Iso Rivolta Fidia: A Unique Blend of Luxury and Speed

Rare GEMS - In the world of automotive history, the tale of the Iso Rivolta Fidia is a fascinating chapter that exemplifies the blend of aspiration and misfortune. In the early 1960s, Maserati carved out a niche for Italian sports saloons with the Quattroporte, paving the way for other manufacturers to follow suit. Among them was Iso, under the direction of Piero Rivolta, who aimed to introduce a luxurious yet speedy four-door vehicle into the market. 

The Iso Rivolta Fidia, originally designated the 'S4,' was crafted by the renowned designer Giorgetto Giugiaro and built by Carrozzeria Ghia. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

The Iso Rivolta Fidia, originally designated the 'S4,' was crafted by the renowned designer Giorgetto Giugiaro and built by Carrozzeria Ghia, capturing the imagination of car enthusiasts. However, despite its promising design and concept, the Fidia faced a series of challenges that hindered its success.

This is an image of an early production Iso Rivolta Fidia from one of the company’s period brochures. (Picture from: Silodrome)

The launch of the Iso Rivolta Fidia took place in Athens and quickly became notorious for its unfortunate circumstances. The car’s debut was marred by technical issues stemming from the local fuel, which did not meet the necessary octane requirements for the vehicle. Journalists driving the Fidia reported problems such as "horrible pinking," leading to negative reviews that stuck with the model long after its introduction. This incident tarnished the car's reputation right from the start, despite the excitement it initially generated.

Piero Rivolta resting on an Iso Rivolta IR300 – the first luxury GT car built by Iso. (Picture from: Silodrome)

The Fidia marked a significant milestone for Piero Rivolta, who took the helm of the company after his father, Renzo, passed away in 1966. It was Piero Rivolta's first project, and he envisioned a powerful saloon that would appeal to those seeking both performance and style. The initial models were equipped with a robust 5.4-litre Chevy V8 engine, delivering an impressive 355 horsepower and allowing the car to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in around seven seconds. However, in 1973, the Fidia transitioned to a 5.8-litre Ford V8 engine, producing 325 horsepower, which, while slightly less powerful, still maintained a respectable performance for the era.

In terms of design, the Iso Rivolta Fidia was a unique creation, showcasing a diverse range of influences that reflected the eclectic automotive styles of the late 1960s. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

In terms of design, the Fidia was a unique creation, showcasing a diverse range of influences that reflected the eclectic automotive styles of the late 1960s. Its bold front end drew comparisons to the Iso Grifo and the De Tomaso Mangusta, while the silhouette featured a rising window line, a prominent C-pillar, and a gracefully sloping rear. This combination of elements made the Fidia a visually striking vehicle, but also one that lacked the cohesive design language found in some of its competitors.

The interior of the car was as good or better than any luxury GT car in the world at the time, and many luxury features that were options in other cars came standard in the Fidia. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

The Frankfurt Motor Show in autumn 1967 served as the stage for the Fidia's debut, where it was initially referred to as the Iso Rivolta S4. Following the chaotic press launch in Athens, the name was changed to Fidia, a tribute to the ancient Greek sculptor Phidias. Despite the troubled launch, the car attracted attention from celebrities, including John Lennon, who famously purchased the second Fidia ever made. This was followed by other notable figures such as Pete Townshend, Sonny Bono, and James Last, all of whom contributed to the vehicle's cachet, even as it struggled in the market.

The Frankfurt Motor Show in autumn 1967 served as the stage for the Fidia's debut, where it was initially referred to as the Iso Rivolta S4. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

As production costs escalated, Rivolta found himself compelled to raise the Fidia's price, bringing it to a point where it competed with prestigious brands like Rolls-Royce. This pricing strategy proved to be a double-edged sword; while it positioned the Fidia among the elite, it also limited its accessibility to a broader audience. Ultimately, the Iso Rivolta Fidia production ended in 1974, with just over 190 units built, including a special edition featuring an interior inspired by the Iso Lele, introduced in 1969. | Gwf9xulmBkg |

Today, the Iso Rivolta Fidia stands as a sought-after collector’s item, cherished not only for its rarity but also for its unique place in automotive history. Its four seats may no longer offer the fastest experience on the road, but the charm of the Fidia lies in its rich backstory and the blend of innovation and misfortune that marked its journey. The Fidia serves as a reminder of a bold vision that, despite its challenges, captured the essence of an era defined by ambition and creativity in the world of luxury automobiles. *** [EKA } FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSICDRIVER | SILODROME ]

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