1983 Alfa Romeo 33 (905) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Alfa Romeo 33 (905) is designed as a compact hatchback capable of seating up to five passengers comfortably. Despite its smaller exterior dimensions, the 33 ingeniously maximizes interior space through its efficient layout. The hatchback configuration allows for flexible cargo space, with rear seats that can fold down to increase the luggage area significantly, accommodating larger items when needed. Headroom and legroom in both front and rear seats are optimized, but due to its compact nature, taller passengers might find rear seating slightly tight on long journeys. Overall, the Alfa Romeo 33 balances passenger comfort with practical cargo versatility within its compact footprint.

The Alfa Romeo 33 (905) hatchback has an approximate curb weight of around 1,000 to 1,050 kilograms (2,205 to 2,315 pounds), depending on the specific trim and equipment. This relatively light weight contributes to the car’s agile handling and responsive driving dynamics, which are hallmarks of Alfa Romeo vehicles. The lighter mass also aids fuel efficiency, making the 33 economical to run compared to heavier competitors. Its weight also allows for quicker acceleration and more nimble cornering, enhancing the driving experience, especially in city traffic and winding roads. Overall, the low curb weight is a critical factor in the car's balance between performance and efficiency.

The Alfa Romeo 33 (905) is designed as a compact hatchback with a width of approximately 1,630 millimeters (64.2 inches), which makes it well-suited to fit inside a standard residential garage. Most typical garages in Europe and North America have widths ranging from 2,400 to 3,000 millimeters (7.9 to 9.8 feet), so the 33 leaves ample clearance on the sides for doors to open and for safe maneuvering. Its length of 3,890 millimeters (153.1 inches) and height of 1,370 millimeters (53.9 inches) also fit comfortably within standard garage dimensions. Therefore, owners need not worry about space constraints when parking this model in typical home garages.

The Alfa Romeo 33 (905) replaced the older Alfa Romeo Alfasud model, which it succeeded in the market. Compared to the Alfasud, the 33 (905) features a slightly more modern and compact design, with its length around 3,890 millimeters (153.1 inches), which is similar but generally stays more space-efficient internally. Width and height measurements are relatively comparable, preserving the compact footprint admired in the Alfasud but refining aerodynamics and styling. The 33 (905) also improved weight distribution and chassis dynamics compared to its predecessor, making it more agile. Overall, the 33 generation is an evolution rather than a radical size change, offering refined dimensions and improved usability.

In comparison to other compact hatchbacks of the 1980s, such as the Volkswagen Golf Mk2, Ford Fiesta Mk2, and Peugeot 205, the Alfa Romeo 33 (905) is reasonably competitive in size. Its length of roughly 3,890 millimeters (153.1 inches) places it slightly shorter than the Golf Mk2 (about 4,050 mm) but comparable to the Ford Fiesta and Peugeot 205 models, which typically range between 3,700 to 3,900 millimeters. Width at 1,630 millimeters (64.2 inches) is modest, reflecting typical hatchback dimensions aimed at city driving and ease of parking. The Alfa Romeo 33 distinguished itself with a focus on sportier dynamics and style, maintaining compactness while delivering a spirited driving experience within this competitive segment.

The Alfa Romeo 33 (905) provides a reasonably practical cargo space given its compact class hatchback design. With the rear seats in place, the luggage capacity is adequate for everyday use, typically around 290 to 350 liters (about 10.2 to 12.4 cubic feet) of storage, enough for grocery shopping or small luggage. More importantly, the rear seats are foldable, allowing owners to expand the cargo area significantly when needed, accommodating larger items like sports equipment or furniture pieces. This folding rear seat flexibility adds a practical dimension to the car, making it suitable not only for commuting but also for weekend trips involving bulkier cargo.

The Alfa Romeo 33 (905) stands at approximately 1,370 millimeters (53.9 inches) in height, which contributes to its relatively low-slung and sporty profile. From a driving perspective, this height provides a favorable center of gravity, enhancing vehicle stability and handling characteristics. However, the lower roofline can slightly limit headroom for taller passengers, especially in the rear seats. Regarding visibility, the hatchback design and window placement generally offer good outward views for both the driver and passengers, although the lower overall height compared to taller vehicles like SUVs means the driver’s eye level is closer to that of other cars, improving a more engaged and connected driving experience but potentially reducing overall road command in heavy traffic.

The Alfa Romeo 33 (905) represented a focused update following the lineage of the Alfasud, offering several improvements that enhanced its appeal. It featured better rustproofing and build quality compared to earlier models, addressing previous durability concerns. Suspension and chassis were refined to provide sharper handling, and engine choices were improved to offer better performance and efficiency. Additionally, the design was updated to a more modern and aerodynamic shape while maintaining the compact size. Interior ergonomics and comfort elements were also upgraded, making the 33 more competitive and enjoyable relative to earlier Alfa Romeo compact hatchbacks.

The Alfa Romeo 33 (905) measures roughly 1,630 millimeters (64.2 inches) in width and 3,890 millimeters (153.1 inches) in length, dimensions that are well-suited to urban driving conditions. Its relatively narrow width allows easy navigation through tight city streets and traffic lanes. The compact length makes parking in small spaces more manageable, advantageous in crowded city centers where parking is at a premium. Visibility and turning radius benefit from its size, making it agile for quick maneuvers and parallel parking. Therefore, the 33’s dimensions contribute significantly to its reputation as a practical yet sporty hatchback for everyday urban use.