1962 Alpine A110 Berlinette Dimensions, Size & Specs

Due to its compact coupe design, the Alpine A110 Berlinette offers limited interior space, characteristic of sports cars from the 1960s. The car primarily functions as a two-seater, focusing on driver and passenger comfort over spaciousness. The low height of about 1,200 mm (47.2 inches) creates a cozy cabin environment, while the narrow width of 1,620 mm (63.8 inches) confines the cockpit to essentials. Despite this, the seating arrangement gives occupants a close connection to the road and vehicle controls. The rear area is minimal, not designed for passengers, but can accommodate limited luggage.

The Alpine A110 Berlinette is renowned for its lightweight construction, tipping the scales at about 640 to 700 kg (1,411 to 1,543 lbs), depending on the version. This low curb weight was achieved through the use of fiberglass body panels and a compact chassis design. The lightweight nature enhances acceleration, handling, and braking, making it a formidable competitor in rally events. This emphasis on weight reduction was a pioneering approach in the 1960s, allowing the Alpine A110 to achieve excellent power-to-weight ratio and agility despite modest engine outputs.

The Alpine A110 Berlinette has a wheelbase measuring approximately 2,250 mm (88.6 inches), which contributes to its nimble handling and stability in corners. The ground clearance is relatively low, typical of sports coupes, but specific figures vary slightly depending on suspension setup and tires. The lower ride height allows for better aerodynamics and a lower center of gravity, improving driving dynamics. The compact wheelbase and precise suspension tuning complement the car’s responsiveness, especially in rally environments where quick directional changes are essential.

Yes, the Alpine A110 Berlinette easily fits into a standard garage. With a length of roughly 3,970 mm (156.3 inches) and width of 1,620 mm (63.8 inches), it is smaller than most modern vehicles, securing enough clearance for maneuvering. A typical residential garage, generally around 6,000 mm (236 inches) in length and 3,000 mm (118 inches) in width, can comfortably accommodate the A110. Its low height of 1,200 mm (47.2 inches) means it has ample vertical clearance, making it easy to park and store indoors without issues.

Prior to the A110 Berlinette, Alpine produced the A106, which was also a small sports coupe but slightly less refined. The A110 Berlinette grew modestly in overall dimensions compared to the A106, offering improved interior packaging and stability. While the A110 maintained compact and lightweight characteristics similar to its predecessor, enhancements in length, width, and wheelbase—though subtle—improved handling and road presence. These dimensional updates allowed the A110 Berlinette to establish itself as a more modern and competitive sports coupe in the evolving rally and sports car market of the 1960s.

Compared to similar 1960s sports coupes like the Fiat 850 Coupe, Porsche 911 (early models), or the Mini Cooper S, the Alpine A110 Berlinette stands out for its exceptional lightness and compact dimensions. While many contemporaries had longer or wider bodies, the A110’s length of roughly 3,970 mm (156.3 inches) and weight around 640-700 kg (1,411-1,543 lbs) made it one of the most agile and lightweight options available. Its fiberglass body contributed to significant weight savings compared to steel-bodied competitors. This lightweight and compact build were critical to its success in motorsport and contributed to its iconic driving feel.

The Alpine A110 Berlinette typically features a fuel tank capacity of approximately 40 liters (10.6 US gallons). This tank size was adequate for the car's lightweight profile and efficient 4-cylinder engines, allowing for reasonable range and easy refueling during rally stages or road use. The relatively small tank helped keep the car's weight down while balancing driving range and performance needs.

The Alpine A110 Berlinette features a tubular steel backbone chassis combined with lightweight fiberglass body panels. This innovative construction method was pivotal in keeping the weight low while maintaining structural rigidity and durability. The fiberglass bodywork was produced by French coachbuilders and allowed Alpine to create elegant and distinctive aerodynamic shapes. This construction type also simplified repairs and modifications, key advantages that helped the model perform competitively in rallying and sports car racing.

The Alpine A110 Berlinette's small size and lightweight design directly contribute to its renowned agility, acceleration, and cornering capabilities. Its compact dimensions enable quick directional changes and easier navigation through tight roads, especially favored in rally racing conditions. The lightweight, between 640 and 700 kg (1,411 to 1,543 lbs), enhances the power-to-weight ratio, allowing even modestly powered engines to deliver spirited performance. Lower inertia aids braking efficiency and reduces tire wear. Collectively, these benefits made the A110 Berlinette a legendary competitor on the motorsport stage during the late 1960s and early 1970s.