Bizzarrini 5300 GT (1965)

Giotto Bizzarrini, the founder of Bizzarrini S.p.A, was a former Alfa Romeo, Ferrari and ISO engineer. His company specialised in the construction of highly advanced sports and racing cars, before their demise in 1969. Giotto Bizzarrini first worked for Alfa Romeo before he moved to Ferrari and was famously the chief engineer and mastermind behind the iconic and legendary Ferrari 250 GTO, now considered the most desirable Ferrari of all time. Following a dispute with Enzo Ferrari, Bizzarrini left and went to work for the ISO company with the aim of building a car to outperform the Ferraris on the race track. The 5300 GT Strada was launched in 1965 and proved to be the company's most successful enterprise. Under the bonnet of this low-slung, 2 seater was a Chevrolet V8. This 5.3-litre engine provided the power and this, combined with the stunning Italian styling, made for an exciting cocktail and a unique blend.

This is a genuine, early Bizzarrini which was inspected by Jack Koobs de Hartog, who is very much a recognised expert on Bizzarrinis and has written several books on the cars. The car was built at the end of 1965 when Piero Rivolta and Bizzarrini fell out and therefore, although much of the car would have been built alongside other ISO A3/C s, it was originally badged as a Bizzarrini.

This example is 1 of just 12 of a total of 73 5300 GTs built with a lightweight aluminium body and De-Dion rear suspension. These cars were one of the first to pair the Italian prowess and sophistication with the brute of an American-sourced powerplant. With known ownership from new, this Bizzarrini was supplied new the USA where it remained until 2002.

• Supplied new by Bizzarrini to the USA
• 2nd Owner - Carey Loftin - LA
• 3rd Owner - Bill DeCarr - LA
• 4th Owner - Rudy Klein - LA
• 5th Owner - Ron Spindler - LA
• 6th Owner - Scott Stupay - Virginia
• 7th Owner – Jamie McIntyre - UK

This example has recently been treated to a full recommissioning by specialist preparers, Pursuit, to match the specification of the first ISO A3/C Corsa; a car which, unlike the Bizzarrini-badged cars, raced in early 1964. This was an important factor; as the car needed to be able to gain entry to Goodwood. It is also worth noting that all original parts that were removed during the rebuild have been carefully retained, including all interior trim and brightwork. There are disc brakes all round, independent front suspension and a De-Dion rear axle. The engine BHP has been reduced from just over 470bhp to 448bhp in favour of a more linear curve and increased torque. As such, the car is eligible for numerous events during the racing calendar, including the Goodwood TT, the Spa Six Hours and the Masters historic racing series where it would be without doubt a front runner in the right hands.

The restoration process included a distinct focus on weight-saving where possible, with the outcome being a reduction of over 30kgs. A bespoke, inconel, silenced exhuast system was developed and fitted. Amends were made to the car to ensure it conformed to HTP regulations and tipping the scales at a scant 1,098kg, it meets the minimum homologated weight. Accompanying the car are a large number of documents and photographs of the rebuild and of the car in its dismantled state.

As well as a full gearbox and differential refresh, the overhaul included engine dyno testing, damper testing, a brake rebuild and subsequent testing to ensure this example is ready to race. This Bizzarrini presents today once more in it period livery and available to view by appointment immediately. HTP papers are in process and will be supplied with the car

• Restored to ISO A3/C Specification
• Weighing in at the minimum homologated/legal weight
• Vast spares package including all original removed parts & material
• Previous Goodwood TT entrant
• Eligible for numerous events; Goodwood TT, Spa Six Hours, Masters Historic
• 448bhp engine by industry-leading engine builder Peter Knight
• Post restoration laps at Goodwood saw the car set a time that would have put it on pole for 2023 Goodwood TT
• Supplied with fresh HTP papers