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Established as an automaker in 1902 by Cesare Isotta and the brothers Fraschini (Oreste, Vincenzo and Antonio), from around 1920 to the early 1930s Isottas were more popular in the United States than any other foreign marque except for Rolls-Royce. One of the world's most innovative automakers, IF introduced four wheel brakes in 1909, and the Tipo 8 series, unveiled in August 1912, featured an in-line eight cylinder engine, the first of its type put into series production anywhere in the world. The Tipo 8A series, introduced in 1924, offered 115hp, a redesigned frame and suspension and Isotta's highly regarded three-speed synchromesh transmission. In America, where nearly a third of Isottas were sold, the price of an 8A exceeded even that of a Model J Duesenberg; a chassis alone was priced at $9,750, and coachbuilt models were demanding upwards of $20,000.

The Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8A had the most powerful production straight eight engine when it was introduced in the mid-1920s. Most models were mounted on a very long 145 wheelbase chassis. There was an original guarantee that these cars would do 90mph, with the capability of running at both 90mph and 6mph in the same gear. About 950 Tipo 8As were built during the 1925-1931 model run. By 1931 the company was struggling as the Great Depression in the USA had severely affected sales of expensive vehicles. Thus, in order to boost sales, the company introduced a new model, the Tipo 8B.

The company was nearly saved by Henry Ford who was anxious to produce Isottas in Detroit and have his cars built in Italy, but the Italian government blocked this deal. Instead in 1932 the aircraft maker Count Caproni di Talideo, who considered the aero engines as indispensable for his own business, acquired the company. Car production virtually ceased that year and apart from a brief attempt at a rear engined V8 vehicle in the post-war period, Isotta Fraschini disappeared as a car manufacturer.

Important Chassis & Sales

Chassis 1485 -- Roadster by Castagna: This particular car is believed to be the New York Auto Show car of 1929, presented on the Castagna stand at the Hotel Commodore Automobile Salon in New York City. The car's interior features a wealth of detail with the use of only the finest materials complemented to the exterior by Grebel headlamps (Castagna were at the time official representatives of this famous French manufacturer). Matching the splendid upholstery is beautiful inlaid woodwork together with art deco grab handles. The attention to detail is quite exquisite with all the brightwork on the car finished in polished nickel. Proportionally the Isotta Fraschini is a visual delight from the beautiful radiator and correct period mascot through the long hood to the sweeping fenders, rear mounted spare wheels and tool trays.

Paris - On Saturday 12 February 2005, Christie's International Motor Cars Department will stage a sale within the confines of Retromobile. (estimate: EURO325,000-425,000). The car that Christie's is proud to be offering, chassis 1485, previously formed part of the famous Harrah Collection in Reno, Nevada, later joining the ranks of the automobiles in one of France's premier class car collection.

Story by Christie's Inc.