Intermeccanica Italia Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Intermeccanica Italia

Intermeccanica, founded by Frank and Paula Reisner in Turin in 1959, embarked on its most successful chapter with the Italia, built from 1968 to 1972. The Italia's origins can be traced back to the Griffith 600, its bodywork first drafted by Robert Cumberford and later refined by Franco Scaglione. The model represents a rare marriage of finely crafted hand-built steel Italian bodywork with proven Ford V8 technology from the USA. The chassis, thanks to ex-BRM designer John Crosthwaite, provided a solid base for export-focused production, especially for the US market.

Model History

The Italia succeeded earlier Intermeccanica models and remained in production until 1972, after which the Indra became the marque's focus. Over its lifecycle, the Italia was available as both a Coupé and Spyder (Cabrio). The rare Spyder version—fewer than 200 built—remains especially sought after. The interplay of unique Italian design, American drivetrain, and limited numbers keeps the Italia prominent among sportscar aficionados.

Highlights of the Intermeccanica Italia

Few sports cars of the late '60s captured the fusion of Italian styling and American muscle like the Italia. Signature details include hand-built steel body panels, side fender vents, and a strikingly aggressive front end. Interiors were compact but luxurious, usually leather-trimmed with a period-correct Momo wooden steering wheel. Intermeccanica's bespoke dashboards often featured their distinctive bear/bull logo on gauges. Chrome embellishments, original Italian instruments, and classic Cromodora or Magnum 500 wheels complete the Italia's visual impact. Production focused on quality, not numbers, securing the Italia's place as a niche collector's car.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The rare Spyder (convertible) edition, with an estimated production of around 200 vehicles, is regarded as the most collectible version. Characterised by its open-top design and low production numbers, the Spyder is particularly valued among enthusiasts seeking both rarity and the Italia driving experience in convertible form.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

The Italia benefits from robust American mechanicals—Ford engines and transmissions—making maintenance straightforward in most markets. Hand-built Italian bodywork ensures high standards, but also means replacement panels can be difficult or expensive to source. The compact interior may not suit tall drivers. Attention to corrosion on the steel body, proper operation of electricals (including original Italian instruments and electric window lifts), and authenticity of trim (badges, wheels, chrome) are crucial in evaluating a potential purchase.

Performance and Handling

With strong V8 torque and reliable Ford mechanicals, the Italia delivers potent straight-line performance paired with a unique chassis and suspension engineered by Intermeccanica. The four-speed Top Loader gearbox provides a mechanical, engaging driving experience. Suspension tuning is more sporting than in most American powerplants of the era, giving the car a blend of European road feel and muscular acceleration. Braking and road holding are secure by late-60s/early-70s sportscar standards, with the added pleasure of a rich V8 exhaust note. Popular editions include:

1. Italia Coupé – Signature hardtop, full Italian styling, Ford 289/302 V8 engine.
2. Italia Spyder – Limited-production convertible, famed for its open-air driving and collectability.
3. Italia 351 Cleveland – Later production variant with increased displacement, offering even stronger performance.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Italia's aesthetics blend Franco Scaglione's aggressive, flowing lines with a pronounced nose and side vents for character. The front features distinctive 'sugar-loaf' headlamp inserts. Robed in hand-shaped steel, the finish and chromework exemplify Italian craft. Standard interiors feature leather upholstery, an original Momo wood-rimmed steering wheel, and a centre console typical of late '60s Milanese fashion. The dashboard often carries exclusive Italian instrumentation with model-specific details. Accessories and features like electric windows, rare Cromodora alloys, and period-correct colour palettes (often bright or pastel metallics of the era) further individualise each car.

Additional Notes

All Italias feature the Intermeccanica bear/bull logo on instruments—a quirky marque hallmark. Cars exported to the USA often have subtle differences in lighting and badging, making chassis and spec research intriguing for purists and collectors alike.

Summary

The Intermeccanica Italia stands apart thanks to its rare blend of Italian design heritage and American engineering. With limited numbers, especially among Spyders, every surviving example is a testament to hand-crafted car culture from Turin's golden age. Reliable, distinctive, and offering visceral performance, the Italia is a true representative of cross-continental collaboration in classic grand touring.