This is the 2010 Iso Grifo 90, and the intriguing aspect behind this interesting study is the fact that this bright yellow, wedge-shaped machine actually began it’s story as a full-size wooden concept car that was commissioned in the early 1990’s by Piero Rivolta, the son of Italian Engineer, Renzo Rivolta, the founder of the Italian automobile manufacturer, Iso Autoveicoli S.p.A. in the year 1938. The Italian car and motorbike manufacturer began it’s life as a company first producing electric heaters and chillers, and later, after World War II, transitioned into the production of motorbikes. From here, the company would take on many names over the years, including Isothermos, Iso Autoveicoli Spa, Iso Rivolta, and, Iso Motors, and by the year 1953, the company launched their first car, known as the Isetta, an Italian-designed microcar. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, and despite creating a number of interesting models, all vehicle production officially ended on December 31st of 1974 for the company. As a way to pay homage, and to create the ultimate revival for the ISO company, Piero Rivolta put together a talented revival team for the Grifo 90, consisting of Italian automobile designer, Marcello Gandini, as well as Italian race car manufacturer, Dallara. The concept was first revealed near Modena, Italy in 1991, was subsequently forgotten about for years. That was until the owner of Plastic fabrication company, Mako Shark, and Iso collector, Federico Bonomelli rediscovered the model back in 2007, and set out to finish what Gandini and Rivolta had started. Together, alongside his brother, who helped redesign the car, Federico Bonomelli received approval from Piero Rivolta for the project, and was guided by Marcello Gandini as well. The car began as a C5 Corvette in 2007, and the team spent 3 years developing the car, functional prototype was officially born. 12 examples were planned to be built, however, only 1 car was ever completed.
How many made? 1 of 1
Engine: Callaway-modified V8 ZR1 - 490hp
Debut: 1991, Modena, Italy
Top Speed: 186mph (claimed)
0-60mph: 3.6 seconds (claimed)
Photo Credit: @famoia76