The 1969 Iso Grifo might look like a classic Italian grand tourer, but under the hood, it’s all American muscle. Styled in Italy and powered by a Chevrolet big-block V8, the Grifo was a high-speed contradiction—elegant on the outside, brutal underneath. While it never reached mainstream fame, it quietly blended two engineering philosophies into one unforgettable package.
Designed by Giugiaro, Built by Bizzarrini
The 1969 Iso Grifo combined sharp Italian design with solid American muscle. Styled by Giorgetto Giugiaro while at Bertone, the Grifo wore classic long-hood proportions and clean lines. Underneath, Giotto Bizzarrini engineered a chassis derived from his A3/C race car design, giving the Grifo legitimate performance cred. The result was a GT that didn’t just look fast—it was built with that purpose in mind.
Corvette-Powered from the Start
Early Grifos were fitted with Chevrolet’s 327-cubic inch small block, but by 1969, Iso had moved up to the 427 big block V8. This wasn’t just a crate motor drop-in; Iso reworked cooling, exhaust, and suspension to handle the power. The 427 made a rated 390 horsepower and paired with either a Muncie 4-speed manual or optional automatic.
High-Speed Comfort, European Style
Unlike American muscle cars of the era, the Grifo wasn’t just about straight-line speed. It had independent front suspension, a De Dion rear, and disc brakes at all four corners. The cabin was well-appointed, with Connolly leather, Veglia gauges, and thoughtful ergonomics—far removed from the vinyl-and-chrome approach most Detroit GTs offered.
Limited Numbers, Long Shadow
Only about 330 Iso Grifos were built in 1969, making it rarer than most Ferraris of the era. That low production count has made surviving examples highly sought after today. Back then, though, it was a hard sell: priced well above Corvettes, yet not quite as prestigious as Ferrari or Maserati.
Built for Autostradas and Autobahns
The Grifo’s tall gearing and aerodynamic profile meant it was capable of running comfortably at triple-digit speeds. Top speed was north of 145 mph, and the car had the composure to do it all day. It wasn’t built for drag strips—it was built for highways without limits.
Dual Identity: American Muscle Meets Italian Coachwork
One of the most interesting aspects of the Grifo is how unapologetically it mixed American mechanicals with Italian styling. This wasn’t a replica or homage—it was a serious GT from a small, ambitious automaker. That blend of simplicity and style gave it character few others matched.
Not Just a Corvette in a Fancy Suit
Despite sharing its engine with the C2 Corvette, the Grifo had a very different feel. It was lighter, stiffer, and more refined, with a level of steering feedback and ride quality the Corvette never offered. Iso’s version of the big block was tuned for smoothness and long-distance power delivery.
Still Under the Radar
Even today, the Iso Grifo hasn’t become as inflated in value or overexposed as its Italian peers. It remains one of the few ’60s GTs that hardcore enthusiasts know, but few casual collectors chase. That obscurity is part of its charm—and why it continues to fascinate.
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