by Mike Gulett –
Monterey Car Week is very nearly here. In addition to all the car events, historic racing and very cool cars on the streets it also means some of the best classic and collector car auctions anywhere.
One car up for auction that caught my eye early is this 1968 Iso Grifo at the RM Sotheby’s auction in Monterey.
RM Sotheby’s writes,
* Offered from the Collection of Angus Mitchell
* Restored by Iso experts Roberto and Federico Negri
* Tastefully upgraded to the ultimate “7-Litri” specification
* Reportedly one of only six built with a Pavesi sunroof; factory air conditioning
* An outstanding driver’s car, from the collection of a passionate driver
The auction estimate is $350,000 – $400,000 USD.
It is important to note that this Grifo is not an original 7-Liter model but has been converted by Roberto Negri with a “period-correct 427-cubic-inch V-8 and new automatic transmission, and was also fitted with ventilated disc brakes, power steering, and the 7-Litri’s distinctive “penthouse” hood”.
I do believe that I saw this Grifo for sale on the internet a few years ago with a blue interior. It now has been fitted with a tasteful tan interior that looks great.
I suspect this is a terrific driver, not a show car. The sunroof makes it a rare Grifo as does the Negri restoration.
If I owned this Grifo I would change out the Lamborghini magnesium allow wheels for the Grifo magnesium allow wheels and then drive it a lot. I am sure the new owner can sell these wheels to a Lamborghini owner with no problems.
Lamborghini Campagnolo wheels on this Iso Grifo
A correct Iso Grifo Campagnolo wheel
There is nothing wrong with the Lamborghini wheels, they look great on Lamborghinis from that era like my former Espada and any Miura. But a Grifo deserves original Iso style wheels. Although both wheels were made by Campagnolo I think they belong where they were originally intended. What do you think?
Let us know what you think in the Comments.
Photos compliments of RM Sotheby’s by Robin Adams.
A beautiful Iso Grifo with a 427, auto trans and a/c. A perfect combo for a collector who actually drives his cars on occasion.
Both wheels look great on this car. Since so many things were tastefully changed on this car I don’t believe the value would be impacted by the wheels. At this point it is a matter of personal preference.