Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada 1966 - World Of Classic Cars -

Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada 1966

After working for Alfa Romeo, Dr. Ing. Giotto Bizzarrini went to Ferrari, but he was one of many of the company’s personnel to revolt and lose their jobs after the controversial sacking of Ferrari’s sales manager at the end of 1961. As the prime mover behind the 250 GTO and 250 Testa Rossa, Bizzarrini’s pedigree was exemplary and he was quickly asked to design the 350 GT V-12 engine for Lamborghini.
Bizzarrini returned to car manufacturing in 1962 with backing from Dr. Renzo Rivolta. A 2+2 coupé was the first car produced and this was followed by their next project, the 2-seat Grifo. The Bertone design was constructed by Pierro Drogo and was considered one of the stylist’s most stunning creations.

Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada 1966

The Iso Grifo became known as the Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada after Rivolta and Bizzarrini ended their collaboration. Convinced of its competition potential, Bizzarrini was soon racing the car with great success. The Bizzarrini Strada had lightweight aluminium bodywork and a fabricated platform chassis, the semi-monocoque body was riveted to the frame for added stiffness, and this, along with excellent weight distribution, resulted in excellent handling. Depending on the engine fitted and its configuration a top speed of up to 180 mph was claimed.

Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada 1966

The example shown here, Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada, chassis number IA30247, was acquired several years ago by Giuseppe Prevosti to join his growing collection. It is understood that this car was involved in an accident and was imported to Italy for complete restoration. No expense was spared in ensuring that the restoration, undertaken by marque specialist Salvatore Diomante, was carried out to the very highest possible standard – a fact borne out by the beautiful and very straight condition of the car today.

Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada 1966

Finished in a very elegant and sporting combination of silver with black leather interior, this car has been little used since restoration; the paintwork is described as near perfect, and the chrome, trim, and interior are similarly in as-new condition.
Giotto Bizzarrini – the ‘Father’ of the 250 GTO – said of this car, ‘I started with the idea of the Ferrari GTO and set about trying to improve on it.’