While the humble beginnings of Iso as an automotive manufacturer were more closely associated with constructing microcars and motorcycles, the Bresso-based company elected to compete in the luxury car market in the early 1960s.

The Rivolta IR 300 was shown to the public for the first time at the 1962 Turin Motor Show as the realised dream of two men—Renzo Rivolta, the company chairman for whom the car is named, and engineer Giotto Bizzarrini, formerly of Ferrari—who devised the model as a sumptuous gran turismo.

Giorgetto Giugiaro of Bertone led on the design of the stylish coupé, while engineers turned to American muscle as a powertrain solution.

A 5.4-litre V-8 was sourced from Chevrolet, affording the Iso 295 horsepower with a top speed of 218 km/h.

The second-series IR 300 offered for sale here is finished in its factory-correct Bleu Sera over contrasting red-and-brown leather interior.

A wood-rimmed steering wheel sits against a wood panel dashboard, complete with a retro-sty...