1990 ALFA ROMEO SZ ZAGATO **KEY words** * FERRARI * LAMBORGHINI * LANCIA * FIAT

Also known as Il Mostro in Italy, and revered as one of the most exotic Alfa Romeos produced in the modern age.

This 1990 Alfa Romeo SZ is an extremely early example of just 1,036 coupes produced. With only 32500 kilometers or 20300 miles clocked since new, it is incredibly well preserved nearly thirty years later. Never sold in North America can be imported to the U.S eligible under the 25 year classic car exemption rule.A stunning example, with very low mileage in superb condition.

In 1990 the distribution of the SZ got under way with 289 cars produced. 1991 was to be last production year for the SZ. The final 736 cars left the factory, making the grand total for the SZ 1,036 produced cars (of which 38 were prototype and pre-production cars destined to be scrapped, but some of them are still existant)

The powertrain of the SZ features an all alloy 3-liter Alfa Romeo V6 and a 5-speed transaxle. The rev happy Alfa V6 produces 207 HP and is a joy to experience.

The SZ featured some unique technical details. Handling is outstanding, as the chassis was tuned by Giorgio Pianta, engineer with Abrath racing and Alfa Corse, and team manager of the Fiat and Lancia rally teams. Many suspension components were taken directly from the Alfa 75 IMSA racer. Weight distribution is near the ideal 50/50 front / rear.

This combination produced outstanding performance and the SZ can sustain over 1.1 G in cornering on road tires, and up to 1.4 G with race rubber.This remains excellent performance even by today's standards.