Iso Rivolta GT 300/340

Vehicle Overview

The Iso Rivolta GT 300/340 represents a remarkable collaboration between the Italian coachbuilder Bertone and Iso Rivolta, a company based in the Milanese suburb of Bresso. In 1962, Iso Rivolta introduced a revolutionary concept by combining a sturdy, lightweight chassis with a powerful Chevrolet Corvette engine. This fusion of Italian craftsmanship and American engineering gave birth to the Iso Rivolta GT, a grand tourer that embodied the essence of luxury and performance. The car was powered by a 5.3-liter Chevrolet V8 engine, delivering between 300 and 345 horsepower depending on the variant, making it a potent machine capable of impressive speeds and an exhilarating driving experience. The engine was paired with a De Dion rear axle, which enhanced the vehicle’s handling and driving dynamics, ensuring it was not only fast but also well-balanced. Bertone, under the direction of the skilled Giugiaro, was tasked with designing a body that would complement the robust mechanical platform. The result was a stylish four-seater coupé, blending Italian elegance with American power. While the Iso Rivolta GT was admired for its classical lines, Nuccio Bertone later reflected that the design was “a little too cautious,” meaning that while it was undoubtedly beautiful, it didn’t fully break free from traditional design conventions of the time. The car’s dimensions were substantial: a 2700 mm wheelbase, a total length of 4800 mm, and a height of 1340 mm. Weighing in at 1500 kg, the Iso Rivolta GT struck a balance between performance and comfort, offering ample space for rear passengers—something relatively rare in many high-performance grand tourers of the era. From its debut in the summer of 1962, the Iso Rivolta GT was well-received and produced a total of 770 units between 1962 and 1970. It became a highly sought-after model, admired for its combination of powerful American engineering and refined Italian design. Today, it stands as a testament to the ingenuity and collaboration between Iso Rivolta and Bertone, with the Iso Rivolta GT 300/340 still cherished by automotive enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.

Photo courtesy of Hyman Ltd.