GT6 | Alpine A110 1600S 15th Anniversary Edition 1972 | Special Stage Route 5 Race | PS3

This special model commemorating Gran Turismo's 15th anniversary is based on the amazing A110, one of the best high-performance lightweight vehicles ever. Created by French car maker Alpine, it had few equals. The svelte coupe, which was produced from 1961 to 1977, featured a rear-engine/rear-drive layout (RR) that translated to amazing cornering prowess and incredible traction.

In 1963, the A110 was powered by a 1.1-liter engine, and for the next few years, displacement was incrementally increased. Then in 1968, the 1600S was introduced, equipped with a 1565 cc powerplant that came from the Renault 16. In 1973, this engine was swapped out for a 1605 cc unit from the Renault 17. During this time, the car's handling capabilities saw upgrades as well, going to a double wishbone rear suspension and smaller-diameter tire.

There were many variations to the 1600s, but three models are worth noting: the 1600SC, a French domestic model with twin Weber 45DCOE carburetors; an export version called the 1600SI with fuel injection, and the easy-to-drive 1600SX. The first two models possessed engines that delivered 138 HP/6,000 rpm and mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The top speed for both vehicles was rated at 209 km/h, quite impressive for a car with only a 1600cc engine. The secret was its lightweight nature; it tipped the scales at around 700kg. As for the 1600SX, sold from 1976, it was a tamer model than its predecessors, with a de-tuned engine that produced 93 HP/6,000 rpm, enabling it reach a modest top speed of 190 km/h. That said, the 1600SX was easier to drive and was popular with people with no interest in motorsports.

Speaking of motorsports, the A110 was a successful rally car, winning a number of races in the 1970s. During the 1970-1972 seasons, it participated in the International Championship for Manufacturers, winning several races in Europe. As a result, it was considered one of the greatest rally machines of its day. The A110 remained popular even after its successor, the A310 debuted in 1971. A total of 7160 cars were produced until the end of its production in 1977.

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