Alfa Romeo is an Italian car company with a long history in racing and a reputation for producing some of Europe's most luxurious vehicles, according to the company It was founded by a French businessman in 1910, in Milan, Italy. The name is an acronym, standing for Anonima Lombarda Fabbrica Automobili. Nicola Romeo, a businessman from Naples, added his name when he acquired the company during World War I and saved it from extinction. Alfa Romeo's success in racing, included victories at Le Mans, Formula 1, the Vanderbilt Cup, and many others. The achievements can be partially attributed to the car's lighter weight, superior handling, and durability. Those characteristics have been carried over to the production cars. Which are manufactured in Italy, but sold around the world.