Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8A Coupé-Spider

Vehicle Overview

The Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8A Coupé-Spider, chassis number 1412, is a remarkable blend of luxury and performance, crafted by the esteemed Milanese coachbuilder Cesare Sala. Commissioned by one of Italy’s most daring and unconventional figures, Maria Antonietta Avanzo, this car reflects both the sophistication of the Isotta Fraschini brand and the adventurous spirit of its first owner. Maria Antonietta Avanzo, born on February 5, 1889, in Contarina, was a trailblazer in the world of motorsport and a significant figure in early Italian feminism. Known as the first Italian woman to compete in events such as the Mille Miglia and the Targa Florio, she was a fearless competitor, unafraid to challenge the male-dominated racing world of the early 20th century. Her achievements were not limited to Italy; she also made an audacious attempt to qualify for the Indianapolis 500 in the United States. Despite not succeeding, her pioneering spirit left a lasting mark on motorsport history. Avanzo’s reputation as a determined and skilled driver earned her the nickname “Baroness,” although she did not come from a noble family. Her vibrant personality and bold lifestyle made her a prominent figure in both the racing world and Italian high society. Notably, she was associated with cultural icons such as Gabriele D’Annunzio, and was the aunt of renowned director Roberto Rossellini and related by marriage to Luchino Visconti. For a woman of such dynamic character, only a car of equal stature would suffice. The Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8A, already known for its grand luxury and power, became her choice. Delivered as a chassis to Cesare Sala’s workshop, chassis 1412 was transformed into a stunning Coupé-Spider, completed in mid-1928. Sala, famed for his exquisite craftsmanship, fashioned the car with a dual personality—a closed coupe for formal appearances and an open spider configuration for more spirited drives. On June 22, 1928, the finished car was delivered to Avanzo, instantly becoming an extension of her adventurous lifestyle. The Tipo 8A’s robust 7.4-liter straight-eight engine, capable of impressive performance, matched Avanzo’s desire for speed and long-distance touring. The body design, with its elongated hood, prominent headlights, and sweeping fenders, conveyed both power and elegance—a fitting reflection of its owner. The Coupé-Spider configuration offered flexibility, allowing Avanzo to enjoy the thrill of open-air motoring while also maintaining the elegance expected from an Isotta Fraschini. The front featured a distinctive upright grille, flanked by imposing round headlights mounted on elegantly curved brackets. The car’s flowing lines, generous wheel arches, and carefully sculpted side panels demonstrated Cesare Sala’s mastery in blending luxury with dynamism. As an automobile tailored for one of Italy’s most colorful personalities, the Isotta Fraschini 8A Coupé-Spider was more than just a means of transport—it was a statement of freedom and boldness. It accompanied Avanzo not only as a symbol of status but as a companion on her journeys, both on the racetrack and in her social escapades. The legacy of chassis 1412 goes beyond its engineering and craftsmanship; it is a symbol of a woman who broke barriers, pursued her passion, and lived life on her own terms. Today, the car stands as a tribute to both the automotive artistry of Cesare Sala and the indomitable spirit of Maria Antonietta Avanzo—a pioneer, a racer, and a true icon of her time.