1965 Alfa Romeo Giulia TZ2 Competition Berlinetta

Autodelta was responsible for all of Alfa Romeo's race development, and in 1964 it redesigned the successful Alfa Romeo TZ1 into a more powerful machine, creating what many have called a 'mini Ferrari GTO' - the TZ2. The main difference between the cars was the use of fiberglass, and despite the fact that most cars were built from the same molds, many differed in detail. The TZ2 has Alfa's 4-cylinder, 1600cc engine with hotter camshafts, larger valves and twin-plug ignition, producing 170bhp at 7500 RPM, which was good for 160 MPH!

This early TZ2 (chassis number AR750106), which retains its original engine, won its class at Monza (1st in class and 7th overall), Sebring, and the Nurburgring during 1965 and 1966. It raced at Le Mans, racing for Autodelta, but did not finish due to engine failure, having completed 217 laps with Roberto Bussinello and Jean Rolland at the wheel. It also raced at the Targa Florio in 1966. In 1967, it raced at Sebring, Monza, and the Targa Florio, where it achieved 2nd in Class and 10th overall. It is completely original, never having been crashed, and it has never been restored. It is one of just twelve built and eleven in this GT competition configuration.

The TZ was designed by Alfa Romeo with the intention that it be raced for the factory by Carlo Chiti's Autodelta team but was also available to other teams and private owners. The multi-tube frame, manufactured by Ambrosini, was extensively braced for rigidity and safety. In a departure from Alfa's production cars, the TZs used coil spring independent suspension all around with inboard mounted rear disc brakes. Chassis and suspension assembly was done by Autodelta and the lightweight aluminum bodies were built and trimmed by Zagato.

The TZ2 weighed in at only 1,366 pounds dry. Its dual ignition Giulia competition engine was modified with dry sump lubrication to lower the engine and reduce frontal area. Its top speed was 136 mph.

This Alfa Romeo was the poster child for the Pebble Beach Tour d'Elegance in 2009, wearing its original Targa Florio colors. The car also was honored with the Gran Turismo Award and was featured in the racing simulation game series of the same name.