Alfa Romeo RLSS Zagato

Vehicle Overview

The Alfa Romeo RLSS Zagato (Super Sport) is an iconic vehicle from the 1920s, renowned for its blend of performance, elegance, and innovative design. In 1926, one of these remarkable cars, with a 3-liter engine, was bodied by the esteemed coachbuilder Zagato and delivered to General Emilio De Bono, who was then the governor of Tripolitania, a region in modern-day Libya. The Alfa Romeo RLSS was part of the RL series, which was produced from 1922 to 1927. The RL series was known for its robust engineering, featuring a straight-six engine that was ahead of its time. The RLSS, being the Super Sport variant, was the pinnacle of the series, equipped with a larger 3-liter engine capable of producing around 83 horsepower. This made the RLSS not only a luxurious touring car but also a competitive machine in motorsport, which was rapidly gaining popularity in the 1920s. Ugo Zagato, who had established his coachbuilding firm in 1919, was already making a name for himself with his lightweight, aerodynamically efficient designs. When Zagato took on the task of bodying the Alfa Romeo RLSS for General De Bono, he infused the car with his signature design philosophy. The result was a vehicle that combined Alfa Romeo’s mechanical excellence with Zagato’s streamlined, elegant bodywork. The car featured sleek, flowing lines, a long bonnet, and a compact passenger compartment, all of which contributed to its sporty yet sophisticated appearance. The delivery of this bespoke Alfa Romeo RLSS to General Emilio De Bono symbolized the intersection of political power and automotive prestige during the Fascist era. The car was not just a mode of transportation but also a statement of status and innovation, reflecting the advanced engineering and design capabilities of Italy at the time. This vehicle remains a significant piece of automotive history, representing both the craftsmanship of Zagato and the prominence of Alfa Romeo in the early 20th century.