Anonima Lombarda Fabbrica Automobili (A.L.F.A.), which later became Alfa Romeo, was founded in 1910 when Italian co-investors acquired the shares of a French car maker. Production began shortly after on their very first model – the 24HP.
During World War I, engineer Nicola Romeo bought Alfa and changed the name to Alfa Romeo Milano, later dropping the Milano. The first car produced under this new name was the Torpedo 20–30 HP.
Fiat Group Automobiles acquired ownership of Alfa Romeo in 1986, forming part of a larger Italian automobile collaboration between themselves and other brands such as Ferrari and Maserati.
The brand has a long and rich history in motorsport, especially in events such as the Targa Florio and touring car racing. Their domination in the early years of Formula One set a high standard for other manufacturers to follow, while their involvement in other sports series such as endurance racing and rallying is well-documented.