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The Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Panoramica by Zagato Milano.
The Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Panoramica, bodied by Carrozzeria Zagato, is a unique blend of advanced design and flamboyant style elements. This one-of-a-kind vehicle was built on the chassis of the 1933 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Monza, chassis number 2211114, a renowned race car that had endured several crashes during its competitive years. In a remarkable transformation, Zagato incorporated their Panoramica body, a design that utilized Plexiglas for the upper part of the windshield, as well as for the rear and side windows. This innovative approach offered the driver enhanced visibility and provided passengers with a panoramic view, making it a standout feature of the car. The original Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Monza chassis was modified to accommodate a 6C 2500 engine, adding to its performance capabilities. The combination of the powerful engine and the lightweight, aerodynamic Panoramica body created a vehicle that was both visually stunning and exceptionally functional. Built in 1949, this singular specimen was a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Carrozzeria Zagato. However, the car’s journey didn’t end there. Sometime in the 1960s, the Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Panoramica was discovered in Africa. It was later restored and re-bodied to its original “Monza” racing look, bringing it back to its roots as a formidable race car. The Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Panoramica remains a fascinating chapter in automotive history, representing a unique intersection of racing heritage and innovative design. Its Panoramica body not only showcased advanced materials and styling but also provided practical benefits that enhanced the driving experience. This vehicle stands as a tribute to the enduring legacy of Alfa Romeo and the visionary work of Carrozzeria Zagato.
The car with which Zagato inaugurated the “Panoramica” series in 1947 was a Fiat “1100”, characterized by a large and bright passenger compartment, in which the transparent surfaces were expertly made with a mix of crystal and Plexiglas, an experimental material that allowed the curvature.
