Alfa Romeo SZ

vs

Alfa Romeo P3

Italy vs Italy — 1989 vs 1932

Alfa Romeo SZ (1989)
Alfa Romeo P3 (1932)
Specifications
SZ ES-30 Sprint ZagatoP3 Tipo B Grand Prix
Horsepower210 hp215 hp
Torque181 lb-ft
Engine Size2,959 cc2,654 cc
0-60 mph6.8 sec
Top Speed152 mph162 mph
¼ Mile14.9 sec
Weight2,778 lbs1,543 lbs
Wheelbase2,510 mm2,650 mm
Length4,058 mm3,950 mm
Units Produced1,0366
Original MSRP$80,000
Value (Excellent)$200,000$40,000,000
Collectibility8/1010/10
Rarity7/1010/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1932 Alfa Romeo P3 Tipo B Grand Prix with higher top speed, lighter weight, greater rarity. The 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ ES-30 Sprint Zagato offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

Alfa Romeo has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ ES-30 Sprint Zagato with the 1932 Alfa Romeo P3 Tipo B Grand Prix highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ ES-30 Sprint Zagato producing 210 hp and the 1932 Alfa Romeo P3 Tipo B Grand Prix delivering 215 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Alfa Romeo SZ uses a V6 SOHC 12V displacing 2,959 cc, while the Alfa Romeo P3 relies on a Straight-8 DOHC Supercharged with 2,654 cc. The 1932 Alfa Romeo P3 Tipo B Grand Prix claims a higher top speed at 162 mph compared to 152 mph. The Alfa Romeo P3 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1235 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 6 units built, the 1932 Alfa Romeo P3 Tipo B Grand Prix is considerably scarcer than the Alfa Romeo SZ's 1,036 examples. On the collector market, the 1932 Alfa Romeo P3 Tipo B Grand Prix commands a significant premium over the 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ ES-30 Sprint Zagato, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1932 Alfa Romeo P3 Tipo B Grand Prix rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.