When you see one of these coach built rarities you cannot help but be impressed by the bold revolutionary shape and incredibly forward thinking design. Coupled with the underpinnings of a 105; arguably Alfa Romeo’s finest driving platform, the result is a car that not only captivates in its looks but leverages the driving characteristics of one of the finest models Alfa Romeo has ever made. In every respect this example does not disappoint. Designed by Ercole Spada at Zagato, the Junior Z debuted at the Turin Motor Show in November 1969. The car featured lightweight, aerodynamic Zagato built Kammtail bodywork that shared its floorpan, suspension and drivetrain with the Spider 1300 Junior. Very early builds had aluminium bonnet, hatch and door skins. This slightly later build car has its original aluminium bonnet only as was the case at time of manufacture. This 1971 Alfa Romeo Junior Zagato is one of approximately 1,100 examples produced between 1969 and 1972. This is confirmed by the Alfa Romeo Heritage Certificate which accompanies the car showing a delivery date of February 1971 to Amsterdam. As an earlier 1300 it’s the purist choice owing to its shorter wheelbase preserving the Kammtail form the designer originally intended. The current owner imported the car from Europe 8 years ago and immediately set about an extensive restoration and where appropriate made subtle and sensitive improvements. The result is a standout example in all respects. These enhancements included the fitting of the TZ wheels, improving the stance of the car, quality dash covering, headlining, a Nardi steering wheel in addition to other features where he felt there was scope to make the car better than when it left the factory. The body was media blasted and stripped, all corrosion removed and where required new metal let in. Keep in mind these were originally hand built bodies constructed at Zagato and this work was undertaken here locally by craftsmen able to work using the same original techniques. There is an extensive folder of images evidencing this work and as you would expect the panel gaps are spot on. The shell was then painted in an attractive shade of dark red reflecting the colour of earlier Alfa Romeo’s. Although not correct for the car, the colour suits the car incredibly well and contrasts beautifully with the bright work. In the flesh it really is a wonder to behold. All the stainless steel brightwork has been polished and presents beautifully. A new front bumper was created from scratch at great cost, underlining the level of investment and care taken in restoring this car. The electrically operated rear boot lid performs as it should and the signature plexiglass front grille cover is spotless. The Junior Zagato sits on attractive replica 15 inch TZ alloy wheels shod with fresh 185/65 Pirelli P6 Cinturato tyres. This gives the car a lowered stance and it suits the car well. A freshly restored spare wheel with is mounted beneath the rear storage floor. Braking is handled by discs at all four corners, and work to the brakes has been conducted during the restoration. The interior of this car is just lovely and features the desirable bucket seats all beautifully trimmed in rich ‘rosewood’ red along with a matching rear bulkhead and door panels. Features include a centre console with aluminium trim, new, as original, black rubber Alfa Romeo-branded floors mats, and a black carpet mounted in the rear cargo area. The new Nardi steering wheel greets you with the classic Jaeger 8k-rpm tachometer and 220-km/h speedometer while gauges for water temperature, oil pressure, and fuel level are mounted in the centre of the dash. The dash has been trimmed and stitched in ‘mouse hair’ at some expense and looks stunning. Along with the steering wheel and gauges these just look perfect to the eye. The five-digit odometer shows 54161kms. The head lining has been replaced with new Alfa Romeo ‘snake bite’ material, fresh and pin sharp. It looks stunning. As you would expect from a car of this quality everything presents as new and as it should be. Turn the key and the engine fires up to a familiar Alfa growl fuelled by the correct and rebuilt twin Solex carburettors. Out on the open road this car is just superb. The gearbox is the best we have ever used, it is accurate, smooth and quick to work through the gears and using it is quite addictive. The engine is responsive and pulls well and given the cars weight makes for an entertaining drive. The suspension benefits from some modifications and only helps in providing razor sharp handling. This is one well sorted car and a driver’s delight. These Junior Zagato’s are rare items, and few if any, have benefited from the level of care and investment as this one has. Fresh from an extensive and thorough restoration this presents a great opportunity to acquire a wonderful coach built Alfa Romeo. The car is serviced, on the button and ready to go.