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Alfa Romeo Sprint: Alfasud coupe, engines and what to check
Alfa Romeo Sprint — the three-door coupe produced from 1976–1989. Initially called the Alfasud Sprint, it was later simply known as the Sprint. In this article, we look at its versions, engines, and what to check when buying a used Sprint.
Sprint in brief
The Sprint was built on the Alfasud platform: it's a front-wheel-drive compact coupe with a three-door body and a large glass area. Styled by Giorgetto Giugiaro, it remained recognisable throughout its production run.
The Sprint is renowned for its lively handling and distinctive boxer (flat-four) engine, but also for its corrosion issues. Today, it's one of the most beloved Alfa Romeo classics from the 1980s.
How the versions differ
In 1983, the car was updated and renamed the Alfa Romeo Sprint. Later models featured revised trim, rear design, and equipment, but the core concept remained the same.
The sportiest version is the Quadrifoglio Verde (QV), known as the Cloverleaf in some markets. It boasts a more powerful engine and distinctive trim with a green cloverleaf on the wings.
Engines and gearboxes
The Sprint came with boxer-type petrol engines ranging from 1.2–1.3 litres to 1.5 and 1.7 litres. The 1.5-litre Quadrifoglio Verde version had around 105 hp, while the 1.7-litre QV offered around 118 hp. Check the exact figures in the specific car's documents.
The gearbox is a five-speed manual. The Sprint is known for its lively driving experience, and the boxer engine provides a low centre of gravity and an unusual sound.
What to check when buying a used Sprint
First off — rust. Alfasuds are notorious for it: check the sills, front wings, wheel arches, boot lid, and suspension mounting points. Give the body a thorough inspection.
Check the engine: does it run smoothly, are there no oil leaks, and when was the timing belt last changed. The boxer engine needs proper cooling and quality maintenance.
Inspect the brakes — the front brake discs are mounted to the gearbox, making them harder to service. Also, check the electrical equipment and interior details.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.
1,3 / 1,5
Alfasud SprintEarly versions.
- Boxer engine
- Light, lively driving
- Often — basic trim
Veloce
Alfasud SprintSportier version.
- More powerful engine
- Sportier trim
- Often — additional equipment
Quadrifoglio Verde (QV)
SprintSportiest version.
- 1.5 l (around 105 hp) or 1.7 l (around 118 hp)
- Green four-leaf clover on the bonnet
- Often — sporty trim
Sprint po 1983 m.
refreshed SprintRefreshed styling and equipment.
- Refreshed trim and rear end
- Engine choices up to 1.7 l
- Often — better equipment
Comparison of versions
| 1,3 / 1,5 | Veloce | QV 1,5 | QV 1,7 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For daily driving | For sporty driving | For purists of classic cars | For enthusiasts of more powerful sports cars |
| Engine | 1.3–1.5 L | More powerful 1.3–1.5 L | 1.5 L, around 105 HP | 1.7 L, around 118 HP |
| Trim | Base | Sportier | Sport with QV badges | Sport with QV badges |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€ | €€ | €€€ | €€€ |
For most classic car enthusiasts, a well-maintained 1.5 L Sprint will do just fine. QV versions are highly regarded, but some were poorly maintained or rusted out, so the key is to find one with an unrusted body.
Pros
- Lively driving and precise steering response
- Characteristic boxer engine
- Iconic design penned by Giugiaro
- Practical three-door coupe body
Cons
- Corrosion is the biggest issue
- Maintenance and parts can be more expensive
- Old Alfa Romeo electrical quirks
Frequently asked questions
Is the Alfa Romeo Sprint suitable for daily use?
It is, if the car is in good condition, but due to its age and corrosion, it's often considered a second car or a hobby car.
What is the Quadrifoglio Verde?
It's the sporty Alfa Romeo version with the green cloverleaf. In the Sprint model, QV was the most powerful version.
How does the Sprint differ from the Alfasud Sprint?
It's the same model. Until 1983, it was called the Alfasud Sprint, then it received a facelift and was renamed the Sprint.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
