Touring Aero 3: A Modern Tribute to Alfa Romeo Classics

SuperBEAST - In the world of automotive craftsmanship, where tradition meets innovation, a new model emerged in 2020 that captivated enthusiasts and collectors alike. This car, known as the Touring Aero 3, is a remarkable creation by the Italian coachbuilder company, Touring Superleggera. Rooted in the legacy of the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta, the Aero 3 blends modern design with a touch of retro flair, showcasing an aesthetic that is not just visually striking but also enhances the vehicle's performance.

2020 Touring Aero 3 visually displays the nuances of a modern combination with retro, and not only gives an attractive appearance, but also affects the car's performance. (Picture from: DriveTribe)

Touring Superleggera, a Milan-based company, has a storied history dating back to 1926. Over the decades, it has become renowned for its work on various European cars, partnering with prestigious automotive brands like Aston Martin, BMW, and Alfa Romeo. However, the company’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. After ceasing operations in 1966, Touring Superleggera made a comeback in 2008 under new management, continuing to innovate and create unique designs that stand out in the automotive world.

2020 Touring Aero 3 posed along with 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B Le Mans Speciale (Touring), its inspiration source. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)

The inspiration behind the Aero 3 lies in the race cars of the 1930s and 1950s. Each unit of the Aero 3 is a masterpiece, taking approximately 5,000 hours to craft, with Touring Superleggera planning to produce only 15 units. Despite its roots in the Ferrari F12, the Aero 3 retains the F12’s silhouette while incorporating design elements that showcase the company’s expertise in aerodynamics. The use of wind tunnel testing ensures that the Aero 3 performs at its best, with its design carefully honed for optimal aerodynamic efficiency.

2020 Touring Aero 3's interior covered in red combined with detailed aluminum and carbon fiber trim, and Foglizzo genuine leather. (Picture from: Oto.com)

When examining the Aero 3, one can’t help but notice its resemblance to some of Touring Superleggera’s previous models, particularly in the front with its three separate framed openings. The overall shape of the Aero 3, however, leans towards a more trapezoidal design. A distinctive feature is the central grille, which bears a resemblance to Alfa Romeo’s iconic triangular design, yet this car was developed independently, with no direct collaboration with Alfa Romeo. The two side openings further emphasize the car’s sporty nature, directing air into the engine bay and the front wheel arches for improved performance.

1952 Alfa Romeo 1900 C52 Disco Volante. (Picture from: Trussty)

1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B Le Mans
Speciale (Touring). (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

The rear of the Aero 3 is equally captivating, featuring a rounded stern with slanted horizontal lights, reminiscent of the Alfa Romeo Disco Volante, a car first introduced in 1952 and later updated in 2013 and 2016. One of the most striking elements of the Aero 3’s design is the massive fin that extends from the middle of the car to the rear, continuing down to the diffuser. This design choice gives the car a vintage feel while also necessitating the removal of the rear window. To compensate, a camera system is installed, ensuring that reversing and parking are both safe and straightforward.

To achieve a lighter weight, almost all the Aero 3’s body elements are crafted from carbon fiber, reducing its weight by up to 150 kg, even though it is 200 mm longer than its Ferrari counterpart. The lightweight body is mounted on the Ferrari F12’s aluminum chassis, along with the electrical system. According to Louis de Fabribeckers, the Chief Designer for Touring Superleggera, the natural integration of the tear-shaped cabin does not directly enhance airflow, but it evokes memories of Touring’s aerodynamic achievements dating back to the 1930s.

2020 Touring Aero 3 is powered by a Ferrari's wild 6.3 liter V12 engine capable of producing 740 PS of power at 8,250 rpm and 689 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. (Picture from: Oto.com)

Under the hood, the Aero 3 is powered by Ferrari’s formidable 6.3-liter V12 engine, capable of producing 740 PS at 8,250 rpm and 689 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. This powerful engine is paired with a 7-speed sequential automatic gearbox with paddle shifts, delivering power to the wheels with precision. The performance of the Aero 3 is truly impressive, with the ability to accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in just 3.1 seconds, and a top speed of 339 kph.

2020 Touring Aero 3's back has the rounded stern combined with slanted horizontal lights, and the presence of the exhaust holes that wrapped with the square obtuse-angled frames. (Picture from: Motor1)

The unit featured in the article is painted in Stratosphere Red, the same color used on the 2013 Disco Volante. On the side of the Aero 3’s body, the number 19 is prominently displayed, referencing the long-nosed race car Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B LM Coupe Berlinetta Aerodinamica, which raced at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1938. The interior is equally luxurious, with the same hue extending inside, complemented by detailed aluminum and carbon fiber trim, and genuine leather from Foglizzo.

Although Touring Superleggera has introduced the Aero 3, the company has yet to disclose the price for each unit. Given the car’s detailed craftsmanship and the option for customization, it’s safe to say that the price will likely reach into the seven-digit range. Despite this, the Milan-based company has already sold three units of the Aero 3. So, the question remains: are you ready to join the exclusive club of Aero 3 owners? *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOMOBILEMAG | CARSTYLING.RU | AUTOEVOLUTION ]

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