isoa3c

The Iso A3/C was built by Bizzarrini as the competition version of the Grifo A3/L. It had the shortened pressed floor panel Grifo chassis with a tubular structure placed on top of it. The aluminum bodywork designed by Bizzarrini and Bertone is connected to this frame by using the technique of riveting. It took more than 10.000 rivets to complete the job. The engine is moved back about 40 cm making the A3/c one of the first (front) mid-engined cars ever built. Two fuel tanks are situated in the side rails of the chassis and one close to the seats. Safety was not a big issue back than but worth to remember now if you are restoring one of these cars.

	It is a very low car and because of its aerodynamic efficiency is capable of reaching speeds of close to 300 km/h. When tested by several magazines the testdrivers noted the lack of wind noise, even at speeds of 200+ km/h. (photo by Pascual)
	There were two versions of this car, one for the circuit and one for the road. The last one was called the A3 Stradale Berlinetta and was a little more luxurious and a little less powerful. It still could reach 100 km/h in 6 seconds and had a topspeed of over 270 km/h. Those who tested it loved it. It still is one of the most beautiful cars ever built.

Iso also raced the A3/C at 13 occasions. It had the potential to win the world championship according to Bizzarrini but Renzo Rivolta stopped racing them after 1965. Best result were 1st in class at LeMans 64 (Iso A3 Corsa) and 65 (Iso A3/C). It proved the car's potential. Today people are racing them again and they prove very hard to beat due to their reliable engine, excellent handling and high topspeed.

This beautiful Iso Grifo is on permanent display in the best sports car museum I've ever seen! Trust me and go there. Ferrari (6), Lamborghini (10), Facel Vega (4), De Tomaso (1), Abarth (4), Maserati (11), Alfa Romeo (5), Alpine (12), Citroen, Rolls Royce etc. etc. etc. They also have the most impressive collection of model cars, a circuit etc. It is one of the best in the world.

Manoir de l' Automobile Loheac France.