Designed by Zagato’s Ercole Spada and debuted at the 1969 Torino Motor Show, the Junior Zagato satisfied Alfa Romeo’s desire for a more sophisticated and upscale alternative to the Giulia GT coupe. Initially powered by a 1,300 cc engine, the 1,600 cc derivative was launched for the 1972 model year, allowing use of the entire Giulia Spider floor pan. From Pininfarina’s studio, they were sent to Maggiora for bodywork, next to Zagato for paint and interior, and lastly to Alfa Romeo for the drivetrain and finish.

This lengthy production process dictated a price roughly 50% higher than the Giulia GT. This 1600 Junior Zagato is finished in white over a black interior and is documented by period ACI paperwork and accompanied by an Automotoclub Storico Italiano identity certificate and badge. While its earliest history is not known, documents reveal that the Alfa Romeo was owned by Franco Guarnera of Milan in 1980, and by 1998, it was with Giuseppe di Taranto of Napoli, Italy. During this time, the Alfa Romeo was displayed for a long period in Zagato’s factory showroom, and was used as a support vehicle for Zagato’s participation in the Mille Miglia Storico. Mark Gessler, the president of the Historic Vehicle Association (HVA) owned the Alfa Romeo by 2017, when it was sold to Florida-based collector Leo Schigiel.

Appearing very original apart from a repaint in its original color, this rare and desirable Junior Zagato exudes the same appeal now as it did in 1973.