Vehicle Description
Alfa Romeo launched the striking 1300 Junior Zagato in 1969 as an
edgier, more focused alternative to the standard Bertone-designed
Giulia 1300 GT Junior, reviving their long-standing relationship
with the legendary design firm Carrozzeria Zagato. Traditionally,
Zagato-bodied Alfa Romeos were the reserve of circuit racers and
rally drivers, but the Junior Z's purpose from the onset was that
of a driver-focused road car. The project was timely as Lancia
Fulvia Sport Zagato production was soon winding down, and the
coachbuilder wanted another project to keep its factory humming.
Starting with the Duetto 1300 Junior roadster platform for superior
rigidity, Zagato shortened the rear section and clothed the chassis
in a lightweight steel body with alloy panels. The dramatic
wedge-shaped, fastback styling was created by the legendary
designer Ercole Spada, a prolific stylist whose portfolio includes
the Aston Martin DB4GT Zagato, Alfa TZ1 and TZ2, Fulvia Sport, Ford
GT70, and BMW E34 5-series, among others. In classic Zagato
fashion, the body was a stark contrast to the standard car's
organic curves, yet it was thoroughly modern, perfectly
proportioned, and fabulously detailed. With the lightweight
coachwork and eager little 1300 cc twin-cam engine, the Junior Z
was nimble, lithe, and an absolute joy to drive. Approximately
1,100 were sold before the more powerful yet slightly heavier 1600
Jr. Zagato replaced it in 1972. This excellent 1300 Junior Z is one
of only a handful in the USA. Finished in an attractive combination
of blue over a tan trim, it is a very well-sorted, long-term
California car with numerous performance upgrades and benefits from
expert care by a series of devoted marque enthusiasts. One notable
past owner of this car is Ken "Mr. Alfa" Shaff, best known as
co-founder of both Auto Week Magazine and the California Mille
rally with Martin Swig. More recently, it was treated to extensive
engine-out mechanical refurbishment work done by Stewart's
Automotive in Sacramento, California (performed in 2019). Since
early 2022 has been in the care of an experienced Alfa specialist
and vintage racer who expertly dialed it in for reliable, fast-road
enjoyment. The blue paintwork is in very good condition overall.
Finish quality is consistent and is done to a level that encourages
regular driving. Minor cracks are noted around the A-pillars,
C-Pillars, and near the tailgate opening - a common affliction on
these cars. Otherwise, the paintwork is glossy and attractive, and
the appealing color suits the wedge-shaped form brilliantly. The
cockpit trim is well-preserved and in good condition, and the cabin
features correct instruments, switchgear, and cockpit fittings. An
aftermarket radio has been added. True to its Grand Touring
moniker, the Junior Z is surprisingly roomy and comfortable, even
for taller drivers. Mechanical updates to this car include the
fitment of a 2-liter twin-cam engine in place of the original 1300,
which has been upgraded with more aggressive camshafts. To cope
with the added power, a 4.56:1 limited-slip rear differential,
alloy GTA-style T-arm, and adjustable front upper control arms were
fitted. The chassis bushings and rubbers were replaced in 2019, and
the package is finished off with magnesium Cromodora 5-spoke alloys
and fresh Pirelli CN36 radial tires. On the open road, this Alfa is
an absolute blast to drive, the carefully chosen modifications
assuring exciting performance and allowing the diminutive Alfa to
hang with much more powerful machinery when things get twisty. A
rare, stylish, and highly capable sports car with pure Italian
racing DNA, this GT 1300 Junior Zagato is a must-have for the
classic driving enthusiast. Offers welcome and trades considered
For additional details please view this listing directly on our
website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7437-1970-alfa-romeo-junior-zagato/
