UPDATE: According to Top Gear, as of 10/13/2023 all 33 units have been sold
Alfa Romeo, a name synonymous with Italian automotive excellence, has once again captured the hearts of car enthusiasts with the reincarnation of an icon – the 33 Stradale. In a limited series of only 33 exclusive units, Alfa Romeo has melded heritage and innovation to create a two-seater coupé that epitomizes the essence of Italian sportsmanship.
The story of the Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale begins with a dash of courage, a pinch of audacity, and a whole lot of passion. Much like its predecessor, the 1967 33 Stradale, the new model embodies the same daring spirit and vision that made the original a timeless masterpiece. With unwavering boldness, the Alfa Romeo team has birthed a new legend – a mobile work of art, a harmonious blend of aesthetics and technology.
Creating a Modern Masterpiece
The new 33 Stradale, crafted under the watchful eye of the Alfa Romeo Centro Stile, draws inspiration from its illustrious 1967 ancestor, infusing elements of Alfa Romeo’s contemporary design language. Its exterior is a symphony of perfect proportions, sculpted volumes, and captivating surfaces, epitomizing Alfa Romeo’s signature aesthetics.
The front end exudes power and muscularity, highlighted by the iconic shield and elliptical-base lighting.
Butterfly doors adorned with large air inlets adorn the sleek profile, creating a dynamic and slender silhouette. The body’s forward projection, coupled with a wraparound sunroof and corner door openings, offer a cockpit-like view reminiscent of an aircraft. The rear design, bold and unapologetic, is offset by the graceful front with a peak in the middle of the roof, an unconventional design choice.
The streamlined design also excels in aerodynamic efficiency, achieving a remarkable Cx of 0.375 without the need for active systems.
The interior, presented in two trim levels – Tributo and Alfa Corse – follows a minimalist design philosophy that places the focus squarely on the driving experience. Controls are thoughtfully placed on the center console, and the 3D telescope display engages the driver in a unique interaction. The steering wheel, free of buttons, emphasizes pure driving pleasure, while the aviation-inspired dashboard and central tunnel feature a blend of premium materials, including aluminum, carbon fiber, leather, and Alcantara. The wraparound seats, reminiscent of the original, prioritize comfort and ergonomics. Every detail reflects a commitment to creating an exclusive and engaging driving environment that stays true to the 1967 33 Stradale’s aesthetic and technical legacy.
A Unique Driving Experience
The Alfa Romeo team set a challenging goal for the 33 Stradale – to provide a driving experience akin to a track car while ensuring the vehicle remains suitable for everyday road use, without compromising comfort and safety. Formula 1 driver Valtteri Bottas, the Finnish
champion, collaborated on the tuning of this remarkable car, bringing F1 experience to everyday driving and upholding Alfa Romeo’s renowned handling.
The 33 Stradale offers two powerful options. The V-6 twin-turbo engine, delivering over 620 horsepower, is mated to an eight-speed DCT gearbox, rear-wheel-drive, and an electronic limited-slip differential. Alternatively, there’s an all-electric configuration that boasts more than 750 horsepower and a range of 450 km according to WLTP standards.
In both versions, performance is stellar. The top speed is an exhilarating 206 mph/333 km/h, with a 0 to 100 km/h time of less than three seconds.
Alfa Romeo has engineered the 33 Stradale to offer uncompromised handling, thanks to a double-arm active suspension. An innovative front axle lift system allows the vehicle to lift its front when facing obstacles, such as bumps or rails, ensuring the car’s bodywork remains undamaged. The driver can activate this function via the “Assetto” (setup) control on the center console when driving at speeds below 40 km/h. The hydraulic system elevates the front axle nearly 50mm to surmount obstacles, returning to the standard height either manually or when the preset speed limit is exceeded.
The car’s structural integrity is maintained through an aluminum H-frame and carbon-fiber monocoque, combining rigidity and lightweight construction. The roof structure, crafted from carbon fiber and aluminum, supports the butterfly doors and is a testament to the brand’s dedication to maintaining high standards of rigidity and safety. Even the window frames are fashioned from carbon fiber, while the rear window is made from polycarbonate.
A Personalized Masterpiece
For those fortunate enough to own one of the 33 Stradale units, an unprecedented level of customization
awaits. Alfa Romeo has created the “Bottega,” a team of experts who work closely with customers from inception to personally craft each car, signing the chassis number for an extra touch of uniqueness. Each 33 Stradale is a bespoke masterpiece, a reflection of its owner’s desires.
A Promise of the Future
The return of the “fuoriserie” (custom-built) 33 Stradale heralds a new chapter in Alfa Romeo’s storied history. This limited series represents not only the brand’s capabilities but also its commitment to marrying tradition with innovation. The Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale isn’t just a car; it’s a work of art in motion, a symphony of design and engineering, and a testament to the enduring allure of Italian sportsmanship.
As Jean-Philippe Imparato, CEO of the Alfa Romeo brand, aptly puts it, “This is the brand’s first fuoriserie (custom-built) car since 1969, and I promise it won’t be the last.” The 33 Stradale isn’t just a car; it’s a vision, a testament to what Alfa Romeo can achieve today and in the future.
Images via Alpha Romeo
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