The Tipo 8 was built to be one of the world's finest cars, and developed a splendid reputation.

It was the first quantity production straight-eight in the world and sold well in North America.

The block, in light-alloy sported a nine-bearing light-alloy crankcase as well.

They were truly built without regards to cost.

At 5,902 cc( 6 litres), it developed 80hp at 2200 rpm's.

This particular Corsica bodied Speedster has a fascinating history.

It was owned by an English family that wintered in South Africa.

In the early thirties, the owner decided to have the Isotta rebodied with a Corsica boatailed two-seater as documented in Automotive Quarterly.

It remained near Umhlanga Rock, Natal until 1949 when it was purchased by two brothers, one an engineer.

After enjoying it for several years, the brothers decided to dismantle the mighty Isotta for restoration.

All parts were labeled and packed in crates-- and would remain that way for 30 years.

In 1985, after 5 years of restoration,...