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Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 1988 as a prototype shortly after Alfa Romeo was acquired by Fiat, the SZ, known as Sport Zagato, provoked strong reactions from onlookers who either adored or despised it. Responding to this divisive feedback, Fiat opted for a limited production run of just over 1,000 SZ models under the Alfa Romeo badge. Each of these vehicles showcased Alfa Rosso thermoplastic panels bonded to a steel frame, complemented by tan leather interiors and a dark gray rooftop. However, one unit deviated from the norm: the model gifted to Zagato’s top executive, Andrea Zagato, boasting an all-black exterior and interior.
A red model, equipped with a sporty Giuseppe Busso-crafted 3.0-liter V6 engine that produces melodious sounds, is currently up for grabs in San Mateo, California via the online auction platform Collecting Cars. This particular vehicle has accumulated just under 32,000 miles and is a gem. With the bidding nearing its conclusion in three days, the current bid stands at $31,250.
Collecting Cars
“The only advanced feature of this vehicle was a button located on the console, which when pressed, raised the car by 50 mm (around 2”), enabling smooth traversal over uneven road surfaces. Absent of ABS, electronic traction, or stability controls, ‘Il Mostro’ or The Monster, as coined by the media, represented a traditional sports car pushed to the boundaries of standard engineering,” as described by the Lane Motor Museum situated in Nashville, Tennessee.
Able to accelerate from 0-60 in 7 seconds, Il Mostro could also achieve 1.1G in cornering force and surpass 150 miles per hour. The vehicle boasts exceptional aerodynamics with a drag coefficient of 0.30, all while providing sufficient space for luggage behind the two front seats. Consequently, one could partake in races with equipment stowed in the rear and then embark on a weekend retreat.
Recently imported from Japan to the U.S., the SZ underwent thorough maintenance at Dino Motors in San Mateo, maintaining its original 16-inch split-rim alloy wheels fitted with Continental ExtremeContact sport tires. An appealing upgrade is the audio system, which was replaced with a Pioneer Carrozzeria head unit featuring remote control functionality and a USB port.
Utilizing Alfa’s 75 platform, the SZ incorporated materials and tuning inspired by Group A and IMSA racing specifications. Cooling mechanisms for the engine and transaxle were fine-tuned, the engine received enhanced intake and exhaust manifolds, and improvements were made to the valves and camshaft profiles. Ultimately, the SZ engine was capable of generating 210 horsepower, transmitting power to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission.
Back in 1991, the top track on the Billboard charts was “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You” by Bryan Adams. In my personal opinion, the 21st song from that year, “Joyride” by Roxette, better captures this spirit. If you’re in the mood for a joyful excursion in Il Mostro, be prepared for some intense bidding.
Have a suggestion? Feel free to contact the author at kristin.shaw@thedrive.com
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