1963 Iso Grifo A3/L Prototype

Iso Grifo A3/L Prototype #420001

The grand debut of the Iso Grifo A3/L Prototype, chassis #420001, was at the 1963 Turin Motor Show where it immediately garnered attention and grabbed headlines. The synergistic blend of style and function was the result of a collaboration between two Italian icons; Bertone legend Giorgetto Giugiaro styled the coachwork, while the chassis design was by no other than Giotto Bizzarrini. Bizzarrini, known for his engineering genius, was responsible for the racing success of the Ferrari 250 GTO.

From Turin to Pebble

Grifo #001 went through the development typical of a prototype. The original front end was soon redesigned to combat dangerous front-end lift at speed. This final development was the reference for this restoration.

Parts were sourced from all over the world and countless hours were devoted to the research and development of this car to achieve this period-perfect spec. Being a prototype, the only reference points were surviving historic photographs and records, making this restoration exceptionally challenging.

The skilled team at Road Scholars was essential to the completion of #001. Their expert paint team was able to match the original color after we had uncovered remnants of it upon removal of the cars metal halo bar. The unique grey-blue hue is said to have been inspired by the coloring of a shark.

Crafting an Award-Winning Interior

As part of the interior restoration, original 1960s press photos were scrutinized. Our Research and Trim Teams closely collaborated to document, source, and craft this unique interior. An archive of period press and factory photos were assembled and carefully scrutinized. Working from these records and examining other period Grifo interiors, our team was able to replicate the correct materials, stitching, and patterns. Once the correct appointments were documented, NOS materials were sourced and many components were made from the ground up. Specialty tools and techniques were developed and utilized to ensure the most authentic recreation possible, such as a process to duplicate the unique perforations of the seat inserts. In addition, all switches, knobs, handles, instrumentation, and woodwork were documented and restored back to original configuration.

After an accelerated 14-month, comprehensive restoration, Grifo #001 took home Best in Class and Excellence in Design at the 2021 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.