Reinvented
If the famous Rudi Klein slaughterhouse in Los Angeles is mentioned as an early reference in the history of an automobile, then, yes, then. But that doesn’t have to mean anything – and in the history of #0241, it is certainly no secret that a few ‘adjustments’ were made, such as the conversion to ‘Corsa’, a more powerful engine, etc. When you see the pictures below, it is immediately clear.
VIN: #IA3*0241
Engine: #554F11075
Type: Strada
Rear window: conventional
Dashboard: Series 1
Rear axle: DeDion
Carburettor: Weber
Body: aluminium
Original colour:?
Original interior:?
First mentioned: –
delivered: –
first owner: –
further owners/noteworthy:
19??: Carey Loftin?
19??: Rudi Klein, Los Angeles
19??: Bill DeCarr, Los Angeles
19??: Ron Spindler, USA
19??: Chuck Wray
2003: Scott Stupay, USA (restoration by Chris Wray, but in 2007 it was still only in parts and in boxes, offered for $275,000)
2010: Jamie McIntrye, England
2012: Restoration by Mark Lewis Design
2013: First test drives at Goodwood in March, first race at Goodwood on 18 May.
2016: For sale at DK Engineering, £1 million
All information according to: Jack Koobs de Hartog, Bizzarrini – Facts and Figures, 2017
Now, in April 2025, #0241 is back for sale at DK Engineering (without price). As you can see, a lot has happened again. And that’s probably a good thing. The vehicle is offered with this text: «This is a genuine, early Bizzarrini which was inspected by Jack Koobs de Hartog, who is very much a recognised expert on Bizzarrinis and has written several books on the cars. The car was built at the end of 1965 when Piero Rivolta and Bizzarrini fell out and therefore, although much of the car would have been built alongside other ISO A3/C s, it was originally badged as a Bizzarrini. This example is 1 of just 12 of a total of 73 5300 GTs built with a lightweight aluminium body and De-Dion rear suspension. These cars were one of the first to pair the Italian prowess and sophistication with the brute of an American-sourced powerplant. With known ownership from new, this Bizzarrini was supplied new the USA where it remained until 2002.
This example has recently been treated to a full recommissioning by specialist preparers, Pursuit, to match the specification of the first ISO A3/C Corsa; a car which, unlike the Bizzarrini-badged cars, raced in early 1964. This was an important factor; as the car needed to be able to gain entry to Goodwood. It is also worth noting that all original parts that were removed during the rebuild have been carefully retained, including all interior trim and brightwork. There are disc brakes all round, independent front suspension and a De-Dion rear axle. The engine BHP has been reduced from just over 470bhp to 448bhp in favour of a more linear curve and increased torque. As such, the car is eligible for numerous events during the racing calendar, including the Goodwood TT, the Spa Six Hours and the Masters historic racing series where it would be without doubt a front runner in the right hands.
The restoration process included a distinct focus on weight-saving where possible, with the outcome being a reduction of over 30kgs. A bespoke, inconel, silenced exhaust system was developed and fitted. Amends were made to the car to ensure it conformed to HTP regulations and tipping the scales at a scant 1,098kg, it meets the minimum homologated weight. Accompanying the car are a large number of documents and photographs of the rebuild and of the car in its dismantled state. Post restoration laps at Goodwood saw the car set a time that would have put it on pole for Goodwood TT only a few weeks later. As well as a full gearbox and differential refresh, the overhaul included engine dyno testing, damper testing, a brake rebuild and subsequent testing to ensure this example is ready to race. This Bizzarrini presents today once more in it period livery and available to view by appointment immediately. HTP papers are in process and will be supplied with the car».
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