Introduced in 1960, the Alfa Romeo Sprint Zagato (SZ) was conceived as an uncompromising dual-purpose machine, combining the proven mechanicals of the Giulietta Veloce with ultra-lightweight, all-aluminum coachwork by Zagato. Built in limited numbers and intended primarily for well-heeled privateer racers, the SZ quickly earned a formidable reputation for punching far above its weight in international endurance events, circuit races, and hill climbs. Today, it stands as one of the most coveted small-displacement GT cars of its era.

According to Angelo Tito Anselmi’s authoritative book Alfa Romeo Giulietta, this SZ, chassis 00037, was completed on August 23, 1960, and delivered new to Greek shipping magnate and amateur racing driver Harry Theodoracopulos. An early “round tail” example delivered new in traditional Italian racing red, it represents the purest expression of the original Zagato concept.

Theodoracopulos entered his new SZ in the 1961 12 Hours of Sebring and the 1962 SCCA National at Bridgehampton, although it reportedly served a backup role on both occasions to other Alfa Romeos. The sole documented race appearance during his ownership occurred in September 1962 at the FIA-sanctioned Bridgehampton Double 400, where the car was co-driven with Freddie Barrette, finishing 9th Overall and 6th in Class against strong competition.

Following Theodoracopulos’ acquisition of a Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta, the Giulietta SZ was sold to William E. Tuttle of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Tuttle is believed to have campaigned the car in Midwest SCCA events throughout the latter half of the 1960s. Ownership subsequently passed to Jack Zalinger of Illinois, before the car was acquired in 1986 by Alfa Romeo enthusiast Richard Lesniewicz of Leawood, Kansas. By the time Mr. Lesniewicz took delivery, the SZ bore the honest signs of extended competition use but remained remarkably intact, retaining what is believed to be its original engine, a correct tipo 00120 unit, no. 00157. An extensive restoration was undertaken, with the car stripped to bare metal and properly repaired, as documented in photos on file.

The SZ was then acquired around 2002 by collector and racer Alan Frick of Pasadena, California. Over the next 10 years, he campaigned it in West Coast vintage events, including multiple appearances at the Sonoma Wine Country Classic and Monterey Historic Automobile Races. In 2013, the car entered the collection of prominent Chicago-based collector Joe Hayes and for the past decade, it has resided in the distinguished collection of Tommy Trabue, where it has been displayed among other significant Zagato-bodied Alfa Romeos.

Well documented, professionally prepared, and eligible for premier historic events such as the Tour Auto and Le Mans Classic, this Giulietta SZ represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of Alfa Romeo’s most celebrated models.

*Please note that this vehicle is titled 1961.