1963 Alfa Romeo Giulia TZ
1963 Alfa Romeo Giulia TZ
Brand
Alfa Romeo
Year
1963
Country
Italy
Generation
Giulia (Tipo 105/115)
1963 Alfa Romeo Giulia TZ
Brand
Alfa Romeo
Year
1963
Country
Italy
Generation
Giulia (Tipo 105/115)
About this car
Discover the history
The 1963 Alfa Romeo Giulia TZ, also known as the Tubolare Zagato, is a celebrated icon in the realm of sports cars, renowned for its innovative design, remarkable performance, and racing pedigree. Developed as a successor to the Giulietta SZ, the Giulia TZ was a product of a collaboration between Alfa Romeo, Autodelta (Alfa Romeo’s racing division), and the renowned Italian coachbuilder Zagato.
At the heart of the Giulia TZ was Alfa Romeo’s new Giulia chassis, which featured a lightweight tubular space frame designed by engineer Giuseppe Busso. This innovative frame, combined with an aerodynamic body crafted by Zagato, resulted in a car that weighed just around 650 kg (1,430 lbs). The body, made from aluminum, was designed to minimize drag and enhance stability at high speeds, giving the TZ its distinctive “coda tronca” (cut-off tail) design, which was a revolutionary aerodynamic concept at the time.
Powering the Giulia TZ was a 1.6-liter DOHC inline-four engine, capable of producing 112 horsepower in road-going versions and up to 160 horsepower in racing trim. This engine, paired with a five-speed manual transmission, allowed the TZ to achieve impressive performance figures, including a top speed of approximately 134 mph (216 km/h). The car’s advanced suspension setup featured independent front suspension with double wishbones and a live rear axle with trailing arms and coil springs, ensuring precise handling and agility.
The Giulia TZ’s technical prowess translated seamlessly into its racing success. It made its competitive debut at the 1963 FISA Monza Cup, where it showcased its potential by securing a class victory. This initial triumph was followed by numerous wins and podium finishes in prestigious events, including the Targa Florio, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and the Nürburgring 1000 km. The TZ’s success on the track was a testament to its engineering excellence and the strategic collaboration between Alfa Romeo, Autodelta, and Zagato.
In addition to its technical and performance achievements, the Giulia TZ also left a lasting legacy in automotive design. Its sleek, aerodynamic silhouette and innovative “coda tronca” design influenced sports car aesthetics and aerodynamics for years to come. The car’s combination of lightweight construction, powerful engine, and advanced suspension set a new benchmark in the sports car category.
Overall, the 1963 Alfa Romeo Giulia TZ stands as a symbol of Italian automotive ingenuity and a significant milestone in Alfa Romeo’s storied racing history. Its blend of cutting-edge engineering, striking design, and racing success make it a highly revered classic, celebrated by enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. The Giulia TZ remains a shining example of how collaboration and innovation can create a timeless automotive masterpiece.
