1968 Iso Grifo GL Series I

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$357,000 USD | Sold

The Collection of Angus Mitchell

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  • Offered from the Collection of Angus Mitchell
  • Restored by Iso experts Roberto and Federico Negri
  • Tastefully upgraded to the ultimate “7-Litri” specification
  • Reportedly one of only six built with a Pavesi sunroof; factory air conditioning
  • An outstanding driver’s car, from the collection of a passionate driver

The Iso Grifo GL Series 1 offered here was originally delivered to Dutch real estate mogul Maurits Caransa, who was kidnapped in 1977 and famously negotiated his own $4 million ransom. Originally delivered in white with black interior, 327-cubic-inch engine, automatic transmission, and factory air conditioning, it was one of reportedly six Grifos delivered with the unusual Pavesi sunroof, featuring dual removable panels in a sort of “enclosed T-top” arrangement.

In the early 2000s, a subsequent Dutch owner entrusted the Iso Grifo to the well-known marque specialists, Roberto and Federico Negri, who completed a full restoration in bright Giallo. As part of this work, the car was upgraded to the ultimate “7-Litri” specification, with a period-correct 427-cubic-inch V-8 and new automatic transmission, and was also fitted with ventilated disc brakes, power steering, and the 7-Litri’s distinctive “penthouse” hood. According to Federico Negri, the job was very thorough, with the front and rear body clips, doors, and hood all properly restored along with the chassis, and concluded in 2005 at a reported cost in excess of €200,000.

In 2015, the car was acquired for the storied Elkhart Collection of Indiana, and in that ownership upgraded with a new butterscotch-hued leather interior, then driven with brio on the 2016 Copperstate 1000, reportedly besting the like of Shelby GT350s in straight-line travel. Angus Mitchell purchased the car at RM Sotheby’s legendary 2020 sale of the Elkhart Collection, and with his typical exuberance once again took it on the road, enjoying it at numerous cars-and-coffee and other events. In his ownership it continued to be well-kept, including having the dashboard recovered to reduce reflection. A bottle of iconic Paul Mitchell shampoo is included with the sale.

Well-suited for further vintage rallies, where it will carry its passengers in comfort at extremely high speeds, this is undoubtedly one of the best-prepared, most thoroughly specified Iso Grifos available—built by specialists for driving enjoyment, and savored for years by collectors who knew power and style.