In response to the popularity of Isotta Fraschini’s Tipo 8 model, the premier Italian manufacturer built 950 Tipo 8As between 1924 and 1932. The new and impressive 7.3-liter straight-eight engine provided a significant power increase over the former 5.9-liter engine and the automaker claimed its 8A could reach 93 mph, regardless of the coachwork assigned. So popular was the marque, it became the darling of the stars of the silver screen – with Rudolph Valentino owning not one, but two Isotta Fraschinis.

In the early 1930s, one of the most acclaimed coachbuilders was Carrozzeria Touring of Milan, famed for its elegant and light designs. Tasked with creating coachwork for an Isotta Fraschini 8A, no. 1681, Touring created a truly superlative automobile featuring a contoured windshield, sweeping “loveheart” profile accented with chrome moldings, and a waning tail. With its swooping lines and tapering silhouette, the overall effect was that of a blazing comet, hence the moniker “Flying Star.”

The car was presented at the Milan Motor Show in 1931 and won First Prize at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. Unfortunately, little is known of its subsequent history, although it is purported to have fallen into the hands of Benito Mussolini at some juncture. Only one thing is sure – the Flying Star vanished and was never seen again.

Inspired by the beauty and sorrowed at the loss of the Flying Star, a marque aficionado decided to re-create the automobile. The project began with this example, chassis 687, an original 1927 Tipo 8A with a 135" wheelbase. As stated by the Registro Storico Isotta Fraschini document on file, the car was delivered new to a Archbishop Eris O’Brien of Sydney, Australia. Found in Australia sporting non-original British sedan coachwork, the car was a perfect candidate for this type of project. The Flying Star was re-created in Australia with meticulous attention to detail and the final result is remarkable – a sublime reincarnation of a stunning one-off.

The car was owned by Jorge and Maria Fernandez as part of their private collection until 2001, when it was sold to Paul Emple. Since then, the Flying Star has become one of the most acclaimed Isotta Fraschinis in America. Its accolades include awards at prestigious events such as the Pebble Beach Concours (Second in Class), Amelia Island Concours (Best in Class), and Meadow Brook and Greystone Concours. As testimony to its significance, the Flying Star was featured in Collectible Automobile in 2007, and the cover story in Vintage Road & Racecar, in 2012, in which John Nikas states, “There are few cars with more beauty or grace than the Isotta…The Flying Star has the stage presence that only a real star could appreciate…or afford.”

Breathtakingly stunning to look at, this gorgeous tribute to the one and only Isotta Fraschini Flying Star will demand celebrity status wherever it is shown.

*Please note that this vehicle is titled 1930.