ONE of the world's most iconic performance cars has achieved its half century.

Alfa Romeo is marking the 50 anniversary of the legendary 33 Stradale, a model renowned for its blend of cutting-edge technology, racing mechanics and beauty.

Designed by Franco Scaglione, the 33 Stradale was first debuted on August 31, 1967, on the eve of the Italian Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Monza.

A true example of the Italian marque's values, the 33 Stradale combines timeless beauty with technology derived from the Tipo 33, Alfa Romeo's legendary race cars.

The 33 Stradale is also adorned with the iconic Quadrifoglio, the four-leaf clover badge first used by racing driver Ugo Sivocci in 1923 and now as a modern-day mark of best-in-class performance technology, as demonstrated in the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio.

Alfa Romeo is commemorating the 33 Stradale and the 33 project of racing cars with a special exhibition at the Museo Storico Alfa Romeo in Arese, Milan.

Alongside a prototype 33 Stradale, the display includes five of the six concept cars derived from the 33 chassis, including Carabo, Iguana, 33/2 Speciale, Cuneo and Navajo. Also on display are the 33/2 Daytona, 33/3, 33 TT12 and 33 SC12 turbo racing cars.

It is the first in a programme of events run by Alfa Romeo, the Museo Storico and FCA Heritage, the department dedicated to promoting the historic legacy of FCA's Italian brands, to celebrate the 33 Stradale's landmark anniversary.