The Iso Grifo GL Series I is a true masterpiece, born from the collaboration of some of the greatest minds in Italian engineering. With the expertise of former Ferrari chief engineer Giotto Bizzarrini, the design genius of Giorgetto Giugiaro, and the craftsmanship of revered coachbuilders Bertone, the Iso Grifo is an embodiment of power and elegance.
A Gran Turismo Marvel
The Iso Grifo is more than just a car; it is a symbol of speed, performance, and luxury. With its muscular coachwork built by Bertone, the Grifo boasts an advanced chassis with a de Dion rear axle and inboard brakes. This configuration reduces unsprung weight, allowing for superior handling and a smoother ride. Under the hood, the Grifo is powered by a Chevrolet 327-cubic-inch V-8 engine, delivering both ample performance and outstanding reliability. This engine, borrowed from contemporary Corvettes, ensures that the Grifo lives up to its reputation as a true gran turismo. Production of the Iso Grifo spanned into the early 1970s, with a total of 413 examples crafted in various configurations.
A Legacy of Excellence
This particular Iso Grifo GL Series I was completed on October 15, 1968, and originally delivered in Italy. It has a prestigious ownership history, previously belonging to the respected East Coast restorer Mark Goyette. In early 2019, it found its way into the esteemed Elkhart Collection, having been acquired from the stable of multiple Pebble Beach Best of Show-winners Sam and Emily Mann.
A Timeless Beauty
While the Iso Grifo GL has undergone a restoration in the past, it still retains its original power and allure. The heart of this stunning machine is a 350-horsepower, 327-cubic-inch Chevrolet V-8 engine, paired with a four-speed manual transmission and a 3.07:1 rear axle. The engine bay is meticulously detailed, showcasing diamond-quilted insulation and sound deadening, typical finishes of an Italian GT from this era. Inside, the Grifo boasts a tasteful tan leather interior, including the center console, adorned with Veglia Borletti instrumentation, a Kienzle clock, a Becker Europa II AM/FM radio, air conditioning, power windows, and a Nardi-Personal three-spoke wood-rimmed steering wheel with a Grifo-badged hub. The exterior features an attractive Talbot-style side-view mirror and sporty Campagnolo center-lock wheels. Recent routine maintenance has been performed on the car, including a carburetor retune, new upper and lower control arm bushings, new tires mounted and balanced, and new knock-off spinners.
A Testament to Speed
Once capable of reaching autostrada speeds upwards of 140 mph, the Iso Grifo solidified its place as one of the fastest production cars in the world. Today, it remains a celebrated and rare model, capturing the hearts of automotive enthusiasts around the globe. With recent maintenance and meticulous care, this Iso Grifo GL Series I is ready to leave a lasting impression wherever it goes.
Remember, for more exciting automotive content, don’t forget to visit MMSPLAY.
