Legendary Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale Celebrates 50 Years

Yesterday marked a very special occasion for Alfa Romeo, the legendary 33 Stradale's 50th birthday. The sports car made its debut on August 31st, 1967 in Italy. In honor of that historic date, a special new art exhibit will open in Italy featuring the 33 Stradale – along with a few of its stunning siblings – on display for all to see. But first, some history.

The iconic look of the 33 Stradale was penned by Franco Scaglione, and based on the equally stunning Autodelta Alfa Romeo Tipo 33 racing car that came a few years before it. Production was carried out by Carrozzeria Marazzi following the sports car world debut in 1967 at the Turin Motor Show in Italy.

Just 18 examples of the 33 Stradale were built for the road, each one equipped with a handbuilt 2.0-liter V8 good for somewhere in the neighborhood of 230 horsepower (172 kilowatts) in road trim, and 270 hp (201 kW) in race trim. All that power was paired to a six-speed Colotti transaxle gearbox.

From a standstill, the 33 Stradale was able to sprint to 60 miles per hour (96 kilometers per hour) in just 5.5 seconds, and continue on to a top speed of 160 mph (260 kmh). It was the fastest commercially available car available in 1968, with the ability to conquer the standing kilometer in just 24.0 seconds.

So, in honor of all that impressive heritage, Alfa Romeo is opening up a special exhibition at the Museo Storico Alfa Romeo in Arese, Milan, which will show off the 33 Stradale alongside the six other concept cars derived from the same chassis, including the Carabo, Iguana, 33/2 Speciale, Cuneo, and Navajo. Also on display will be the 33/2 Daytona, 33/3, 33 TT12, and the 33 SC12 turbo racing cars. The special exhibition opened its doors yesterday, August 31st, and will be available for viewing from 10 AM to 6 PM daily.