If there’s one thing Alfa Romeo knows how to do, it’s how to make car lovers feel something special. The Italian automaker, known for its passionate design and racing heritage, marked its 115th anniversary in true Alfa fashion, with a celebration that was more like an art show, car festival, and party all rolled into one. The event, called Macchinissima III, took place in Los Angeles, and it wasn’t your typical car gathering. It was a full-blown celebration of speed, style, and Italian spirit.

A Night of Lights, Music, and Legendary Cars

Fans packed the venue, crowding around Alfa Romeo’s modern masterpiece, the 33 Stradale, as its elegant butterfly doors lifted open to cheers and camera flashes. The supercar stood proudly at the center of the event, flanked by two of its ancestors, a 1931 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Gran Sport Spider by Zagato and a 1957 Alfa Romeo 1900 SSZ. Together, they told a story of how Alfa’s design and engineering have evolved over more than a century.

This year’s Macchinissima wasn’t just about Alfa Romeo; it was a showcase of Italy’s influence on the automotive world. From shiny Ferraris and Maseratis to vintage Vespas and even a rare Laforza SUV, the event brought together icons from every corner of Italian motoring.

But for Alfa Romeo, the night was about more than nostalgia. It was a reminder of what the brand stands for, and a glimpse at how it plans to stay relevant in a rapidly changing world where electric cars are taking center stage.

Reflecting on Alfa’s Glorious Past

The venue itself looked like something from a dream. A giant mirrored globe hovered over the 33 Stradale, reflecting the lights and creating a retro-futuristic vibe. Around it, rows of priceless cars gleamed under soft lighting, a Ferrari 250 TDF, a Maserati A6G Berlinetta by Zagato, and a Ferrari 275 GTS by Pininfarina, among others.

Event organizer Dorian Valenzuela, who helped put together Macchinissima, described the show’s playful tone best:

“We want to do a show that’s a little bit innovative, a little bit cheeky, and doesn’t take itself too seriously,” he said. Check more photos

That spirit was clear in the so-called Red Room, inspired by The Shining. With red décor, vintage typewriters repeating the famous line “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” and photos of the Overlook Hotel, the space was both eerie and fun, a perfect blend of art, cinema, and automotive history.

Classic Meets Modern

Across multiple lots, cars from different eras faced off like old friends. A Ferrari Dino 246 GT stood opposite a brand-new Ferrari 296 GTB, while Lamborghini Miuras shared space with the futuristic Revuelto V-12.

Inside another hall, color and creativity dominated. Visitors admired the sleek lines of a Maserati Ghibli, a Lancia Fulvia Sport Zagato, and a Ferrari 512 BBi. Among these Italian gems was a rare Pegaso Z-102, a Spanish coupe with ties to Alfa Romeo through its designer, Wifredo Ricart.

But Macchinissima wasn’t just for hardcore car enthusiasts. The organizers wanted everyone to enjoy the show, even those more interested in art, music, or fashion. “We like to invite friends who might not be car people,” Valenzuela said. “Maybe they’re into art, or maybe they’re into music, and that’s the point. There’s something for everyone.”

A DJ played Italo-disco, house, and punk, while guests enjoyed pizza, espresso, and cocktails. A Lamborghini owner even popped open a bottle of prosecco from his frunk (front trunk) and shared it with nearby friends.

Alfa Romeo’s Modern Moment

Macchinissima III wasn’t just a party; it was also the Los Angeles debut of the new Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale, the brand’s most exciting car in years. Designed as a spiritual successor to the legendary 1968 Tipo 33 Stradale, the modern version combines Alfa’s racing DNA with futuristic technology.

Only 33 units of the new 33 Stradale will ever be built, handcrafted by the famous Italian coachbuilder Touring Superleggera. Buyers can choose between a twin-turbo V6 engine or a fully electric powertrain, blending tradition with the future of performance.

Valenzuela couldn’t hide his admiration:

“The original 33 Stradale is one of the most beautiful cars ever made. Somehow, Alfa managed to create something equally breathtaking today.”

Alfa’s Struggles and Its Hopes

Despite the stunning debut, Alfa Romeo’s path hasn’t been easy. After its revival under Sergio Marchionne, who brought the brand back to the U.S., Alfa launched the 4C, followed by the Giulia sedan and Stelvio SUV. While both cars were praised for their performance and design, they are now nearly a decade old.

The newer Tonale, a small luxury SUV, joined the lineup recently, but it hasn’t been a major hit. And the upcoming Junior Zagato, an electric SUV, still faces regulatory hurdles before it can reach American buyers.

Even so, Alfa refuses to fade away. The company is planning updates to its Giulia and Stelvio models and has hinted at a new halo car that could lead its next generation of vehicles.

A Look Toward the Future

As the night wound down, the excitement didn’t. Macchinissima organizers said they plan to keep the event going, expanding its themes beyond cars to include fashion, motorcycles, and music.

“We want to focus on quality over growth,” Valenzuela said. “We’re not trying to make it bigger every year if it means losing what makes it special.”

That philosophy seems to mirror Alfa Romeo’s own story. While it may not have the massive popularity of brands like Ferrari or Lamborghini, it still commands fierce loyalty from fans who love its mix of passion, performance, and design.

And judging by the turnout at its 115th birthday bash, Alfa’s faithful aren’t going anywhere. Whether it’s roaring engines, artful design, or the emotional pull of Italian heritage, Alfa Romeo still knows how to make people fall in love, one beautiful car at a time.

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