Discovering the Iso Grifo: Italy’s Unsung Supercar Marvel of the 70s

In the heart of the swinging sixties, amidst the fervor of innovation and design that defined an era, emerged a masterpiece that would encapsulate the essence of Italian flair and engineering prowess - the Iso Grifo. A product of the visionary minds of engineer Giotto Bizzarrini and entrepreneur Renzo Rivolta, the Iso Grifo stands as a monument to a bygone era of automotive excellence that, to this day, stirs the souls of car enthusiasts worldwide.

The Birth of an Icon

The journey of the Iso Grifo began in 1963, marking the dawn of Iso Automobili S.p.A. At its core, this automobile was the result of a potent collaboration. Giotto Bizzarrini, celebrated for his seminal work with Ferrari, and Renzo Rivolta, who ventured from manufacturing refrigerators to automobiles, joined forces to create something truly exceptional. This collaboration resulted in the Iso Grifo, a perfect blend of ravishing style and formidable performance.

A Dream Team’s Creation

The development process was a testament to the synergy between innovation and artistry. Originally teaming up with Giorgetto Giugiaro, Bizzarrini and Rivolta aimed to surpass their previous creation, the Iso Rivolta IR 300. The Grifo’s design evolved from a partnership marked by both cooperation and eventual separation. Despite this, the Grifo GL fastback coupe took to the production lines in 1965, soon to be accompanied by a rare Targa variant, showcasing the true versatility and vision of its creators.

Engineering Mastery and Stylish Eloquence

• Vehicle Identification: Ser # GL020314.
• Exclusivity in Design: Limited Targa variant, showcasing aesthetic brilliance and engineering foresight.
• The Powerhouse: A 350ci Chevrolet V8 engine, epitomizing the fusion of Italian style with American muscle.
• Art on Wheels: Borrani wire wheels, panoramic glass rear window, and a meticulously crafted body.
• Modern Updates: Enhanced with air conditioning, electric power steering, and a refreshed braking system.

What makes the Iso Grifo particularly unique is not just its limited production numbers or its illustrious origins, but the story it tells of a time when the boundaries of creativity and engineering were constantly pushed to new heights. This car, originally finished in silver and later adorned in a captivating dark blue metallic, is a canvas that reflects the dreams and aspirations of its makers.

A Testament to Comfort and Innovation

The interior, a symphony of gray leather across bucket seats and the vehicle’s cabin, received a makeover in Italy in the early 2000s and further enhancements in 2023, combining classic aesthetics with modern comfort. This includes the addition of an air-conditioning system and a thorough update of the car’s power features, marrying the past’s charm with the present’s convenience.

The Soul of Performance

Under the hood, the Chevrolet V8 engine, overhauled for peak performance, together with an aluminum radiator and dual electric cooling fans, guarantees that the Iso Grifo’s roar is as captivating as its appearance. Tied to a ZF five-speed manual transmission and supported by a robust suspension system, it ensures a ride that’s as exhilarating as it is smooth.

A Legacy Remembered

The 1970 Iso Grifo Targa has graced some of the most prestigious automotive stages, from the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance to the Concorso Italiano, celebrating its storied history and the indelible mark it has left on the automotive world. Its narrative is one of inspiration, a beacon for those passionate about automotive design and history.

In exploring the story of the Iso Grifo, we uncover not just the specifications of an extraordinary vehicle but the spirit of an era that dared to dream. The Iso Grifo is more than a car; it’s a testament to the beauty of innovation, the harmony of collaborative genius, and the enduring allure of Italian design masterpieces.

For every enthusiast who has ever been captivated by the stories cars tell, the Iso Grifo stands as a reminder of the heights automotive artistry can reach when passion meets precision. It's a journey back in time, a dive into the heart of Italian automotive culture, and a narrative that continues to enchant to this day.