1984 Alpine GTA Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Alpine GTA weighs approximately 1,000 to 1,100 kilograms (2,205 to 2,425 pounds), depending on the exact model and equipment. This relatively light weight for a coupe contributes significantly to its nimble handling and responsive driving dynamics. The lightweight construction, partly achieved through the use of composite materials and aluminum components, allows better acceleration, braking, and cornering capabilities compared to heavier competitors of its era. This is crucial for a sports coupe, as it makes the driving experience more engaging and efficient.

The Alpine GTA features a wheelbase of roughly 2,430 mm (95.7 inches). This wheelbase length strikes a balance between agility and stability. A moderate wheelbase like this helps the car maintain sharp and responsive handling characteristics, which is desirable for a sports coupe. At the same time, it allows for decent ride comfort by providing a stable platform that absorbs road imperfections well. The hybrid balance between compactness and stability supports the GTA’s reputation as a nimble but comfortable vehicle for spirited driving.

The Alpine GTA coupe offers a modest cargo capacity, with storage space mainly in the rear hatchback area. The cargo volume is approximately 190 to 220 liters (6.7 to 7.8 cubic feet) with rear seats in place, making it enough for daily necessities, small luggage, or groceries. Folding the rear seats increases the usable cargo space, enhancing versatility for weekend getaways or light hauling. While not designed as a pure utility car, it offers reasonable practicality for a sports coupe of its time, balancing performance and everyday usability.

Yes, the Alpine GTA comfortably fits into a standard residential garage. Given its length of 4,310 mm (approximately 14.1 feet), width of 1,740 mm (5.7 feet), and height of 1,140 mm (3.7 feet), it is well within the size limitations of typical single-car garages, which usually accommodate vehicles up to about 6 meters (19.7 feet) in length and 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in width. Its relatively low height also ensures ample clearance in most garages. This makes parking convenient for owners without requiring specialty garage dimensions.

The Alpine GTA is an evolution of earlier models like the Alpine A310, which was larger and heavier. Compared to the Alpine A310, the GTA is slightly more compact and lighter. For example, the A310 had a length close to 4,200 mm (165.4 inches), width around 1,720 mm (67.7 inches), and weighed roughly 1,200 kilograms (2,646 pounds). The GTA’s more refined aerodynamics and reduced weight improve performance and efficiency. Overall, the GTA's reduced size and weight represent a deliberate move towards making the car more agile and competitive within the sports coupe segment.

Compared to other mid-1980s sports coupes like the Porsche 944 and the BMW 3 Series coupe, the Alpine GTA is relatively compact. For instance, the Porsche 944 measures about 4,240 mm (167 inches) in length and 1,720 mm (67.7 inches) in width, while the Alpine GTA is slightly longer and wider, providing a similar footprint. The BMW E30 coupe is larger, with a length of around 4,325 mm (170.3 inches) and width near 1,640 mm (64.6 inches). The GTA’s lower height (1,140 mm) gives it a more aggressive, sleek stance compared to these competitors, emphasizing its sporty focus.

The Alpine GTA’s interior is designed to accommodate four occupants, though the rear seats are best suited for children or short trips due to limited legroom and headroom. Front seats offer a snug, sporty fit with good lateral support, reinforcing the driving-focused nature of the vehicle. Headroom and legroom in the front seats are adequate for average-sized adults, with an emphasis on maintaining a low driving position. Overall interior dimensions prioritize driver engagement and a compact cockpit feel, which might not suit those requiring spacious interiors but fits the car’s performance mindset well.

The ground clearance of the Alpine GTA is relatively low, approximately 120 mm (4.7 inches), which is typical for sports coupes designed for improved aerodynamics and handling. This low clearance provides enhanced stability and reduces air resistance at higher speeds, improving performance and fuel efficiency. However, it can pose challenges on rough roads, speed bumps, or steep driveways, requiring cautious driving to avoid scraping the underbody. For everyday drivability, owners need to be mindful of terrain, but the trade-off benefits overall sporty dynamics.

The Alpine GTA’s design emphasizes lightweight construction, low height, and a balanced sized footprint that supports its sporty credentials. With a length of 4,310 mm, width of 1,740 mm, and low overall height, the coupe exudes aerodynamic efficiency. The relatively compact size reduces weight, achieving around 1,000-1,100 kg, allowing the smaller displacement engines to deliver lively performance. The dimensions are optimized to provide nimble handling and a driver-focused cockpit, making it a pure sports car rather than a grand tourer. This size and design philosophy is key to the GTA's enduring appeal in the sports coupe segment.