I was recently at the AROC National Convention in Ogden, UT, where I gave a presentation about the evolution of Sports Car Market.

Getting there and back involved a 2,000-mile trip in our 35-year-old 1991 Alfa Romeo Spider S4 automatic. But that’s a story for later.

During my presentation, I explained that after my stroke I had to rethink my collection of seven Alfas. I could no longer operate a clutch, which meant that I could no longer drive some cars I loved. Hence the automatic S4.

Someone asked, “What about a Milano automatic? Or a 4C?”

The Milano was a non-starter. I don’t need a four-door sedan.

But the mention of the 4C got me thinking.

Our 2006 Lotus Elise is my all-time favorite sports car. It’s mid-engine, rear-wheel drive, weighs around 2,000 pounds and has 190 horsepower. There isn’t much between you and what the car is doing.

But it has a 6-speed manual and I can’t operate the clutch.

The Alfa 4C follows much the same formula: mid-engine, rear-wheel drive, light weight and very little in creature comforts. Most important, it has a dual-clutch 6-speed transmission so I could drive it.

A 4C coupe probably wouldn’t work for me, just as I could never easily get into the Elise with its hardtop installed. But a Spider is another matter.

Then there’s the money. Good Elises and 4C Spiders currently live in roughly the same $40k–$50k neighborhood.

So, today’s question: Does it make sense to sell my favorite sports car — one I can no longer drive — and replace it with this Alfa in pursuit of much of the same experience?

What do you think? I look forward to reading your opinions below.

Read my previous blog posts here.

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