Work on the TZ began in 1960 and the first road trials were conducted in 1961. However, it took a long time to reach production because precedence was given to the new Giulia and 2600 models.

Zagato, who had bodied previous competition Giulias, was entrusted to create the body. Zagatos lightweight aluminum bodies were ideally suited for the TZ's advanced chassis. Their recent advances in aerodynamics led the inclusion of a Kamm Tail which helped raise stability without introducing drag.

Wanting a return to serious racing, company president Giuseppe Luraghi had Oarzio Satta approach ex-Ferrari engineer Carlo Chiti to produce the Tubulare Zagato (TZ). Chiti then setup Autodelta in March of 1963 to foster this new agreement. As the TZ1 progressed and became successful, Autodelta increasingly became Alfa Romeo's racing wing until the company was eventually purchased by the firm.

After its sporting debut in minor races, the Giulia TZ1 was immediately able to make its mark in demanding races such as the FISA Cup in Monza in 1963, at the Sebring 12-hour race, the 48th Targa Florio, the 1000 km Nurburgring, the Le Mans 24-hour race, the Tour of France, the Coupe des Alpes, and the Tour of Corsica. These victories confirm the great class of a car suitable not only for track racing, but also for more demanding road circuits.

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