The Alfa Romeo SZ, nicknamed “Il Mostro” for its bold design and controversial lines, is a car that left a mark on its era.
But while the standard model is already a collector’s item, the Alfa Romeo SZ Trofeo takes rarity and pedigree to the next level. Designed for a one-make racing series in the 1990s, this special edition is a dream for car enthusiasts and is now up for sale.
Read more:
- One of the best pieces of news of the year has already dropped, and it concerns the world’s most famous SUV: the new Defender
- Fully autonomous cars on our roads by 2025? A decisive innovation is expected to equip half of new vehicles this year
A racing legend with a unique history
The Alfa Romeo SZ Trofeo is not just a reworked version of the base model. Built for the track, this car competed in prestigious events like the Trofeo series, including a support race at the 1993 Monaco Grand Prix. It also participated in several races in the Italian GT Championship that same year, further boosting its legacy. Under the hood lies the legendary 3.0-liter naturally aspirated V6 Busso engine, renowned for its unmistakable sound. However, unlike the classic SZ, the Trofeo features numerous upgrades: racing suspension, specialized brakes, and a stripped-down interior featuring bucket seats and a minimalist dashboard. The result? A machine engineered for pure performance. After its racing career, this car belonged to Andrea de Adamich, a former Formula 1 driver. Used as a daily driver for over a decade, it was later sold to a Dutch collector who had it road-legalized in Germany.
Striking looks and exceptional performance
Visually, the SZ Trofeo is a showstopper. It features its original red and white livery, along with the distinctive markings of the Trofeo series. The car sits on 16-inch OZ Racing wheels, enhancing its aggressive stance. Aerodynamic elements, including air intakes and fiberglass appendages, emphasize its racing DNA. Performance-wise, the V6 engine delivers an astounding 750 horsepower, sending power to the rear wheels through a 7-speed sequential gearbox. This engineering, combined with its lightweight construction, ensures a visceral driving experience, both on the track and open roads. As a testament to its capabilities, rally legend Walter Röhrl even took this car for an unforgettable session at Austria’s Red Bull Ring circuit.
A historic piece at a collector’s price
With only a handful of units produced, the Alfa Romeo SZ Trofeo is an absolute rarity. With fewer than 14,000 kilometers (around 8,700 miles) on the clock, it remains in excellent condition, retaining all its original components. Currently listed for approximately $193,000, its price reflects both its exclusivity and storied history. For fans of Italian cars and collectors alike, this is a rare opportunity to own a piece of Alfa Romeo history—combining bold design, impressive performance, and an emotionally rich heritage.
This article explores the fascinating story of the Alfa Romeo SZ Trofeo, its unique technical features, and its significance to collectors. A true icon of the 1990s, this one-of-a-kind car celebrates the craftsmanship of Italian automotive engineering.
You’ll need $11 million to buy this unique hypercar, but it’s absolutely worth it