One to Buy: ex-Mike Hailwood 1968 Iso Grifo GL300
Alongside John Lennon who was a big fan of the four-door Fidia, one of Iso’s best known customers was four-time 500cc Motorcycle Grand Prix world champion and noted F1 / sports car driver, Mike Hailwood.
At various stages of his career, Hailwood is understood to have owned at least three examples of the iconic Bertone-styled Iso Grifo, one of which (a yellow car) he famously crashed into a cow at high speed while travelling back to Johannesburg from the Cape Town 3 Hour race in November 1969.
The Grifo was of course Iso boss Renzo Rivolta’s answer to similar front-engined two-seat Grand Tourers from Ferrari and Maserati. Initially, a racing version dubbed the A3/C had been designed and produced on Iso’s behalf by Giotto Bizzarrini. However, after the two men fell out in mid 1965, the A3/C became the Bizzarrini 5300 GT while the more luxurious A3/L styled by Bertone (and also designed by Bizzarrini) gained exclusive use of the Grifo moniker.
Currently on offer at the DD Classics showroom in London is one of Mike Hailwood’s Iso Grifos: a 1968 example which was reputedly the fifth right-hand drive Grifo supplied to the UK.
Originally built for Sir Gordon O’Neil with a classic red on black colour scheme, this Grifo was also configured in GL300 as opposed to the more commonly seen GL365 trim which meant a single Carter AFB double-barrel carburettor and 10.5:1 compression ratio. Peak output was 295bhp at 5000rpm and 360lb-ft at 3200rpm.
Today, this sensational matching numbers Grifo, which was owned by one of motor racing’s most revered characters, is being offered in excellent condition with extensive documentation.
Reprinted below is DD Classics’ description:
Ex-Mike Hailwood
Total ownership history documented from new
Built for Sir Gordon O'Neil
One of only 35 RHD examples produced
5th Grifo built, supplied new to the UK
Fully-matching numbers
Presented in its original colours
Extensive history on file including original build sheets
Continuous history from 1986 to the present
Campagnolo wheels
The perfect blend of Giugiaro styling and American muscle
The 1968 Iso Grifo GL300 is more than just a car—it’s a rolling work of art with a rich, storied history and an unparalleled pedigree.
A true collector’s dream, this particular example was originally built for Sir Gordon O’Neil, and later owned by none other than racing legend Mike Hailwood, one of the greatest motorcycle racers of all time. This provenance alone makes it a standout, but the car’s exclusivity and design elevate it to an even higher level.
This Grifo is one of just 35 right-hand drive (RHD) examples ever produced, a rarity in itself. As the fifth Grifo ever built and supplied new to the UK, it holds a prestigious place in the early history of Iso’s most iconic model.
What makes this car even more exceptional is its fully documented ownership history from new, with continuous records from 1986 to the present. For any serious collector, this level of traceability is invaluable, ensuring the car’s authenticity and its place in automotive history.
Presented in its original, factory-specified colours, this Grifo has retained its matching-numbers status, a true testament to its preservation and careful stewardship. The extensive history file, which includes the original build sheets, offers a fascinating glimpse into the car’s creation and subsequent life. Every detail has been meticulously recorded, ensuring that this Grifo remains an impeccable example of what Iso intended when it first left the factory.
Aesthetically, the Iso Grifo GL300 is the perfect marriage of Italian design and American muscle. The iconic styling was penned by legendary designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, whose sleek, aggressive lines have become synonymous with mid-century Italian automotive design. The Grifo’s low, muscular stance and long bonnet give it a commanding presence, while the Campagnolo wheels add a touch of motorsport heritage and sophistication.
Under the hood, the car is powered by a robust American V8 engine, which delivers thrilling performance and a powerful, unmistakable soundtrack.
This unique blend of Italian flair and American engineering results in a car that offers both beauty and brawn—a high-performance GT with the heart of a muscle car.
From a mechanical standpoint, the Grifo offers a driving experience unlike any other. The power of its American V8 combined with its lightweight chassis ensures that this car is as exhilarating to drive as it is to look at. Yet, despite its raw power, the car’s handling remains refined, thanks to its Italian engineering pedigree. It’s a car that offers the best of both worlds: high-speed cruising comfort and razor-sharp responsiveness on twisty roads.
This Grifo also benefits from an extensive file of documentation that chronicles its journey through time. The original build sheets provide a rare insight into its factory specifications, while the continuous history from 1986 to the present ensures that every aspect of its ownership has been carefully preserved. For anyone seeking a historically significant, investment-grade classic, the value of this meticulous documentation cannot be overstated.
In every sense, this 1968 Iso Grifo GL300 is an automotive treasure. Its rarity as one of only 35 RHD examples, combined with its illustrious ownership history and fully matching numbers, makes it a true standout in the world of collector cars. Add to that the stunning Giugiaro design and the unmistakable roar of its American V8 engine, and you have a car that represents the pinnacle of 1960s GT motoring.
This is a very special opportunity to acquire a piece of automotive history that perfectly blends performance, design, and provenance. Whether displayed in a private collection or enjoyed on the open road, this Iso Grifo GL300 is destined to captivate and impress for years to come.
