Alfa Romeo celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2010 in grand fashion with the introduction of the TZ3, a new sports car honoring the infamous Tubolare Zagato models of the 1960s. A purpose-built competition GT, the original TZ?s development was guided by Autodelta, led by former Ferrari engineer Carlo Chiti. The TZ shared the same basic 1,570 cc engine with the Sprint Speciale and Spider Veloce (later with the addition of a twin-plug cylinder head). The transmission had heavy-duty, close-ratio gears and a very quick short-throw lever. Reduced bonnet height was achieved by tilting the engine in the frame. The front suspension was a similar design to the standard Giulia, while the rear was an elaborate independent competition type to reduce unsprung weight.
TZs competed in the most important races, were driven by some of the best drivers at the time, and competed against the likes of the Ferrari 250 GTO, Shelby Cobra, Maserati Birdcage, and Porsche 904. At the 1964 Targa Florio alone, Porsche took the first two spots with their 904s, while Alfa Romeo?s TZs finished in 3rd and 4th with the TZ. Ferrari, with their 250 GTO, followed in 5th, 9th, 10th, and 12th. Class wins at Sebring, Le Mans, and the Nürburgring that year also solidified the TZ?s name in the annals of motorsport.

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