If you’ve never heard of the Iso Grifo GL 365, prepare to meet the dark horse of the 1960s sports car scene. This Italian masterpiece was more than just a pretty face; it was a brute in a suit, ready to charm you at a gala and then beat you in a sprint on the way home.
The Italian-American Hybrid
With a 5,354 cc V8 engine under the hood, sourced from the American shores and tuned to a European symphony, the Iso Grifo GL 365 boasted a hefty 360 horsepower. This fusion of American brawn and Italian styling wasn’t just rare; it was revolutionary.
Record-Breaking Speed
Claiming the streets with a top speed of 259 km/h (161 mph), the Iso Grifo outpaced its contemporaries and stole the crown as the fastest production car from the 1959 Aston Martin DB4 GT. It held this enviable position until the mighty 1965 AC Cobra Mk III 427 slithered its way to the top with a venomous 266 km/h (165 mph).
Design That Dazzles
The Grifo wasn’t all about speed. Its design was a breathtaking blend of sleek lines and aggressive stance, a physical manifestation of speed and elegance. Each curve and crease was meticulously crafted, making the Grifo not just a car, but a rolling piece of art.
A Legacy of Uncompromising Power and Style
The 1963 Iso Grifo GL 365 remains an emblem of a time when car makers dared to dream big and bold. Today, it stands as a testament to the era’s innovation and is a coveted gem among classic car enthusiasts, celebrated for its daring approach to combining power with grace.