The classic DOHC Alfa engine, remarkably similar to those still in production over 75 years later. Designer Vittorio Jano would work for Alfa, Lancia, Ferrari and others over his long career.

The 8C/2300 Alfa, which followed in 1931, was purpose built from the beginning as a "super sportscar". (S/N 2111012 was on display). The eight-cylinder DOHC engine was "split" in the middle to accommodate the supercharger drive and to lessen the strain on the crankshaft. The block was now in alloy, the 2336cc displacement having maximum output at 165hp at 5,400rpm, with top speed at 140mph.

The last word in pre-war Alfa Romeos is perhaps the 1931 Tipo B, or more well known as the P3, popularly succeeding Alfa's previous Grand Prix cars in name. It was based on the 8C/2300 two-seat Monza, but racing had become so fierce to the extent that the traditional two seats were done away with and Jano built a "monoposto". The engine was enlarged to 2,654cc with 215hp at 5,600rpm and the exhaust/outlet flow reversed with the exhaust pipes on the right hand side.

The Tipo B was developed in 1932, with a 2600cc engine, and a narrow, elegant body. Later Tipo Bs were equipped with 2900 cc engines. The 1934-35 Tipo B Monoposto all had 2900cc engines and a wider body. (S/N 5005)

To lessen the load of unsprung weight on the rear axle, Jano devised a unique system. The differential gears were positioned rear of the four-speed gearbox, just in front of the driver's seat. From here, the power is transmitted to each rear wheel through torque tubes. The Y shaped drive train is unique, to say the least.

The most impressive victory for the P3 must be the 1935 German GP at the Nurburgring where Nuvolari took on the might of the Mercedes and Auto Union teams which were government sponsored. There were plenty of representatives from the sponsors as well, watching the race. Nuvolari started fifth on the grid but caught and passed the mighty German cars for a great upset win on the mountainous circuit.