Bizzarrini GT Strada 5300 classic cars for sale

History of the Bizzarrini GT Strada 5300

Developed by Giotto Bizzarrini, mastermind behind the Ferrari 250 GTO, the GT Strada 5300 was introduced in 1965. Its origins lie in the collaboration between Bizzarrini and Iso, resulting in the Iso Grifo A3/C—a car that soon evolved into the independent Bizzarrini 5300 GT project. Built in Livorno, Italy, it was offered in road-going 'Strada' and competition-oriented 'Corsa' versions. The car adopted a highly purist motorsport philosophy, influenced by Bizzarrini's Le Mans experience. It won the GT class at Le Mans in 1964 and 1965 under the A3/C name. Only about 86 aluminium-bodied cars were hand-built, giving each example a unique character and high recognition among collectors.

Model Series History

The Bizzarrini GT Strada 5300 finds its roots in the Iso Grifo A3/C, a partnership engineered as Bizzarrini left Ferrari. The A3/C split from Iso after business differences, leading to the birth of the Bizzarrini-badged version. Production ran from around 1965 to 1968/69, with both Strada (road) and Corsa (race) versions built using hand-crafted methods. Its direct successor was the Bizzarrini P 538, a mid-engine sports car built from 1966. The GT Strada 5300's limited run and deep motorsport pedigree define it as a cornerstone in Italian sports car evolution.

Highlights and Market Data

The GT Strada 5300’s exclusivity is rooted in its combination of American small block muscle and Italian artistry. With a near 50:50 weight distribution thanks to its front-mid engine layout and strategic fuel tank placement, it set handling benchmarks for its era. Technical masterpieces such as the lightweight aluminium body, inboard brakes, and advanced chassis architecture—riveted with up to 1000 fasteners—distinguish it from all contemporaries. The silhouette, designed by Giugiaro at Bertone and refined by Piero Drogo, measures just 1.11 meters in height and was honed for aerodynamic performance. Only approximately 86 cars left the factory with aluminium bodies, making every GT Strada 5300 highly desirable. Optional equipment such as air conditioning, electric windows, and forged magnesium Campagnolo wheels were available on select examples.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Rarities

Pre-production and early 'Pre-Series' Bizzarrini GT 5300s are distinguishable by the extensive use of over 1000 rivets in their aluminium construction. Some examples are equipped with unique features such as factory-fitted air conditioning, electric windows, or rare magnesium Campagnolo centre-lock wheels. Racing-spec 'Corsa' models, lightweight and further stripped out, were prepared for endurance events and succeeded in competitions such as Le Mans. Only a handful of each variant remains, further elevating their exclusivity.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Due to the bespoke, hand-crafted construction, sourcing original body and mechanical parts can be challenging and costly. The advanced engine placement complicates maintenance access; for example, the distributor requires access via the passenger compartment. Aluminium panels and chassis components require specialist care to avoid corrosion and maintain integrity. As with all rare sports cars, originality and meticulous upkeep are paramount for long-term value.

Engine, Handling and Driving Experience

The GT Strada 5300’s American V8 delivers relentless torque and acceleration, outpacing many period rivals from Ferrari, Maserati, and Lamborghini. Thanks to the nearly perfect weight distribution (52:48), a lightweight 1150 kg structure, and advanced independent suspension, the driver experiences responsive steering and secure high-speed stability. Inboard brakes add to the racing feel while keeping unsprung mass low. Motorsport-derived setup means the car excels both on road and track. A top speed of circa 290 km/h, coupled with hand-crafted Italian driving ergonomics, turns every journey into a memorable adventure. - Bizzarrini GT 5300 Strada (road version): Balanced for usability and speed, often fitted with comfort options.

• Bizzarrini GT 5300 Corsa (competition version): Lighter, maniacally focused on racing, stripped interior, minimal creature comforts.
• Early Pre-Series models: Most distinguished by their riveting patterns and manual construction.

Interior, Comfort and Design

Giorgetto Giugiaro’s design—realised by Bertone and detailed by Piero Drogo—delivers a car with a low profile, extended bonnet, and a heavily curved windscreen. Headlights are recessed and finished with plexiglass covers. The body, executed in lightweight aluminium, omits bumpers for purity and features pronounced wheel arches. Inside, the minimalist yet meticulously crafted cockpit features hand-stitched Italian leather, a signature wooden steering wheel, and a functional dashboard. Customers could specify rare equipment such as air conditioning and electrics, but the focus remained on driving. Magnesium wheels and bespoke instrumentation complete the package.

Other Noteworthy Features

Every GT Strada 5300 reflects Bizzarrini’s philosophy of uncompromising performance paired with Italian craftsmanship. The marque’s dedication to small-series, hand-built vehicles ensures that each example carries individual quirks and details. Due to minimal original production, provenance and authenticity are highly scrutinised among collectors.

Summary

The Bizzarrini GT Strada 5300 is a unique intersection of motorsport engineering and Italian design. It combines a robust American V8 with advanced chassis solutions, clothed in a Bertone body of uncompromised style. With just around 86 units produced, each hand-built example stands as a testament to Giotto Bizzarrini’s vision for the ultimate driver's car.