The story of Zagato Milano
The 1910s: Aeronautics Ugo Zagato was born in Gavello, near Rovigo, on June 25, 1890. He began his coachbuilding career in 1919 when he…
The 1992 Alfa Romeo RZ by Zagato: the roadster version of the SZ.
The Alfa Romeo RZ by Zagato, introduced in 1991, was a rare and striking roadster variant of the Alfa Romeo SZ (Sprint Zagato) coupe. Both models were based on the platform of the Alfa Romeo 75, specifically utilizing its 3.0-liter V6 engine. Initially launched in 1989, the SZ was Alfa Romeo’s flagship 2-door GT, designed by Zagato. While it was not an immediate success, it gained a following for its remarkable handling, neutral driving dynamics, spacious cockpit, and well-appointed interior. The RZ, short for “Roadster Zagato,” was even rarer than its coupe counterpart, with only 278 units produced. Production of the RZ began in 1992, during a time when the market for limited-series sports cars was in decline. As a result, despite its unique design and exclusive nature, the RZ struggled commercially. Additionally, by the early ’90s, the 3.0-liter V6 engine, which had once been considered powerful, was seen as underwhelming for a high-performance sports car. Despite these challenges, the Alfa Romeo RZ retained the qualities that made the SZ appealing—its sharp handling and neutral behavior, thanks to its well-engineered chassis and suspension system. The car featured a luxurious interior and a distinctive, angular design typical of Zagato’s bold styling language. Each of the 278 cars was uniquely numbered, with a special plaque placed on the central tunnel near the gear lever, adding to its exclusivity. Although the Alfa Romeo RZ did not achieve commercial success, it remains a sought-after collector’s item today. Its rarity, along with the distinctive Zagato styling and Alfa Romeo heritage, makes it a fascinating piece of automotive history from a transitional period for sports car manufacturing.
The 1910s: Aeronautics Ugo Zagato was born in Gavello, near Rovigo, on June 25, 1890. He began his coachbuilding career in 1919 when he…
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