The Iso Grifo was a limited-production 1960s Italian sports coupe, styled by the emerging genius of Giorgetto Giugiaro and developed under the watchful eye of Giotto Bizzarrini, the ex-Ferrari engineer who was largely responsible for the 250 GTO. A long-hood, short-deck gran turismo, stunningly proportioned and exquisitely detailed, the Grifo was powered by either a big- or small-block Corvette V-8 or, in later models, a Ford 351 Cleveland engine.

Compared with other Italian marques utilizing more complex V-12 engines, the addition of American V-8 power meant greater reliability, outstanding torque, low operating costs, not to mention the fantastic performance that was a direct result of Chevrolet and Ford’s world-beating racing programs of the 1960s.

According to Chris Lackner’s Iso Grifo Registry, this stunning example, chassis 840212, was completed on October 15, 1968, in Iso’s Bresso, Italy workshops, delivered new to an Italian owner and specified with a 350 hp Chevrolet 327 cid V-8, four-speed manual gearbox, and air-conditioning. The Grifo is also equipped with power windows, a Becker Europa II AM/FM radio, knock-off wheels, and Veglia instrumentation. Warm wood veneer, a Nardi three-spoke, wood-rimmed steering wheel with Grifo center cap, and sumptuous tan leather round out the inviting, luxuriously appointed cabin. Exterior highlights include delicate push-button door releases, signature vented flanks, and a striking collection of Bertone and Iso badging – the centerpiece being a nose-mounted rearing griffon, the mythical namesake of the Grifo itself.

840212 also enjoys distinguished provenance, having been a part of Californiabased Iso Grifo enthusiast Randy Simon’s collection. Simon sold it to noted collectors and multiple Pebble Beach-award winners Sam and Emily Mann, who had the car repainted silver, reupholstered in tan leather, and had various mechanical systems attended to.

The Grifo today makes a striking impression, with fantastic details throughout – among them diamond-quilted engine bay insulation and finned aluminum rocker covers proudly bearing “Corvette” script. As of 2022, the Grifo had reportedly received a carburetor tune, replacement of control arm bushings, five new tires and the installation of new wheel spinners. In current ownership, it has received attention to its air-conditioning system, clutch, and gearbox, documented by records on file.

One of the most charismatic Italian GTs of the era, the Grifo was born of rare, creative alignment between three automotive titans – Giugiaro, Bizzarrini, and Chevrolet – and it offers an experience that is as distinctive as its bloodline: expressive, elemental, and unforgettable.

*Please note that this vehicle is titled as 840212.