New Alfa Romeo Coming to U.S. Shores

The car magazines are reporting that Alfa Romeo will be exporting its stunning new Brera coupe and convertible (the "Spider") to the U.S. Ok, I know this doesn't have much to do with the media or politics -- car magazine journalism? U.S.-Italy relations? world trade? -- but damn, anyone who has seen the movie The Graduate knows that there's nothing like a red Alfa Romeo to stir one's senses, and at an affordable price to boot!

I have a special affinity for Alfa Romeos, since I learned how to drive on a red 1976 Alfetta GT. It was beautiful looking, had a sensuous exhaust growl, drove like it was wired into my brain, and, like many Alfas, did not resemble anything else on the road. Unfortunately, its reliability, especially the wiring and electronic system, was such that it earned the moniker Spaghetti Car. Due to these reliability problems, Alfa was unable to compete with the super-dependable Japanese cars such as the Miata. In the late 80s and early 90s, Alfa tried again with its boxy 164 sedan, but did not fare any better, and, by the mid-90s, Alfa Romeo abandoned the U.S. market.

Hopefully this time, Alfa will have improved its cars' reliability, and its Brera will drive as well and last as long as its dynamic good looks.