Late-Production “Coda Tronca”; 1 of approximately 40 examples built. Restored by Renowned Zagato Specialist Carrozzeria Galbiati of Milan. Long-term ownership by distinguished Alfa Romeo collectors and eligible for premier tours and rallies. A desirable and collectible postwar Alfa Romeo! The origins of the Alfa Romeo are as captivating as the unique body design. Originally developed as an entirely unplanned concept derived from destiny with a damaged Alfa Romeo, the SZ series evolved from the vision of Elio Zagato of Milan, Italy speculating on the outcome of a full alloy bodied car in place of the heavier steel Bertone body. Conceived primarily for competition use, Alfa Romeo mechanicals, lightweight plexiglass windows, and hand formed aluminum coachwork combined perfectly with the high-revving twin-cam engine as the ideal combination for motorsports events. The stunning alloy design, state of the art race engineering, and remarkable track performance would subsequently shape the legendary status of the Alfa Romeo SZ. Once the prototype had achieved Zagato’s vision, construction commenced using hand fabrication using a Giulietta Spider chassis, 00120 twin-cam engines, and close ratio 5-speed transmissions. The most desirable of these would become the later series variants featuring the dramatic Kamm tail eventually emerging as an iconic profile defining the innovative and daring 1950s era of Alfa Romeos. With approximately 40 constructed, the Kamm tail was not only beautiful, it was highly effective at stabilizing the car at high speeds where aerodynamics saved fuel and improved speeds particularly racing at Le Mans and Monza. Not only were the final series SZ “Coda Tronca” defining for the era, they laid the groundwork for the successor, the Giulia TZ. In the hands of skilled privateers these exceptional cars achieved win after win at prestigious international venues including hill climbs, endurance races, and circuit events running in the 1.3 Liter GT class. Recorded in Alfa Romeo factory records, this car, chassis AR10126.00188, was completed February 10, 1962, finished in Metallic Grey and delivered to the first owner, Rafael Lochen Izaguirre, via the official Alfa Romeo distributor in Lugano, Switzerland. As is the case with hand built sports cars, early ownership history remains partially recorded, though clearly, past owners appreciated the rarity and importance of this SZ, sequestering it until the early 1970. By then, the Coda Tronca was purchased by Henri Jacques Eugène Vuarraz, proprietor of a garage specializing in Alfa Romeo repairs located in Neuchâtel, Switzerland. At that time, in addition to the SZ, Vuarraz had amassed an impressive collection of Zagato-bodied Alfa Romeos, including an SVZ, another SZ, and a TZ. During hisownership, Vuarraz refinished the car in red, freshened the mechanicals and enjoyed it as a road car, even managing a few motoring holidays with his family. As decades passed, Vuarraz continued to enjoy his collection until eventually parting with the Coda Tronca, inclusive of a deal involving his other Zagato-bodied cars assigned to an Italian dealer.While still in Italy, a restoration was completed by the esteemed Carrozzeria Galbiati of Milan. Known for their exceptional craftsmanship including former Zagato fabrication personnel familiar with lightweight alloy panel construction techniques, the restoration included refinishing the car in its present silver over black color scheme, as it was first constructed when it left the factory in 1962. In 2004, the Coda Tronca became part of the well-regarded collection of Fred van Lingen, a Dutch Alfa Romeo collector who not only showed the car, but also boldly entered it in several historic events. In 2008, the car was exported to North America where it has subsequently remained under American ownership with Alfa Romeo enthusiasts Manny del Arroz and Tom Stegman, eventually joining the Robert Cole collection. Today, having benefited from decades of knowledgeable stewardship and consummate care, this beautifully presented Coda Tronca retains its correct tipo 00120 engine, beautifully finished in the original colors when delivered new. One of approximately 40 examples built, this Coda Tronca represents the ultimate evolution of the Giulietta and remains one of the most rewarding postwar Alfa Romeos to own and drive. Eligible for the world’s foremost touring events, concours, and historic competitions, this Coda Tronca offers an exceptional opportunity to acquire one of Zagato’s most enduring creations – one that can be driven with confidence just as intended when crafted by master Italian coachbuilders.Beautifully restored to correct specifications, the silver finish is subtle and refined, enhancing the low and sinewy profile, highlighting both the curvaceous fender line and crisply tapered Kamm Tail. The exquisite Zagato coachwork is both dramatic and functional with unique features delicately highlighting the engaging silhouette. Minimal chrome details and polished aluminum window trim surrounding the clear Plexiglas and flush windscreen convey the lightweight build theme as originally constructed. The dramatically lowered Carello headlights are positioned below the fender line, while the finely shaped grille line and distinctive Kamm Tail rear end blend effortlessly with the overall body proportions. Even the distinctive Alfa Romeo grille is uniquely positioned low on the front fascia also below the headlight line. The correctly finished silver ventilated solid wheels further enhance the low profile body design.

