Description

The Alfa Romeo GT 1300 Junior Zagato, introduced in 1969, was a sleek and lightweight sports coupe designed by the renowned Italian coachbuilder Zagato. Based on the mechanical underpinnings of the GT 1300 Junior, it featured a more aerodynamic and compact body, emphasizing performance and agility. This model was part of Alfa Romeo’s long-standing collaboration with Zagato, which specialized in crafting lightweight and aerodynamically efficient designs.

Unlike the standard GT 1300 Junior, the Zagato version had a distinctive wedge-shaped body with sharp lines and a more modern, minimalist aesthetic. The front end featured a low nose with retractable headlights behind Plexiglas covers, a smooth grille, and a sculpted hood that improved airflow. The rear end had a distinctive Kammback design, optimizing aerodynamics and giving the car a unique profile.

Powering the GT 1300 Junior Zagato was Alfa Romeo’s proven 1,290 cc twin-cam inline-four engine, producing around 89 horsepower. This might seem modest, but with a lightweight body and well-tuned suspension, the car offered an engaging and responsive driving experience. A five-speed manual gearbox ensured smooth power delivery, and disc brakes on all four wheels provided excellent stopping power.

Despite its stylish design and sporting character, the GT 1300 Junior Zagato remained a niche model. Alfa Romeo produced around 1,108 units before replacing it with the more powerful 1600 Junior Zagato in 1972. Today, it is a highly collectible classic, admired for its distinctive styling, rarity, and connection to Alfa Romeo’s racing heritage.