The DTM or the German Touring Car Championships
continues to enjoy a worldwide popularity among the racing buffs. Its
exciting competitions performed by highly tuned 2.5 liter machines are
often called the pinnacle of the world's touring car events.
In 1996, this popular series was re-established as
the International Touring Car Championships (ITC), with races held not
only in Europe, but also in Brazil and Japan. The famous Italian car
manufacturer Alfa Romeo has been one of the principal figures in the
series since its first entry back in 1993. For the 1996 season, their
155 V6 TI was further souped up and a total of eight cars were entered
from three different racing teams. Its high revving V6 cylinder engine
was said to yield an awesome 450 plus horsepower output. This tremendous
power was transmitted to all four wheels via a semi-automatic 6-speed
transmission and electronically controlled front, rear and center
differentials. The four wheel double wishbone suspension was equipped
with horizontally mounted shock absorbers activated by pushrods. The
exterior, although retaining some of the original appearance, underwent
numerous aerodynamic and weight saving refinements.
The
Martini sponsored 155 V6 TI's were piloted by the talented drivers N.
Larini and A. Nannini. With its eye-catching color scheme and aggressive
performance, the Martini Alfa Romeo 155 V6 TI pleased the racing fans
throughout the 1996 ITC season