Giotto Bizzarrini’s name is synonymous with engineering passion and uncompromising performance in Italian automotive history. The 1968 Bizzarrini 5300 GT America represents one of the purest expressions of his vision. It evolved directly from the Iso Grifo A3/C competition variant, inheriting its aggressive, low-slung Giorgetto Giugiaro-penned styling. The GT America variant is particularly significant due to its rarity, with only around 10 examples constructed between 1966 and 1968. This chassis, 0282, boasts an impressive history, including a refurbishment and display at the prestigious 2013 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
The Rarity of the GT America Variant
The 5300 GT line was broadly divided into the aluminum-bodied Strada road car and the fiberglass-bodied Corsa racer. The GT America, introduced in 1966, carried the lightweight fiberglass coachwork, which echoed the visual design of the Strada. However, its most critical distinction was mechanical. It utilized a double-wishbone independent rear suspension system, replacing the De Dion axle found on the Strada. This independent setup improved handling dynamics, pushing the car toward a more pure sports racing character. This rare specification contributes greatly to its collectible status.
Design Details and Features
This example, originally finished in blue, underwent a repaint during its 2010 refurbishment. The car retains its distinctive fastback rear profile and low nose with faired-in headlights. Exterior design elements include bright bumpers and unique fenders with vertical vents, although the horizontal louvers were later deleted. The car is equipped with early-style two-piece door handles and subtle rear quarter-panel vents. Notably, this model features “GT America” sail-panel badging. Dual exhaust outlets peek out from beneath the rear, hinting at the car’s powerful American heart.
The Heart of the Beast: The Chevrolet V8
Powering the Italian grand tourer is a powerful 5.3-liter Chevrolet V8 engine, chosen for its reliability and high output potential. The engine setup is pure performance, breathing through quadruple Weber 45 DCOE carburetors mounted atop a cross-ram intake manifold. This combination feeds a robust air-fuel mixture to the large V8. The entire fuel system was refreshed in 2020, including a fuel tank flush, fuel pressure regulator replacement, and carburetor rebuilds. Dual electric cooling fans help manage the engine’s heat ahead of the radiator.
Performance Specifications and Drivetrain
The 5.3-liter Chevrolet V8, equipped with quadruple Weber carburetors, was rated for immense power in this application. Such a setup typically produces over 360 horsepower, making the lightweight fiberglass-bodied GT America extremely quick. Power is transferred via a close-ratio four-speed manual transmission, giving the driver complete control. The independent suspension system, both front and rear, uses unequal-wishbones and adjustable coilover shock absorbers. Finally, a limited-slip differential helps ensure maximum traction is delivered to the rear wheels during hard acceleration, cementing its track-focused credentials.
Chassis and Braking System
The Bizzarrini 5300 utilized a unique chassis design that positioned the engine far back in the frame, optimizing weight distribution. This helped contribute to the car’s superb handling characteristics. Braking is handled by Campagnolo disc brakes assisted by dual servos and dual master cylinders. Interestingly, the rear brake assemblies are mounted inboard, a technique often used in racing to reduce unsprung weight. The brake system received a comprehensive refresh in 2020, with replacement servos, a vacuum pump, and master cylinders installed. Avon tires mounted on staggered 15-inch Campagnolo magnesium alloy wheels provide the necessary grip.
The Interior: Race Heritage Meets Road Luxury
The cabin maintains a purposeful, yet luxurious, environment trimmed in gray leather. This upholstery covers the fixed-back bucket seats, door panels, and rear shelf area. Features include roll-up windows, door pockets, and color-matched carpeting. The steering column is topped by a wood-rimmed Nardi steering wheel, commanding the classic, focused cockpit. The driver faces a wood bezel housing legible Veglia Borletti instrumentation. These gauges include a 320 km/h speedometer and a 7,000 rpm tachometer, indicating its high-speed capability. The offset shifter, topped with a wood knob, completes the race-inspired, hand-built aesthetic.
A Testament to Italian-American Engineering
The 1968 Bizzarrini 5300 GT America stands as a powerful testament to the potent combination of passionate Italian design and robust American engineering. Its extreme rarity, race-bred features, and high-performance drivetrain make it an exceptionally desirable classic. With a history of expert preservation and recent mechanical service, this blue coupe represents a unique opportunity. It allows a collector to own one of the most significant, high-performance GT cars of the 1960s, embodying the vision of its brilliant designer.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
