The first Alfa cars were produced in 1910; designed by Giuseppe Merosi they were powered by a 4.1 litre engine. The Romeo tag was added in 1920, in recognition of the input of Nicola Romeo who switched production to military hardware during the First World War. The era of the Alfa Romeo car had now begun. Even before Romeo's involvement the company had enjoyed success in motor racing. This was to continue with "Alfa Romeo" badged cars. In fact Alfa Romeo won the first ever Grand Prix World Championship with its P2 racing model. In 1928, following the end of its defence contracts, Alfa Romeo ran into financial difficulties and had to be rescued by Benito Mussolini's government. During this period the company produced cars for the luxury market and in 1931 rolled out the Alfa Romeo 8C, which had appeal as a luxury sports car as well as on the race track. A modern version of the 8C was launched in 2007, known as the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione. Nearly new Competizione 8Cs command six figure sums from eager would-be owners. Following the end of the Second World War Alfa Romeo continued to be a major force in the world of motor sport. Giuseppe Farina became the inaugural Formula One champion in 1950 as part of the Alfa Romeo SpA team. Alfa Romeo had been previously been renowned for its production of luxury cars, but during the 1960s began to concentrate on smaller models, such as the 2600 Sprint GT. Used Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint Speciales are much sought after today by enthusiasts who are prepared to pay high prices to own one. Alfa Romeo's success has been to produce quality cars for both the racetrack and the road going market. Alfa Romeo will always be hailed as being the company that produced the first ever F1 championship car.