Sotheby’s is honored to present a rare gem of Italian racing heritage: the 1955 Alfa Romeo 1900C SS Berlinetta by Zagato. This exquisite example is not only a testament to Zagato’s legendary design prowess but also a significant piece of Alfa Romeo’s storied racing history.
Design and Legacy:
The 1955 Alfa Romeo 1900C SS Berlinetta is a masterpiece of automotive design, born from the visionary collaboration between Alfa Romeo and the celebrated coachbuilder Zagato. Inspired by Elio Zagato’s racing enthusiasm, this model was crafted using lightweight aluminum, resulting in a sleek, aerodynamic form. The car features a sculpted nose, bulging hood with a single intake for the SS engine’s Weber carburetors, and a design that remains one of the finest examples of Zagato’s artistry.
Racing History and Performance:
The 1900C SS Zagato made its mark in the competitive world of European sports car racing. The model’s racing pedigree includes notable performances, with six examples competing in the 1955 Mille Miglia. Notably, Joakim Bonnier achieved a class win at the Sverige Grand Prix in August 1955, showcasing the car’s formidable capabilities against competitors such as Porsche and Fiat 8Vs.
This specific 1900C SS Zagato is chassis number 01955, the 23rd of the 39 examples built and the second delivered in 1955. Originally equipped with engine number 00891, it retains its matching-numbers engine and has undergone a recent mechanical rebuild, ensuring it remains in exceptional condition.
Provenance and Restoration:
Delivered in March 1955 to Dr. Vincenzo Fornasari, a prominent client of Zagato, the car was raced by his son Luigi in several prestigious events, including the Mille Miglia, where it secured impressive finishes. Over the years, the 1900C SS has changed hands, passing through notable owners such as Ernie Mendicki, Jim Cesari, and Ugo Piccagli, who campaigned it in the 1986 Targa Florio and 1987 Mille Miglia Storica.
In recent years, the Alfa Romeo has been meticulously restored, including a $129,000 investment in 2023 for a comprehensive mechanical refresh by Phil Reilly & Co. This included rebuilding the engine, carburetors, and gearbox, as well as re-coring the radiator.
Current Condition:
Today, the Alfa Romeo 1900C SS Berlinetta by Zagato stands as a rare and highly collectible example of post-war Italian racing excellence. With its matching-numbers engine, recent restoration, and illustrious racing history, it offers a unique opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts.
Auction Details:
The 1955 Alfa Romeo 1900C SS Berlinetta by Zagato will be available for bidding at Sotheby’s Monterey 2024 auction, with an estimate of $700,000 – $900,000 USD. This is a rare chance to acquire a remarkable piece of automotive history, celebrated for its beauty, rarity, and performance.
Don’t miss the opportunity to own this exceptional Zagato-bodied racing berlinetta, a true icon of Italian automotive heritage.
Source: rmsothebys.com
This Article use tools from Chatgpt
