Zagato to build Viper-based Alfa Romeo TZ3 Stradale

Last year at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este the world got to see something rare and beautiful, a new Alfa Romeo Zagato bodied sports car. The Milanese design house, atelier and builder of gorgeous car bodies unveiled the one-of-one Alfa Romeo TZ3 Corsa.  This rolling sculpture was commissioned by a wealthy German customer for his amusement, and his private Zagato collection. The “Corsa” was based on the Alfa 8C Competizione and powered by a Maserati’s version of Ferrari’s 4.2-liter V8. “Corsa” meaning “race” also meant the car wasn’t road legal. We looked; we lusted, we sighed, knowing that we’d likely never see this beauty turn a wheel in public again.

So, “corsa” means one-off racecar in Zagato-speak, however “stradale” means “street.” It also means they’re going to build a limited production run of road legal TZ3 Stradale’s for public consumption.  Despite the similar nomenclature and design, the TZ3 Corsa is an entirely different animal than the TZ3 Stradale.  Starting with the fact that you can, if you have the means, buy one for your very own.

The TZ3 Stradale will be based on the American Dodge Viper. Much of the chassis, suspension, transmission and assorted running gear will be tuned but should remain largely intact. Using the Viper as a base means much less development time and less fiddling with emissions certification & safety regulations than if they’d started from scratch.  This should also mean the 8.4-liter V10 engine will power the TZ3 Stradale.  The Viper based Stradale is said to be about 1300 lbs (600 Kilos) heavier than it’s Corsa cousin.  However, V10 engine in the Stradale is reportedly tuned to make just over 600 horsepower.

The new Zagato TZ3 Stradale will make its first official appearance in California at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.  An American car enthusiast reportedly commissioned the project, possibly Jay Leno, Ralph Lauren or more likely, Jim Glickenhaus. Until we have production photos of the Stradale, the Zagato TZ3 Corsa is shown for reference.  Either way, we’ll all find out together in August and Autoviva will keep you posted.