The launch of the Alfa Romeo 4C is gradually beginning in the United States as the first 500 units reach the dealerships. These are called, appropriately enough, the “Launch Edition” models and cost more than the normal models, which will hit the showrooms in fall.

The Launch version of Alfa Romeo 4C US-Spec will cost from $68,400 USD and comes with special features such as special wheels, a magnificent sport exhaust system, xenon lights, sports seats, sport suspension, rear spoiler, and unique colors including Madreperla White, Rosso Competizione and Rosso Alfa.

If you can do without this stuff, and are also willing to wait till fall, you can get a basic 4C for $53,900 USD. All version of the car are powered by the now famous 1,750 cc turbo four-pot, developing 240 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, averaging 28 mpg. The only transmission choice is a seven-speed dual-clutch.

All Alfa Romeo 4C US-Spec models are also significantly heavier than the Euro version, owing to the extra safety gear the car has to feature to be legal in America. The weight difference is about 150 kg (approximately 300 lbs), which is rather significant. It is like having a very fat person permanantly in the passenger seat.

Alfa 4C is not a very practical car, either. The bonnet, or trunk, does not open, and the only cargo space you get is a small tray behind the engine. It is also quite cramped inside. But despite all its shortcomings, the 4c is a magical car, both to look and to drive. It is a pure sports car. It is not supposed to be practical anyway.