Alfa Romeo Arna
The ill-fated fusion of Japanese design and Italian engineering.
- Power
- 63 bhp
- Top speed
- 93 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$7k
About the Alfa Romeo Arna
The Alfa Romeo Arna was the result of a joint venture between Alfa Romeo and Nissan, intended to bypass European import quotas on Japanese cars. It combined the body and rear suspension of the Nissan Cherry (N12) with the flat-four engine and front-end mechanicals of the Alfa Romeo Alfasud. Unfortunately, the collaboration is widely cited as a strategic error, pairing uninspiring Japanese styling with Italian reliability and rust issues. Today, it is a rare curiosity for collectors of 'unloved' classics, with very few examples surviving due to severe corrosion.
Alfa Romeo Arna specs
The Alfa Romeo Arna produces 63 bhp (47 kW) and 88 Nm (65 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 93 mph (150 km/h).
| Make | Alfa Romeo |
|---|---|
| Model | Arna |
| Trim | 1.2 |
| Years | 1983–1987 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Italy |
| Production | About 53,047 built |
| Engine | 1.2-litre flat-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,186 cc (1.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 63 bhp (47 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 88 Nm (65 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 93 mph (150 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 850 kg (1,874 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 74 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Alfa Romeo Arna worth?
A typical Alfa Romeo Arna is estimated to be worth $2,500 – $7,000 (about £1,900 – £5,200).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Alfa Romeo Arna rarity in CarSpot
The Alfa Romeo Arna is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 28 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Alfa Romeo Arna fun facts
- The name 'Arna' is an acronym for Alfa Romeo Nissan Autoveicoli.
- Despite its reputation, the Arna's use of the Alfasud's boxer engine meant it handled significantly better than the standard Nissan Cherry.
- In the UK, the car was also sold through Nissan dealerships as the Nissan Cherry Europe to help Alfa Romeo expand its reach.