When you think of iconic sports cars, Alpine may not be the first name that pops into your head—at least not in recent decades. But over 20 years after its last release, Alpine is back with the A110, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. This sleek, lightweight, mid-engine sports car is not only a beauty to behold, but it’s also shaking up the sports car market in a way that could even give Porsche something to worry about.
The question is, can this new Alpine really go toe-to-toe with the legendary Porsche Cayman? You’re about to find out why the Alpine A110, priced around £50,000, is being hailed as one of the best sports cars on the market today.
Alpine A110 – What’s Under the Hood?
On paper, the Alpine A110 might not seem like a game-changer. It’s powered by a 1.8-liter turbocharged engine, producing a respectable 249 bhp . Yes1,103 kilograms. Yes
Thanks to that low weight, the A110 boasts a 0-62 mph time of just 4.5 seconds, and a top speed of 155 mph. Impressive numbers, but what really sets the Alpine A110 appears
Why Weight Matters More Than Power
From the moment you start driving the Alpine A110, it’s clear that this car was designed by true enthusiasts. The ride feels just right – the double-wishbone suspension is beautifully tuned, and the car moves with an agility that’s hard to describe unless you experience it for yourself. This is where the A110 really shines.
You see, while many car manufacturers are obsessed with squeezing more power into their sports cars, Alpine has taken a different approach. By keeping the car light, they’ve created something that feels nimble and responsive in a way that even some Porsches struggle to match. In fact, the A110 weighs almost 300 kg less than the Porsche Cayman, and trust me, you can feel that difference the moment you hit the road.
The Driving Experience: A Pure Joy
Driving the Alpine A110 is pure bliss, whether you’re on the open road or tackling tight, twisty corners. The steering is light yet incredibly precise, and the car’s balance is impeccable, thanks to its mid-engine layout. Even with its relatively modest power output, the A110 feels fast—faster than you’d expect from 249 bhp.
One interesting choice Alpine made was to equip the A110 with a dual-clutch gearbox instead of a manual transmission. Purists might bemoan the lack of a third pedal, but honestly, the gear changes are so quick and sharp that you won’t miss it. And for those who love to feel fully in control, the gearbox can be switched into full manual mode, allowing you to shift gears using paddles on the steering wheel.
Track Mode: Taking the A110 to the Next Level
Now, let’s talk about Track Mode. Yes, the A110 has a sport mode for when you want to push it a little harder, but it’s Track Mode that truly transforms the car. This setting sharpens the throttle response and gives the exhaust a bit more bite, with pops and bangs on the overrun that will make any enthusiast smile. But the real magic happens when you switch off the ESC (Electronic Stability Control). Suddenly, you’re able to let the rear of the car slide just a little bit more, adding an extra layer of fun to your drive.
Even with ESC off, the A110 feels completely manageable. It’s a sports car that encourages you to push your limits without ever feeling like it’s going to bite back. And the brakes? They’re phenomenal. The lack of weight means you can bring the A110 to a stop on a dime, which only adds to the confidence-inspiring nature of the car.
A Challenger to the Porsche Cayman
The Alpine A110 is being positioned as a serious competitor to the Porsche 718 Cayman, and for good reason. While the Cayman has the pedigree and the prestige, the A110 offers a different kind of driving experience. It’s lighter, more agile, and—dare I say it—more fun to drive on a twisty back road. The Cayman may have more horsepower, but the A110’s balance and lightness make it feel more connected to the driver.
Final Verdict: Should Porsche Be Worried?
In short, yes. The Alpine A110 is an absolute triumph of design and engineering. It’s a car that doesn’t rely on raw power to impress but instead focuses on delivering an experience that’s all about connection, agility, and pure driving pleasure. For £50,000, it’s one of the best sports cars you can buy right now, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it starts turning a lot of heads away from the more established brands like Porsche.
If you’re looking for a car that’s fun to drive, beautifully made, and a little different from the usual suspects, the Alpine A110 should be at the top of your list. It’s a return to form for one of France’s most iconic sports car brands, and if I were Porsche, I’d be paying close attention.
For a full review and to see the Alpine A110 in action, check out our video on our channel! You’ll get to hear that incredible exhaust note and see just how well this car handles on both road and track.