1971 Alfa Romeo Tipo 33/TT/3
1971 Alfa Romeo Tipo 33/TT/3
Brand
Alfa Romeo
Year
1971
Country
Italy
Generation
Tipo 33
1971 Alfa Romeo Tipo 33/TT/3
Brand
Alfa Romeo
Year
1971
Country
Italy
Generation
Tipo 33
About this car
Discover the history
The 1971 Alfa Romeo Tipo 33/TT/3 is a distinguished model in the storied lineage of Alfa Romeo’s sports prototypes, representing a fusion of advanced engineering and competitive spirit. Part of the illustrious Tipo 33 series, the 33/TT/3 was designed to compete in the World Sportscar Championship, showcasing Alfa Romeo’s prowess in endurance racing.
The “TT” in its name stands for “Telaio Tubolare,” indicating its tubular chassis construction. This lightweight yet rigid space frame was a key feature, offering an excellent balance between strength and weight. The chassis was further refined from its predecessors to improve handling and performance, essential for the rigors of endurance racing.
Powering the 33/TT/3 was a 3.0-liter V8 engine, a naturally aspirated powerplant capable of producing around 440 horsepower. This engine, designed by Carlo Chiti, was known for its robust performance and reliability. It featured dual overhead camshafts, a flat-plane crankshaft, and a sophisticated fuel injection system, all contributing to its high-revving nature and impressive output. The engine was mated to a five-speed manual transmission, allowing precise control over the power delivery.
Aerodynamics played a crucial role in the design of the 33/TT/3. The car’s sleek, low-slung body was meticulously crafted to minimize drag and maximize downforce. This design included a prominent rear wing and carefully sculpted bodywork that enhanced stability at high speeds. The use of lightweight materials, such as aluminum and fiberglass, further reduced the car’s weight, aiding its agility and acceleration.
The suspension system of the 33/TT/3 was highly advanced for its time, featuring independent double wishbones with coil springs and dampers both front and rear. This setup provided exceptional handling characteristics, allowing the car to navigate the challenging circuits of the World Sportscar Championship with precision and confidence. The braking system included large ventilated discs, ensuring consistent stopping power under the intense conditions of endurance racing.
The 1971 season saw the 33/TT/3 compete fiercely against rivals like Porsche and Ferrari. Notable successes included a strong performance at the 1000 km of Brands Hatch and a second-place finish at the 1000 km of Monza. These results highlighted the car’s potential and the engineering excellence behind it.
Although the 33/TT/3 faced stiff competition and did not secure a championship title, it laid the groundwork for future Alfa Romeo prototypes. Its blend of innovative engineering, competitive performance, and distinctive design elements left a lasting impact on the world of motorsport.