All finishing touches including emblems, mirrors, latches, and door handles have been faithfully restored. The combined beauty and presence of this elegant and innovative Alfa Romeo is impressive considering that most advanced design ideas often struggle to capture both beauty and functionality – yet the Coda Tronca does so from every view. Approaching the door handle to access the interior, the dramatic profile is further evident in the low door, window sill, and gracefully tapered roof line continuing all the way back to the rear of the car. The door opens easily and the contoured seats invite you into what is surprisingly a roomy cockpit. Although the interior materials have gently aged since the restoration was completed, the relaxed feeling adds to the comfort of the cabin and matches the racing lineage. The bucket seats are comfortable, and the driver’s seat is outfitted with a competition vintage style 4” lap belt with an aluminum gooseneck clasp. The seats offer beneficial side support with considerable room even for taller drivers without compromising a favorable driving position. The unified black interior feels all the more spacious due to the magnificent curved rear plexiglass, side windows, and gracefully curved windshield. The dashboard features a raised binnacle housing a set of three Veglia gauges, finished with satin black dial faces, ivory nomenclature, and traditional ivory needles. Controls are easily within reach, including the gear shift handle properly booted to the central floor tunnel. The interior door panels are finished with delicate chrome grab handles, gathered map pockets, and hand cranks for raising and lowering the side windows. Behind the seats, the rear area has been finished with matching black material with space suitable for soft luggage or willing smaller passengers and the upper package shelf finishes the expansive space beneath the rear window. The overall interior presentation is settled and refined, inviting the spirit of competition while celebrating Italian craftsmanship. Under the hood, the fabulous Alfa Romeo twin cam engine has been finished and detailed to period correct standards including numerous handsome details. Twin 40DCOE2 Weber carburetors are mounted low on the passenger side, below the polished alloy cam casing, allowing for the elegant low hood line. The rare and correct airbox feeds the carburetors through a labyrinth of mechanical artistry cleverly capturing fast air from the forward collector which is forced through the quad-opening plenum for each of the two Weber carburetors. Celebrating the competition nature of the original build, the legacy craftsmanship and thoughtful restoration mercifully avoid an overdone restoration. Hardware, lines, wiring, and finishes are all correctly presented reflecting both authenticity and purpose befitting the racing lineage. The same is true of the trunk which houses a spare tire, modern Optima battery, and access to the fuel filler. The undercarriage returns further confirmation of a comprehensive restoration, with correct finishes, proper attention to detail, and excellent craftsmanship, here too finished to correct standards but reflective of enjoyable use since the restoration was completed.The car starts easily, following a simple procedure and warm up typical for cars of this era. Once settled at idle and operating temperatures are reached, the engine delivers crisp throttle response from the twin cam engine. Driving manners are delightful, engaging, and encourage drivers to be fully present, enjoying the engine sounds and nimble handling. The expansive views from the inside captivate driver and passenger with each gear shift and sweeping curve – a proud reminder that you are driving one of the most innovative and desirable Alfa Romeos of the 1950s.Combining passionate Italian racing lineage and rarity, this Alfa Romeo SZ “Coda Tronca” embodies the spirit of motorsports racing, the daring innovations of Zagato, and the legacy of Alfa Romeo. Ready to participate in a litany of vintage road tours, global concours events, and Alfa Romeo club gatherings, this Coda Tronca is sure to delight the next fortunate enthusiast with memorable driving experiences, pride of ownership, and the exhilarating pleasure of a spirited drive. The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.