This 1931 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Zagato Spyder is from the fifth series of production. With a 1752 CC supercharged inline sic-cylinder 6C twin cam engine, dual overhead camshafts and a 4-speed manual gearbox, it has good mid-range torque and 85 peak horsepower at 4,400 rpm. An excellent chassis and strikingly beautiful alloy Zagato coachwork made it one of the most desirable sports cars of the 1930s. Alfa Romeos dominated the Italian sports car racing in the 1930s including a win by a 6C 1750 Zagato Spyder at Mille Miglia in 1929. The car was first registered in August 1931 in Southwest France to Baron Philippe d Gunzbourg. The current owner purchased the car almost 25 years ago, and appreciating its unique originality, has stored it untouched in the condition you see it today.
Overview
- Make and Model: 1931 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Zagato Spyder
- Manufacturer: Alfa Romeo
- Coachbuilder: Zagato
Specifications
- Engine: 1.75-liter (1752 cc) inline-six, supercharged in some variants
- Power Output: Approximately 85-102 horsepower (depending on the specific variant and tuning)
- Transmission: 4-speed manual
- Chassis: Steel ladder frame with a wheelbase of around 108 inches
- Weight: Approximately 900 kg (1984 lbs), contributing to its agile handling
Design and Features
- Body Style: Two-seater roadster/spyder, characterized by its open-top design and sleek, aerodynamic lines
- Exterior: Designed by Zagato, the body features a lightweight and aerodynamic construction with signature elements such as the long hood, low stance, and streamlined fenders. The Zagato design is known for its elegance and performance-focused aesthetics.
- Interior: Simple yet functional, with leather seats and basic instrumentation. The focus was on reducing weight and maximizing performance, so the interior was minimalistic.
- Suspension: Semi-elliptic leaf springs with solid axles, front and rear
Historical Context
The Alfa Romeo 6C series, designed by Vittorio Jano, was introduced in 1927 and continued to evolve over the years. The 6C 1750, produced from 1929 to 1933, was one of the most successful models, particularly in motorsport. The combination of Alfa Romeo's engineering and Zagato's lightweight bodywork made the 6C 1750 a dominant force in racing.
Noteworthy Aspects
- Racing Heritage: The 6C 1750 was highly successful in motorsport, with victories in prestigious events such as the Mille Miglia, Targa Florio, and the 24 Hours of Spa. Its success on the track cemented Alfa Romeo's reputation as a premier manufacturer of high-performance sports cars.
- Supercharged Variants: Many of the 6C 1750 models, especially those built for racing, were equipped with a Roots-type supercharger, significantly boosting power and performance.
- Zagato Design: The collaboration with Zagato resulted in a lightweight and aerodynamic body that enhanced the car's speed and handling. Zagato's craftsmanship is highly regarded, and their designs are celebrated for their beauty and effectiveness.
Legacy
The 1931 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Zagato Spyder is considered one of the most iconic and desirable pre-war sports cars. Its combination of engineering excellence, racing success, and design elegance makes it a standout in automotive history.
You may purchase a print of the 1931 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Zagato Spyder in our dElegance 2013 online gallery.