Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8A Sala

Vehicle Overview

The Isotta Fraschini 8A Sala, constructed between 1927 and 1928, is a remarkable example of the luxurious and bespoke vehicles produced during the interwar period. This particular model was commissioned by an English car dealer representing Isotta Fraschini and was expertly bodied by Carrozzeria Cesare Sala of Milan, a renowned coachbuilder known for its exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail. The car dealer, located at 37 North Audley Street in London, used this Isotta Fraschini as a demonstration vehicle, showcasing its elegance and advanced engineering to potential clients. It remained on display for several years, serving as a testament to the brand’s prestige and the luxurious appeal of the 8A model. The Isotta Fraschini 8A was one of the most coveted luxury cars of its time, often compared to the likes of Rolls-Royce and Hispano-Suiza, making it a perfect centerpiece for a high-end dealership in a prominent London location. After nearly four years as a demonstration vehicle, the car was sold on August 3, 1931, to Commander Antonio Tamboriza of Toulouse. It was then registered in France for the first time, marking a new chapter in its history. The sale to Commander Tamboriza underscores the international appeal and exclusivity of the Isotta Fraschini brand, attracting discerning buyers from across Europe. The Isotta Fraschini 8A Sala remains a fascinating piece of automotive history, not only for its exceptional design and craftsmanship but also for its journey from a prestigious London showroom to the roads of France. The involvement of Carrozzeria Cesare Sala added a layer of Italian elegance to the robust engineering of the Isotta Fraschini chassis, creating a vehicle that was as beautiful as it was technically impressive. This car, like many others of its era, illustrates the close relationship between automotive engineering and custom coachbuilding, where each vehicle was a unique work of art tailored to the tastes of its owner, a true embodiment of the luxury and exclusivity that defined the golden age of motoring.