Description
The Alfa Romeo GTAm was one of the most successful and extreme racing versions of the Giulia Sprint GT, developed by Autodelta, Alfa Romeo’s official competition department. Introduced in 1970, the GTAm was designed to dominate Group 2 touring car racing and became a formidable competitor in the European Touring Car Championship (ETCC), where it secured multiple victories and championship titles.
The GTAm was based on the 1750 GT Veloce but underwent extensive modifications for competition. Despite the “Am” designation, which stood for “Alleggerita Maggiorata” (lightened and enlarged), the car was not actually lighter than its predecessor, the GTA. Instead, it featured a steel body with aluminum and fiberglass components to reduce weight, while widened fender flares accommodated larger racing tires. The aggressive stance, flared wheel arches, and deep front spoiler gave the GTAm an unmistakable presence on the track.
Under the hood, the GTAm was powered by a heavily modified 1,985 cc twin-cam inline-four engine, enlarged from the original 1,779 cc displacement. It was equipped with a Spica mechanical fuel injection system, high-compression pistons, a revised cylinder head, and aggressive camshafts. Depending on tuning specifications, the GTAm produced between 220 and 240 horsepower, a significant increase over the standard road-going version. A close-ratio five-speed gearbox and a limited-slip differential helped transfer this power to the rear wheels, providing excellent acceleration and grip.
The car’s suspension was optimized for racing, featuring stiffer springs, adjustable dampers, and reinforced components for improved handling and durability. Large disc brakes on all four wheels provided exceptional stopping power, essential for high-speed racing. The combination of power, precise steering, and a well-balanced chassis made the GTAm a formidable competitor, capable of outperforming rivals with more powerful engines.
On the track, the GTAm quickly established itself as the car to beat in European touring car racing. It won the European Touring Car Championship in 1970 and 1971, regularly competing against and defeating factory-backed teams from BMW and Ford. Its combination of reliability, agility, and outright speed made it a favorite among privateers and professional racers alike.
Today, the Alfa Romeo GTAm is considered one of the most iconic racing Alfas ever built. With only a limited number produced and even fewer surviving, it is a highly sought-after collector’s car. Whether seen at historic racing events or showcased in prestigious collections, the GTAm remains a symbol of Alfa Romeo’s engineering excellence and racing heritage.