1973 ISO Grifo Coupe

The Iso Grifo was introduced in 1965 and was regularly updated throughout its production lifespan. In 1970, Bertone's head designer Marcello Gandini designed a new front-end treatment for the Grifo, complete with pop-u eyelids over the headlights. The updated Iso Grifo was referred to as the 'Series II' model and was unveiled at the Turin Auto Show in October 1970.

In 1972, Iso began talks with Ford, whose new 351 Cleveland engine would eventually replace Chevrolet's small-block V8. The first Ford-powered Iso Grifo left the factory on April 18th, 1972. The engine was available with a ZF five-speed or a Ford Cruise-O-Matic transmission. The tall 351 Cleveland V8 required ample clearance, thus the 'Penthouse' hood scoop design.

Iso produced just 34 examples equipped with the Cleveland engine, which was a small percentage of the 402 Iso Grifos built.

This particular example, a Series II version, is one of only 16 examples built during 1973, the last full year of production. A certification of origin was issued on November 23rd, 1973, and was sold through Iso S.p.A. to Augusto Dona of Bressanone, Italy.

The second owner, Oscar Amadio of Trevesio, Italy, purchased the car on October 7th, 1975, and retained it until 2012, when it was sold through a Belgian broker to an enthusiast in California. In August 2012, it made its only concours outing when it was displayed at the Quail Motorsports Gathering in Carmel Valley, California.

The odometer currently shows just 49,275 km. It is finished in metallic blue livery and rides on center-lock Campagnolo alloy wheels and Pirelli Cinturato HS tires. Other period features include VIS and Sekurit glass, Vitalioni mirrors, and Carello accessories. There are proper Iso Rivolta valve covers, a Ford intake manifold, Fiamm horns, and a large-capacity Firsat radiator.

The interior is finished in medium blue leather upholstery. There are Veglia Borletti instruments, Klippan seat belts, a Voxson Quadrophonic stereo, and a Nardi steering wheel. Options include air-conditioning and an automatic transmission.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2014