Founded in Milan in 1900 by Cesare Isotta and brothers Oreste, Vincenzo, and Antonio Fraschini, Isotta Fraschini initially imported French cars before starting their own production in 1902. By 1906, they became Italy’s second-largest motor manufacturer, highlighted by an Isotta Fraschini victory in the 1908 Targa Florio race. Their pre-World War I era saw the creation of distinguished automobiles, yet they are best known for the Giustino Cattaneo-designed Tipo 8 and its variations.
Introduced in August 1919, the Tipo 8 was groundbreaking as the world’s first mass-produced straight-eight engine. Its 5.9-litre, overhead-valve powerplant generated 80bhp at a modest 2,200rpm, featuring advanced components like a nine-bearing crankshaft, alloy cylinder block, and magneto ignition. The chassis included a three-speed gearbox, multi-plate clutch, semi-elliptic springs, and four-wheel brakes.
Targeted at the affluent American market, the Tipo 8 became favored by celebrities like Rudolph Valentino, Clara Bow, William Randolph Hearst, and boxer Jack Dempsey. The 1924 Tipo 8A followed with a 7.3-litre engine producing approximately 115bhp, boasting Isotta’s acclaimed three-speed synchromesh transmission and enhanced chassis and suspension.
Isotta Fraschini faced challenges during the Great Depression despite success in the US, where their cars rivaled Rolls-Royce in popularity and price. Post-1935, the company pivoted to aero engines and trucks after failed attempts to revive their luxury car production.
Here below is a set of beautiful photos of the 1927 Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8A Boat-Tail Tourer.
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