THE VEHICLE AT A GLANCE
Model dossier
- Production period
- 1992
- Body style
- Roadster
- Engine
- V6
- Type
- Limited
- Production
- 278
THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE CAR
Coachbuilding, design & conversions
PRICE & SALES RECORD
Vehicle value
- Original price
- Not documented
- Latest recorded sale
- Not documented
01 / THE STORY
History & context
The Alfa Romeo RZ by Zagato, introduced in 1991, was a rare and striking roadster variant of the Alfa Romeo SZ (Sprint Zagato) coupe. Both models were based on the platform of the Alfa Romeo 75, specifically utilizing its 3.0-liter V6 engine. Initially launched in 1989, the SZ was Alfa Romeo’s flagship 2-door GT, designed by Zagato. While it was not an immediate success, it gained a following for its remarkable handling, neutral driving dynamics, spacious cockpit, and well-appointed interior. The RZ, short for “Roadster Zagato,” was even rarer than its coupe counterpart, with only 278 units produced. Production of the RZ began in 1992, during a time when the market for limited-series sports cars was in decline. As a result, despite its unique design and exclusive nature, the RZ struggled commercially. Additionally, by the early ’90s, the 3.0-liter V6 engine, which had once been considered powerful, was seen as underwhelming for a high-performance sports car. Despite these challenges, the Alfa Romeo RZ retained the qualities that made the SZ appealing—its sharp handling and neutral behavior, thanks to its well-engineered chassis and suspension system. The car featured a luxurious interior and a distinctive, angular design typical of Zagato’s bold styling language. Each of the 278 cars was uniquely numbered, with a special plaque placed on the central tunnel near the gear lever, adding to its exclusivity. Although the Alfa Romeo RZ did not achieve commercial success, it remains a sought-after collector’s item today. Its rarity, along with the distinctive Zagato styling and Alfa Romeo heritage, makes it a fascinating piece of automotive history from a transitional period for sports car manufacturing.
02 / TECHNICAL IDENTITY
Specifications & construction
Production & construction
- Production
- 278
- Production type
- Limited
Engine & performance
- Engine configuration
- V6
Dimensions & accommodation
- Length
- 4,059 mm
- Width
- 1,730 mm
- Height
- 1,311 mm
Design & manufacture
- Manufacturer · Documented
- Alfa Romeo
- Coachbuilder / Body Builder · Documented
- Zagato
- Designer · Candidate
- Robert Opron
06 / EVENTS & AWARDS
Events & awards
No events or documented awards are currently recorded for this vehicle.
07 / THE VEHICLE IN DETAIL
Photo gallery 5 photographs
08 / FROM THE ARCHIVE
Archive
References held in the vehicle dossier. Their inclusion does not establish that every historical claim has been independently verified.
| Reference | Source type |
|---|---|
| Zagato archive — Alfa Romeo R.Z. Stradale/Corsa www.zagato.it | Coachbuilder first party archive |










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