Alfa's new model a throwback to 60's elegance

Milan-based design consultancy Zagato, famed for its avantgarde spicing up of brands such as Maserati, Aston Martin and Lancia, are to collaborate on a new project with fellow Italian's Alfa Romeo.

Such is the prowess of the Zagato Alfa Romeo TZ3 Corsa that supercar owners should be entering showrooms to proclaim ''I must sell my Porsche'' for this classically designed and superpowered Alfa which is dramatically different from the more generic aesthetics of the 911 turbo or Aston Martin DB7.

Based on a 1960's coupe with a rather large backside, the Zagato TZ3 brings back memories of when cars were muscular yet delicate and where style didn't have to mean ostentatious.

The car is so classical in its design that Top Gear has commented ''If you don't like it, you're plainly wrong.''

So what of the important bits? Well the car reaches 0-60 in under 3.5 seconds, achieving a top speed of 180mph, showing that looks and performance can work together in harmony. Powering the Alfa is a 4.2 litre V8, providing 420 bhp through a 6 speed gearbox.

The question on most people's lips is cost... Such figures would be crass to broach surely, but as Top Gear puts it ''get out that blank check''

 

Lisa Hole, Gwent, SUBARU IMPREZA

Stephen Armstrong, Ramsgate, Renault Clio