Alfa Romeo 1900C Gazzella

Vehicle Overview

The Alfa Romeo 1900C Gazzella by Carrozzeria Boneschi is a fascinating and lesser-known example of the creativity and diversity of designs based on the Alfa Romeo 1900 platform. Boneschi, a Milanese coachbuilder with a reputation for innovative and sometimes unconventional designs, created a small production run of the 1900C Gazzella in 1953. This model was an evolution of Boneschi’s earlier work, which included crafting bespoke Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 sedans for prominent political figures of the era. The Gazzella featured styling that reflected Boneschi’s penchant for clean lines and modernity, while remaining true to the sporty yet practical ethos of the Alfa Romeo 1900. The name “Gazzella,” meaning gazelle, evoked agility and elegance, qualities that the 1900C platform and Boneschi’s design aimed to embody. Though it was produced in small numbers, the Gazzella left an indelible mark, standing out as a unique interpretation of Alfa Romeo’s first unibody car. One notable moment in the Gazzella’s history was its use during the 1953 Giro d’Italia, one of Italy’s most prestigious cycling races. A specially prepared Alfa Romeo 1900C Gazzella served as the tour management vehicle for the event, showcasing its practicality and adaptability in a high-profile role. The car was sponsored by the Gazzetta dello Sport, Italy’s leading sports newspaper and the organizer of the race. This collaboration between Boneschi, Alfa Romeo, and the Gazzetta dello Sport not only highlighted the Gazzella’s design but also connected it to Italy’s rich culture of sports and automotive excellence. Today, the Alfa Romeo 1900C Gazzella remains an intriguing piece of automotive history, representing Boneschi’s craftsmanship and the versatility of the Alfa Romeo 1900 platform. Its association with the Giro d’Italia and its rarity make it a collectible vehicle that embodies a unique blend of design, performance, and historical significance.