The Alfa Romeo SZ is a genuine prototype, which went into series production. From 1989 to 1991, Zagato produced 1,036 units. It was the last work designed by Robert Opron, the French designer best known for his work on the Citroën DS and SM. The SZ was also available as a convertible (RZ), and even had a little-known cousin at Lancia: the Hyena.

Our example, number 898, was delivered new in Italy to the Alfa Romeo dealership in Ancona. Its first owner had it imported to Germany 5 years later, where it remained until 2018. It then spent 3 years in Belgium in the hands of a meticulous collector, who had the paintwork redone by Officina Valenti, a veritable institution. The current owner will import it to France in 2021.

Alfa Romeo's history is rich in road models built in small series, but at the dawn of the 1990s, it had been a long time since Milan had attempted the adventure. In this context, the SZ coupé (also known as the ES30), designed by Centro Stile Fiat under the direction of the late Robert Opron, struck a chord when its prototype was unveiled at the 1989 Geneva Motor Show. Its distinctive styling, entirely dictated by aerodynamic concerns, caused a stir - all the more so as the production version, marketed a year later, was virtually identical. Beneath this provocative, radical exterior lies a familiar platform and suspension, derived from that of the 75 V6 sedan. Like the latter, the car is powered by the legendary six-cylinder engine by engineer Giuseppe Busso, developing 210 hp. Built in only 1036 examples in its coupé version (a roadster also existed), the SZ occupies a special place in the hearts of aficionados... and in the collections of enlightened enthusiasts!