The Alfa Romeo 155 Ti-z

The Alfa Romeo 155 T.I.Z. is a 155Q4 "boosted" by Zagato Design. The increased power, the wings are expanded to accommodate larger wheels. A treatment that is very similar to that, some years ago, transformed the Delta HF 4WD in Delta HF Integrale.

The 155 Q4 sales, have never reached the level expected by Alfa Romeo. This 155 which contains the engine and the transmission of the Delta HF Integrale is not convincing. "Lack of personality? Without doubt, and to extract her high range from anonymity, Alfa has decided to entrust to Zagato Desing the study of 155Q4 more muscular. Thus was born the 155T.I.Z. (International Tourism Zagato). While awaiting the green light from the Alfa responsible for production of small series, two prototypes have been built. One of them has gone to Japan. The other, Zagato has left us to carry out this report. The Italian coachbuilder's first job was to place the 2 liter turbo powerful 16V motor mounted on the latest generation of Delta HF Integrale. A new electronic parameters, increased boost pressure and engine power increased from 190 to 215 hp (DIN).

The complete transmission and identical to the Delta, has not been modified. Then, the silhouette of 155Q4 has been redesigned to give a rise to new features. Observed immediately flattened base, an extension of the wings to the way of the Delta allowing to increase the axes (+22 mm front, +30 mm rear), and a front bumper with a prominent DTM style skirt. Zagato Design has also anticipated the installation of a spoiler on the cover of the trunk, but it had not finished it for our photos. Finally, the final touch is provided by the alloy wheels of 17 inches in diameter, 6.5 inches wide at the front and 7.5 rear. Receive of Pirelli P Zero 205/45, index Z. Ultimately, few changes, but enough to change the physiognomy of high-end of Alfa 155. It is indeed unfortunate that evolution has not been most advanced. His train rear trailing arms, derived from the type, has not reached the same degree of sophistication and effectiveness than the Delta. However, the Zagato design project has the advantage of being realistic. The TIZ is ready to be produced, and could be without requiring huge investments. The ball is placed on the playing field for Alfa, but the Milanese manufacturer apparently has other plans in mind.

The 155 Ti-z will be revealed next month at the Geneva Motor Show. There is talk of an extension of the axes (+26 mm), and especially a new set of 2 liters Twin Spark 16V and cast-iron block that develops 160 horsepower. In this new range that could take the nickname it is not known yet if the version Q4 it will prorogue. The T.I.Z. Zagato is finally ready, but the Q4 is possible that the end is near

 

... Zagato puts his signature on the cylinder head and mounted 17-inch wheels.