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The 1968 Alfa Romeo T33/2 ‘Daytona’ stands as a celebrated icon in the realm of prototype racing, succeeding the TZ as Alfa Romeo’s factory-backed sports racing competitor. Developed largely by Carlo Chiti’s Autodelta, Alfa Romeo’s de facto racing division, the T33 featured an advanced chassis and initially a potent 2-liter V-8 engine, all encased in a sleek, closed body reminiscent of contemporaries like the Ferrari P4 and Porsche 908. This particular example, chassis number AR 75033 015, holds the distinction of being the first of only a handful of T33/2s factory-equipped with a larger 2.5-liter engine during the 1968 racing season, making it a rare and historically significant machine. With a rich racing pedigree spanning from Autodelta and Team VDS campaigns in the late 1960s to privateer victories in Angola in the early 1970s, and a meticulous restoration and maintenance history, this T33/2 represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of Alfa Romeo’s legendary racing heritage.
Engine and Performance: This 1968 Alfa Romeo T33/2 is particularly notable for being one of the first examples to receive the larger 2.5-liter V-8 engine during the 1968 season. While Autodelta initially equipped the T33/2 with a 2-liter V-8, they quickly explored increasing displacement. This chassis, number 015, debuted at the 1968 24 Hours of Daytona with a 2-liter engine, achieving a 5th in class (6th overall) finish. Subsequently, at the Targa Florio in May 1968, chassis 015 became the first T33/2 to race with the 2.5-liter engine. While specific horsepower figures for the 2.5-liter unit in 1968 are not explicitly stated, it undoubtedly offered increased power and torque compared to the 2-liter version, enhancing its competitive edge. The engine has been recently rebuilt twice by specialists S. Jennings Racing, with significant investments exceeding $50,000 in 2013 and $65,000 in 2018, ensuring its high-performance capabilities are maintained.
Racing History: Chassis number 015 boasts an impressive racing career. Following its debut at the 1968 Daytona 24 Hours, it campaigned with the 2.5-liter engine at the Targa Florio and the Nürburgring 1000 KM in 1968. Later in the 1968 season, it was entered by Team VDS at the Austrian Grand Prix, finishing 3rd in class (4th overall). For the 1969 season, the car was campaigned extensively by VDS, achieving a 5th in class (8th overall) at the Monza 1000 KM and another 5th in class (6th overall) at the Spa 1000 KM. In 1970, the T33/2 was sold to Portuguese driver Antonio Peixinho, who raced it to multiple victories in Angola during the early 1970s. It continued to be raced by Santos Peras until 1974. This extensive and successful racing history underscores the car’s significance and performance capabilities.
Restoration and Ownership: This Alfa Romeo T33/2 underwent a restoration in the 1990s by ex-Autodelta mechanic Marcello Gambi. Since being acquired by the second-to-last owner in 2000, it has been regularly tested and prepared for vintage racing, even participating in the 2000 and 2004 Le Mans Classic. Remarkably, it was even registered for road use in Germany during this period. The current owner acquired the car in 2012 and has continued to invest in its preparation for racing, including the two significant engine rebuilds in 2013 and 2018. The car is presented in the #220 race livery from the 1968 Targa Florio, where its 2.5-liter engine made its debut. It is accompanied by its original rear clamshell bodywork and a substantial collection of spare parts.
Summary:
- 1968 Alfa Romeo T33/2 ‘Daytona’ (Chassis No. AR 75033 015)
- First of a few factory-equipped with a 2.5-liter engine in 1968
- Raced by Autodelta and Team VDS in 1968 and 1969
- Participated in the 1968 24 Hours of Daytona, Targa Florio, and Nürburgring 1000 KM
- Campaigned by Portuguese privateers in Angola in the early 1970s
- Restored by ex-Autodelta mechanic Marcello Gambi in the 1990s
- Two significant engine rebuilds in 2013 and 2018
- Presented in 1968 Targa Florio #220 livery
- Accompanied by original rear clamshell bodywork and spare parts
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle, especially one with a significant racing history and restoration work.
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