Iso only made 14 Series 1 Grifo targas. It is arguably one of the rarest cars in the world, but also one of the most beautiful. That was certainly the opinion of this Iso’s second owner, who, in 1968, had this coupe (number 79) converted to a targa, as per factory specifications. This car is, make no mistake, the wheeled embodiment of being the highest form of flattery. A stunning machine that looks every bit like a factory-built targa.
Since 1966, it is clear that this rare car has been used sparingly, and stored with utmost care between use. It is a remarkable find, one that will most likely never be repeated. More than a car, this 1966 Iso Grifo Series 1 Targs is rolling art with the added bonus of a glorious V8 soundtrack. Perfection. 46.JPG3.28 MB
The History and Paperwork
Original technical information
German registration document
Electrical diagrams
Chassis/build information
Completed, according to supplied documentation, on the 19th of August 1966, this incredibly rare Iso Grifo was one of just 330 cars built in Series 1 guise. Not content with that level of rarity, however, the car’s second owner upped the stakes by having the car converted to targa specification in 1968. It’s unclear which coachbuilder carried out the conversion, but given how well it has been done, and how faithfully it replicates that of the 14 ‘official’ cars built by Iso, it’s safe to say it was a company at the top of its game.
Despite having built himself the very definition of rolling rarity, the second owner barely used the car and instead sold it to a close friend. In turn, the third owner enjoyed it for a while, but without racking a mileage of any consequence, before selling it to the fourth owner. Happily though, the fourth was in fact the same person who ordered the conversion - the second owner. He obviously missed it, as the car is still under his custodianship today. He’s used it, as the mileage clarified, sparingly. As such, this truly unique machine is in remarkable, original condition throughout.
Outstanding, seemingly all original condition throughout
Swing open that impossibly long door and slide into this very, very Italian interior. Fine leather aplenty, thanks to the Lusso specification, none showing any damage or wear, deep carpets, fine wood and a pleasing selection of exposed metal await. Roof on, it’s a welcoming, comforting space. The wood-rim ‘personal’ steering wheel falls to hand with a pleasing familiarity.
The look ahead is framed by a selection of fully functional Veglia gauges, wood veneer and more leather. It’s an occasion, sitting here. One you won’t be able to get enough of. And everything functions as it should, all the buttons, switches and levers, as one would expect from a car with such minor mileage.
Roof off, the experience is altered completely. Everything becomes more visceral and alive. It’s remarkable what the absence of some metal can do, but you also soon understand why Iso did it in the first place. And while this conversion may not have been done at the factory, it has been done very well indeed. The fit and finish is excellent, the now modified upper frame of the screen has been crafted perfectly. It feels… proper.
Only minor age related marks as shown in the gallery
All chrome and brightwork in good order
Campagnola magnesium wheels
Removable targa roof
Just look at it. Take a moment to pore over the pictures and drink in the lines of this frankly stunning machine. It was penned by none other than Giorgetto Giugiaro and it shows. The bold lines, the style, the car’s ability to look like it’s going 100mph even when it’s parked. That’s special. And this 1966 is every bit the stunner today that it was then. The Grifo has been cared for with facetious attention to detail, it’s presumably never seen adverse weather, it’s never come into contact with anything. It is stunning.
Then of course, we have the roof section, or lack thereof depending on the weather. The conversion was carried to specifications matching those of the factory, and as such, the conversion is spot on. The cut has been made expertly, and the new lips and folded metal have been fettled and re-shaped with precision. The roof section clips in with ease, though it’s probably best done with another person to help. Once in, there is supple rubber weather stripping and seals, so that should the heavens open, you’ll stay dry.
Iso played it safe with the engine, in the best possible way. It had history with powerplants from America, and this Grifo would be no exception. Under the bonnet you’ll find a 5.4-litre (327cui) Chevrolet V8 from the mighty Corvette. Backing 300hp of American muscle, it was the perfect choice for such a car. Loud, but soulful and with huge buckets of power, it gave the Grifo its heart. The 14 targas were all manual, however this one is a three-speed automatic, which arguably makes it a proper GT car. Not to mention the definition of unique.
The engine, the inboard disc brakes, the chassis, the suspension… it’s all in fine fettle. It’s in good health and is ready for whatever journey you task it with. We have noted a few drops of oil under the car however, which is pretty common for these older machines.
Interestingly and despite the low production numbers, being largely American, parts are easily available, both for regular upkeep or, should you wish, the pursuit of even more power. 41.JPG3.54 MB
Summary
The Iso Grifo is rare anyway. Just 330 were built after all. The Targa was even rarer, making up just 14 of that 330. This bespoke version might not be a factory targa, but it is without question, the rarest Igo Grifo out there. A Series 1, a targa, and an automatic. There is, at least not to our knowledge, another car matching this specification.
It’s a work of art, thanks to the V8 is a soulful rolling wall of sound and with just 6,082km on the clock it is as close to original as you’ll find. This is a car you’re only going to be presented with the opportunity to buy once, make no mistake.
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