Overnight, Alfa Romeo announced the return of the legendary 33 Stradale, not just a vintage icon but a car many purists consider the most beautiful ever built.
Recreating the most beautiful car in the world, derived directly from the Tipo 33 – one of the most dominant race cars of the era – is no doubt an anxiety-inducing undertaking for a brand. They must ensure the balance of pedigree, styling, performance and modernity is perfect, or risk bastardising the legendary name – much like Lamborghini did with the questionable modern Countach.
In the new 33 Stradale, Alfa Romeo returns to the world of “fuoriserie” (custom-built) cars – its first since 1969 – with a limited series of only 33 units, all of which have already sold (of course!).
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“Designed to enhance our identity, elevate our aspirations, and embody our DNA and values,” as per Alfa Romeo CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato, the 33 project has birthed the Alfa Romeo “Bottega”, a team of professionals who have worked closely with customers to design 33 unique and exclusive specimens.
The Bottega first met with prospective customers at the Monza GP in 2022, tasked with ensuring that the original 33’s history and iconicity would be respected, and will oversee future custom builds and general visual direction from the brand.
Scrupulously and respectfully reinterpreting the stylistic features of the 1967 33 Stradale, the modern car will feature either a V6 twin-turbo engine delivering over 620 hp (456kW) or an EV power unit with over 750 hp (551kW), with a top speed of 333km/h.
Alfa says the engine is an evolution of the Giulia QF’s thrilling 2.9-litre V6, hooked up to an enhanced eight-speed DCT gearbox while the EV will be good for 450km of range. An aluminium H-frame and carbon fibre monocoque tub will guarantee rigidity and lightness with ‘Brake-By-Wire’ tech and Brembo carbon ceramics getting approval from Valtteri Bottas, who joins the project development team.
An intensely faithful and dramatic body is framed by originally shaped LED lights, huge hinged carbon and aluminium “elytra” butterfly doors, bulbous air intakes and V-shaped accents that extend from the integrated ‘confango’ (nose, splitter and wing arrangement) to the rear of the vehicle.
Two different basic interior treatments are available with minimalism as the dominant theme – Tributo uses leather and tactile aluminium while Alfa Corse boasts sportier carbon fibre and Alcantara accents. The telescopic dashboard and central cockpit, with a small retractable multi-media screen, feature mechanical details inspired by aviation, while the enveloping seats and door panels contribute to creating an exclusive and comfortable environment.
Colour options include Pastel Rosso Alfa, a royal blue, and a clearcoat Rosso called Villa d’Este. Paying homage to the Tipo 33, customers can also opt for a red and white colourway.
And the price of the Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale for the Alfisti wondering? Circa €1.7m before tax, on roads etc. An unexpected and truly exciting release from Alfa Romeo that indicates their desire to return to the supercar category.
