Vittorio Jano was the
extremely talented engineer who was largely responsible for the era of terrific
racing success that started for Alfa Romeo in 1925 when his Alfa Romeo P2 won
the inaugural World Grand Prix championship. Jano came to Alfa Romeo by way of
the car manufacturer Rapid and then to Fiat in 1911 and then Alfa in1923. The
engine that he designed for Alfa, the model 8C 2300, was pivotal in Alfa’s
winning ways. It had light alloy construction, hemispherical combustion
chambers, centrally located plugs, two rows of overhead valves with overhead
cams all force feed with twin gear driven supercharges. The only thing missing from being a completely modern engine
is electronic fuel injection.
In 1932 the 8C 2300
became a dominant force, winning at Targa Florio followed by Alfa’s second of
four consecutive victories at Le Mans. It was undefeated at the Grand Prix
circuit, defeating the powerful but heavy Mercedes SSK and SSKL models and bringing
an end to their dominance. It achieved many prestigious victories such as the
Spa 24 Hours and the Monaco Grand Prix.
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In 1931 this No.16 car was driven by Lord Earl Howe and
Sir Henry Birkin to first place in Alfa's first trip to Le Mans
Their is some debate as to wether this is the 1931 winner #16.
The fenders do not match but the windshield
and the goofy headlight covers do.
This is believed to be the number 8 car that was
driven to victory by Sommer and Chinetti in 1932.
This number 11 car is the same chassis as the 8 car.
It was the winner in 1933 with drivers Sommer and Nuvolari
and 2nd in 1933 with Franco Cortese and Giovanni Battista Guidotti
Four Alfa Romeo 6C 1750s were entered at Le Mans.
placing 4th in 1932, 8th and 18th DNF in 1933
and 6th in 1935 and 30th in 1934.
A look at the 8C 2300 power plant
No airbag here. They were brave men.
The Alfa Romeo 8C 2300LM (Le Mans) is
listed as being the winning car in 1931,
the 1st, 2nd and 12th car in 1932 and 30th in 1934.
Below is a series of photos of a 8C 2300LM.
Note how the fenders match the ones
in the photo of the 1931 No.16 car. (top)
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