The Alfa Romeo SZ (Sprint Zagato) is a high-performance limited-production sports car built between 1989 and 1991 with partnership of Centro Stile Zagato, Centro Stile Alfa Romeo and Centro Stile Fiat. "The Monster", like it was nicknamed by the press because of its extreme looks and amazing driving potential, is an unique car.
Unveiled as the ES-30 prototype in the 1989 Geneva Motor Show, it was styled by Alfa Romeo Design and Robert Opron, but built at Zagato. The bodyparts were made of glassfibre composite plastic. Mechanically and engine-wise, the car was based on the Alfa Romeo 75. Powered by a 3.0 L light alloy V6 producing 210 hp. 5-speed manual. Able to sustain over 1.1 G in cornering. Top speed was at least 245 kph and it can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in 7 seconds.
The two-seater hard roof version also saw a convertible version, the RZ (for Roadster Zagato), produced from 1992 until December 1994. Although almost identical to look at, the two cars had completely different body panels save for the front wings and boot.
Only one official colour scheme was available: Red ("Rosso Alfa") with grey roof, Tan leather interior. One in black, with dark tinted mirror glass, for Andrea Zagato. Only 1036 SZs were produced. It is one of the most collectable Alfa Romeo's, due to its rarity, extreme looks and Zagato pedigree. (wikipedia, ritzsite.nl & classicpark.nl)
1989 Alfa Romeo ES-30 Prototype
(Photos from petrolicious.com,wallpaperup.com, classicpark.nl,
oldiesfan67.canalblog.com & atowp.ru)
