Alpine A110 Legende: Automotive Collection Review

amanico · 2025-12-01T09:17:49Z

Explore amanico's Alpine A110 Légende customization journey, featuring Braid forged rims, a rare Alpine carbon roof, and performance upgrades. Discover expert insights.

amanico

WPS member · Automotive forum

52 replies4029 views1 photos

Amanico's ongoing project to refine his Alpine A110 Légende offers WatchProSite readers a masterclass in automotive customization. This installment, the fifth in a series, details significant upgrades that enhance both performance and aesthetics. Amanico's meticulous approach provides invaluable insights for enthusiasts considering similar modifications to their own vehicles.

If you remember the previous episodes, I first worked on the chassis ( I changed the chassis of the Pure / Legende to get the tougher S set ), then on the engine / exhaust, the brakes, the rims, I found the rear spoiler of the Cup, now I am trying to improve the whole work.

There are some themes which will take some time, such as the suspensions. That chapter will most probably be treated next year. Or the interior, as I have to find the right professional to get what I really want. Some other details are work on progress, but I am nearly touching the end with this new stage of improvements.

So, what are the new changes?

1/ The rims.

If you remember, my first step was to change the original rims for lighter ones, the Fondmetal RR 18, which represents a gain of 7 kilos. I found the ones I will keep, the definitive ones.

A set of Braid forged aluminium rims which are uber light, saving some 12 kilos compared to the original ones! And I came back to a neutral color. I kept the black RR 18 for the track.

The design is quite cool, I must say. Even nicer in real life than in pictures.

2/ The carbon roof:

This is something I wanted for some years, but the availability was somewhere between impossible and problematic.

In the first years of the A 110 production, the carbon roof was available, then it disappeared for the Pure and the Legende, and it became an option for the S version only.

But, a few months ago, I found a solution to get one, and when I say one, I mean a carbon roof coming from Alpine, not an aftermarket! Needless to say that I jumped on the opportunity.

The advantage of a carbon roof? You save two more kilos. And chromatically, it works very well with the grey hue of the body.

3/ The front carbon spoiler:

Same problem as the carbon roof, you can only have the carbon front spoiler if you choose the " Aero option " including what I feel to be a weird rear spoiler. And it is available as an option for the S version only. BUT you can try to order one. The waiting list is worse than for a Rolex Daytona, though.

The surprise of the carbon roof came with another surprise, the front carbon spoiler!

Why is it such a good thing? The behaviour of the A 110, at high speed, is quite lively. It needs some downforce, rear AND front. The rear spoiler solved it, I needed the same solution for the front, and the original front spoiler is really efficient, as I could test it. Especially with all the engine improvements I had!

4/ Carbon central console:

As I am planning some changes in my interior, I started with something I found in the MP REZEAU catalog, MP REZEAU being the provider of competition parts for Alpine and Signatec, a nice looking carbon central console, whose aesthetics is strong, and saving 2, 1 kilos! The price is not crazy, either, so it is a good change.

Before

After ( Photo of the central carbon console in a A110R, provided by the dealer )

Less GT, more " sporty ".

5/ Larger tires:

The original tires are 205/18 for the front, and 235/18 for the rear.

Here, I went 225/18 for the front, and 245/18 for the rear. I didn't change the brand nor the version, the Michelin PS4S. But the original dimensions were a bit limited in grip with the power improvements. I just had to recalibrate the ABS, which is quite easy to do.

Now, the grip is much better, with more " balance ".

6/ Small details:

- A more efficient alternator pulley, the original being a tad too fragile, I don't want to take risks.

- Aluminium undertray lightweight bolt set. Why? The reason is simple: The 80 aluminium " screws " allow you to save 1 kilo! At 150 Euros the set, it would be silly not to get it.

Here we are... Now, the next stage, as previously said, will be the suspensions, lower, lighter, and more efficient, as well as a stunning air intake in aluminium and carbon... A project for next year, as I have to find the right product, and the funds! But I am not far from perfection.

Best,

Nicolas

About the Automotive Ref. 365

The Automotive 365 is a notable reference within the brand's catalog, recognized for its robust construction and focus on performance-oriented design. This model often features a more substantial case and components, distinguishing it from some of the brand's more minimalist offerings. It represents a commitment to durability and a more assertive aesthetic, appealing to collectors who value a watch with a strong presence and engineering integrity.

This reference typically incorporates a stainless steel case, providing a resilient and enduring structure. The movement housed within is a mechanical self-winding caliber, known for its reliability and precision. The crystal protecting the dial is generally sapphire, offering excellent scratch resistance and clarity. The design prioritizes legibility and functional aesthetics, consistent with its intended use.

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Specifications

Caliber: A365

Case: Stainless Steel

Diameter: 42 mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 100m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The Braid forged aluminum rims are a standout modification, significantly reducing unsprung weight by 12 kilograms compared to the original wheels, and are visually striking.
The Alpine-sourced carbon roof, a rare and sought-after component, not only saves an additional 2 kilograms but also complements the car's grey body color chromatically.
While the S-suspension offers a good baseline, there's significant room for improvement, suggesting that future suspension upgrades will further refine the car's handling dynamics.
The author confirms that the next stage of improvements will indeed focus on suspensions and a unique carbon airbox, indicating a continued pursuit of performance enhancements.
The original seats are noted for their comfort, and while the Sabelt R seats offer weight savings, their fixed passenger seat position presents a practical drawback for daily usability.
The project highlights the enjoyment derived from the modification process itself, emphasizing the 'journey as much as the destination' aspect of car ownership and customization.

The Discussion

KMII

Dec 1, 2025

And I am sure it drives that way, too! Thanks for taking us along on the journey - will allow others to potentially follow some of the steps 😊👍🏻

xto

Dec 1, 2025

But I'm not sure that watch lovers know the term 'stop" - or it has a modified meaning

KMII

Dec 1, 2025

Especially since you started from an excellent base already 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

bimbeano

Dec 1, 2025

Those wheels are something WOWOW !!! Your A110 is becoming the real deal and I can't wait to see it in person next year. The carbon roof is a crazy addition as well, although I'm not sure I would spend my moneyed on that (but I am poor so ...), but that carbon front lip is ubernice. So your next move is suspension-wise which is a good decision as I also think the S-suspension can be really improved. So many possibilities here but you need the right people to advise you and set it up. I am sure t

amanico

Dec 1, 2025

I got some help for the carbon roof, price wise. I got it from Alpine but for a much better price. Super hard to find, even as an option, now. Wait for Part 6, I worked on the suspensions and a carbon air box. A crazy one. As for the seats, I can get the R, but the problem is that the pasenger seat is fixed, you cannot set it at all. I am also thinking of getting the front panels of the R, and maybe the rear diffusor. But as you said, first things first... It is already a crazy A 110. See you so

KCLQMULKU

Dec 1, 2025

A car not just for a European tour but a North American one too!

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Alpine A110 Legende: Automotive Collection Review

About the Automotive Ref. 365

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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