Isotta Fraschini PM Roadster

Vehicle Overview

This Isotta Fraschini PM Roadster is a distinguished forebear of the Tipo 8 – the Tipo PM – a 6.0-liter four-cylinder model featuring sidevalve technology and chain final drive. Known for its reliability, elegance, and impressive performance, the Tipo PM was manufactured from 1911 to 1912, during which only 60 chassis were produced. Today, it is believed that only three of these chassis have survived. Among them, chassis number ‘3614’ stands out with its two-seat roadster bodywork crafted by Carrozzeria Pavesi & Crespi of Milan. This renowned coachbuilder, originally a carriage-maker dating back to the turn of the 20th century, transitioned to automobiles and operated for just over a decade. Examples of their automotive work are exceedingly scarce, making chassis ‘3614’ a rare and notable piece of automotive history. The design of the Tipo PM encapsulates the essence of early 20th-century motoring, blending robust engineering with the aesthetic flair typical of Isotta Fraschini vehicles. The chain final drive system, though primitive by today’s standards, provided efficient power delivery suited to the era’s driving conditions. Each surviving example of the Tipo PM represents a significant link to Isotta Fraschini’s heritage, showcasing the craftsmanship and innovation that defined the brand in its formative years. Chassis ‘3614’, with its Pavesi & Crespi coachwork, exemplifies the artisanal approach to automotive design and construction prevalent during the dawn of the automobile age. Today, these rare survivors are cherished among collectors and automotive historians alike, not only for their scarcity but also for their role in shaping the evolution of automotive engineering and design at the turn of the century. The Isotta Fraschini PM Roadster  stands as a testament to Isotta Fraschini’s early commitment to excellence and innovation in the burgeoning automotive industry.