Bizzarrini

Year of foundation 1962-1969

The history of Bizzarrini is inextricably linked to the genius of its founder, Giotto Bizzarrini, an Italian engineer and manufacturer who left an indelible mark on the automotive world.

The Origins and Genius of Giotto Bizzarrini

Before founding his company, Giotto Bizzarrini had already established himself as a leading figure in the Italian automotive scene. A brilliant engineer, he worked for major manufacturers such as Alfa Romeo and Ferrari. His contributions were crucial to legendary projects, including the famous Ferrari 250 GTO and Lamborghini's V12 engine. However, due to disagreements with Enzo Ferrari, Bizzarrini decided to go it alone, launching an entrepreneurial adventure that, though brief, would become legendary.

The Birth of Prototipi Bizzarrini S.R.L.

In 1964, in Livorno, Bizzarrini founded "Prototipi Bizzarrini S.R.L." (which became Bizzarrini S.p.a. in 1966) with the goal of producing luxury sports cars. His philosophy was centered on engineering purity and uncompromising pursuit of performance.

The 5300 GT Strada: The Unforgettable Icon

The first and most iconic car produced by the company was the Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada. Born as an evolution of the Iso Grifo A3C, a project on which Bizzarrini had previously worked, the 5300 GT Strada was a masterpiece of design and engineering. With a low, streamlined body designed for aerodynamics and a powerful 5.3-liter Chevrolet-sourced V8 engine, it was a true "race car for the road." Approximately 133 units were produced between 1965 and 1968, in the Strada, America, and Corsa versions. Despite having to compete with prestigious cars like the Ferraris of the time, the 5300 GT received excellent critical acclaim for its performance and aggressive styling.

Other Models and the Company's Short Life

In addition to the 5300 GT, Bizzarrini produced other models, such as the Bizzarrini P538, a sports prototype created for competition, which also participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. In 1967, it presented the 1900 GT Europa, a smaller and more accessible car, at the Geneva Motor Show. However, despite the success of its models, Bizzarrini S.p.A. It was short-lived and closed due to bankruptcy in 1969.

The Rebirth of the Brand

After years of attempts and initiatives to revive the name, the Bizzarrini brand was acquired by an investor and recently embarked on a rebirth. The new era began with the production of the 5300 GT Corsa Revival, a faithful replica of the original model, and the unveiling of a new model, the Bizzarrini Giotto, a modern hypercar that pays homage to the founder with a powerful V12 engine.

The Bizzarrini name, while not having enjoyed the same longevity as other car manufacturers, remains a symbol of passion, ingenious engineering, and iconic classic cars.