This 1933 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Monza was originally sold to Count Castelbarco with Zagato Styled fenders and bodywork to make it a sports car eligible for the 1993 Mille Miglia. It finished 2nd to Nuvolari’s Spider Bodied Monza where Franco Cortese drove most of the race. It was raced frequently in 1933 and 1934 without fenders and crashed mildly in the 1933 Monza race after which it was sold and continued to compete in 1934. It competed in the 1938 Le Mans after which it raced in English Club events. The car came to America in the 1950’s and is still entirely original except for recent front fenders restored by Christopher Leydon Restoration.
Background and History
- Manufacturer: Alfa Romeo
- Designer: Vittorio Jano, a renowned automotive engineer known for his innovative designs.
Specifications
- Engine: The 8C 2300 Monza was powered by a supercharged 2.3-liter straight-eight engine.
- Power Output: The engine produced around 180 horsepower, which was exceptional for the time.
- Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox.
- Chassis: The car featured a lightweight, robust chassis that contributed to its outstanding performance.
Design and Features
- Body Style: The Monza is a two-seater open-top sports car, designed specifically for racing. Its design is characterized by a long hood, short tail, and a sleek, aerodynamic profile.
- Coachwork: The bodies were often built by specialized coachbuilders, with Touring and Zagato being among the notable names associated with this model.
- Interior: The interior was minimalistic, focusing on functionality and weight reduction. It featured basic instrumentation and bucket seats.
Performance
- Top Speed: The 8C 2300 Monza could reach top speeds of around 135 mph (217 km/h), making it one of the fastest cars of its era.
- Racing Success: The Monza was highly successful in Grand Prix racing and endurance events. It won numerous races, including the Targa Florio, the Mille Miglia, and Le Mans. It was driven by legendary racers like Tazio Nuvolari and Rudolf Caracciola.
- Handling: The car was renowned for its superb handling and agility, thanks to its balanced weight distribution and advanced suspension system.
Legacy
- Significance: The 8C 2300 Monza is considered one of Alfa Romeo's greatest achievements. Its success on the racetrack helped establish Alfa Romeo's reputation for engineering excellence and performance.
- Rarity: Due to its limited production and racing pedigree, the 8C 2300 Monza is extremely rare and highly coveted by collectors.
- Collectibility: Today, the 8C 2300 Monza is one of the most sought-after vintage cars, often commanding very high prices at auctions. Its combination of historical significance, performance, and design excellence makes it a centerpiece in any serious car collection.
Notable Achievements
- 1931 Italian Grand Prix: The Monza scored a significant victory at Monza, giving the car its name.
- Le Mans 24 Hours: The car secured multiple victories in the early 1930s, underscoring its endurance and reliability.
- Mille Miglia: Dominated this grueling Italian road race, further cementing its status as a racing legend.
Taken at the Amelia Concourse.
You may purchase a print of the 1933 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Monza in our dElegance 2014 online gallery.
