It is not often we see more than one Iso Grifo for auction in the same week in the same town. Let’s enjoy it!
by Mike Gulett –
All Iso Grifos are special because they are so rare and have a unique history. This one is extra special because it is a Series I Targa (only 14 made) and was owned for many years by the late Gerd Eckstein, a major Iso collector who also promoted the marque back when most people had never heard of Iso.
1970 Iso Grifo Series I Targa
Estimate: $600,000 – $800,000
This Iso Grifo is up for auction by Gooding at their Pebble Beach auction in August 2022.
Gooding writes,
– One of Just 14 Series I Targas Built
– Spectacular Bizzarrini-Engineered, Bertone-Styled Grand Tourer
– Renowned Italian Coachwork and Chassis Development with Reliable American Power
– Benefits from Recent Mechanical Attention from Noted Iso Specialist
– First Time Offered for Sale in More than 42 Years
– Chassis – GL020314
– Engine – 1419 V0409HY
As documented by a copy of the build sheet on file, this striking Grifo was completed on March 21, 1970, and delivered to Auto Becker in Germany. After passing through just three previous owners, it was acquired by its current caretaker in 1978.
Originally finished in Argento Auteuil Metallizzato (Metallic Silver), the Targa was repainted in the 1980s in its present deep blue metallic to better complement its gray leather interior. In the early 2000s, the luxurious interior was restored by former Iso employee Roberto Negri in Clusone, Italy.
Below are photos of this Iso Grifo Targa by Rebecca Fuller and Mike Gulett at The Quail, A Motor Sport Gathering in August 2012 where Iso was a featured class. This Grifo is certainly stunning and it has been well cared for by a long time expert owner.
Let us know what you think in the Comments.
Recent picture of the Grifo at the annual 2022 Berverly Hills Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance
With the Targa tops in.
maybe I made a mistake selling my Iso for $12.000 in 1970 in Canada I believe it is now blue in Italy
Ouch
Some more pictures, courtesy of Ted7 ©
Interior shot with roof panels removed.
Engine compartment, detailed to original factory specs.
Removable targa roof panels visible.
Maurice Mentens is the “– Benefits from Recent Mechanical Attention from Noted Iso Specialist” that Gooding describes. He is also shown in my 2 posts with his son Mickey.
No doggy,you know it ain;t Maurice
“finger licking good”
Sold for $637,500.
I am astounded by that price.As much as some Bizzarrinis sold for and a Bizzarrini looks far more exotic. I think the price rise in Isos is a story but I can’t figure out why they appreciated so much, so if anybody has an explanation write me your opinion at malibucarart@gmail.com