Iso Rivolta IR300 (1962-74)
The Iso Rivolta IR 300 had a total production run of **797 units** from 1962 to 1970.
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Price New: In 1962, the new price of an **Iso Rivolta IR300** in the UK was approximately **£5,000**.
Using the average annual inflation rate of **5.11%** between 1962 and 2025, **£5,000 in 1962** would be equivalent to approximately **£108,000 to £110,000** in 2025.
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Rivals
In 1962, the main rivals of the Iso Rivolta IR300 included cars like the **Jaguar E-Type** and the **Porsche 911**. Here are their approximate new prices in the UK:
- **Jaguar E-Type**: £2,000 to £2,500
- **Porsche 911**: £2,500 to £3,000
These prices are approximate and could vary based on specific models and configurations.
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Recorded in UK 2025
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PLEASE NOTE: The information provided below is given in averages across Northern Ireland at the date specified. Petrol reflect average prices for four star fuel in litres.
Road Tax: In 1962, the cost of road tax in the UK for a car like the **Iso Rivolta IR300**, which had an engine size over 1549cc, was **£50 per year**.
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Petrol: In 1962, the average price of four-star petrol in the UK was approximately 22.5 pence per litre.
Using the average annual inflation rate of **5.11%** between 1962 and 2025, **22.5 pence in 1962** would be equivalent to approximately **£1.20** in 2025.
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Insurance: While exact historical data on insurance premiums for specific vehicles like the Iso Rivolta IR300 is scarce, we can estimate based on available information:
In 1962, annual insurance premiums for average vehicles ranged between £15 and £25.
High-performance or luxury vehicles often incurred premiums two to three times higher than standard vehicles due to their increased risk profile.
Given these considerations, it is reasonable to estimate that insuring an Iso Rivolta IR 300 in 1962 would have cost approximately £50–£75 annually. This figure reflects its status as a rare, high-performance sports car with significant value and desirability.
£75 in 1963 is equivalent to £2,007.05 in 2025 terms based on purchasing power adjusted for inflation.
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1962/COST OF LIVING UK
In 1962, the average annual salary in the UK was approximately **£1,000** for male manual workers and **£600** for female manual workers.
Adjusting for inflation, the average annual salary in the UK in 1962 would be approximately **£60,000 to £70,000** in 2025 terms.
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In 1962, the average price of a house in the UK was around **£2,500**. Adjusting for inflation, this would be approximately **£60,000 to £65,000** in today's terms.
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In 1962, the average price of a new car in the UK was around **£1,000**. Adjusting for inflation, this would be approximately **£25,000 to £30,000** in today's terms.
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In 1962, the average price of a loaf of bread in the UK was around **11.5d** (approximately **£1.50 to £2** in today's terms).
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In 1962, the average cost per mile for a bus journey in the UK was around **1 penny per mile** (approximately **£0.03 to £0.04** in today's terms).
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In 1962, the average price per mile for a taxi journey in the UK was around **2 shillings and 6 pence** (approximately **£1.50 to £2** in today's terms).
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In 1962, the average cost per mile for a railway journey in the UK was around **1 penny per mile** (approximately **£0.03 to £0.04** in today's terms).
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In 1962, there were approximately **5 million vehicles** using UK roads. This included a mix of private cars, commercial vehicles, and motorcycles.
As of 2025, there are approximately **41.4 million vehicles** on UK roads.
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In 1962, the population of the UK was approximately **53.3 million** people.
As of 2025, the population of the UK is estimated to be around **69.5 million** people - Worldometer](https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/uk-population/).
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COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles
Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.
The Iso Rivolta IR300, like many classic cars, has a few common faults that owners and enthusiasts should be aware of:
1. **Rust**: The Iso Rivolta IR300 is prone to rust, particularly in the chassis and body panels. Regular inspections and proper storage can help mitigate this issue.
2. **Electrical Issues**: The electrical systems can cause problems due to age and wear. Wiring and connections may need to be inspected and possibly replaced.
3. **Suspension Wear**: The suspension components, especially the De Dion rear axle, can wear out over time and may require maintenance or replacement.
4. **Engine and Transmission**: While the Chevrolet V8 engines used in the IR300 are robust, they require regular maintenance. The BorgWarner transmission, although reliable, can feel outdated by modern standards.
Regular maintenance and careful inspection can help keep the Iso Rivolta IR300 in good running condition.
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Generations/Trim Levels
Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries
Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.
The Iso Rivolta had **two main generations**:
1. **First Generation (1962-1970)**: This included the Iso Rivolta IR 300, which was the company's first luxury grand tourer.
2. **Second Generation (1969-1974)**: This included models like the Iso Lele, which was introduced as a more modern grand tourer.
These generations reflect the evolution of Iso Rivolta's design and engineering over the years.
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Engines
The Iso Rivolta IR 300 was offered with several powerful engines throughout its production run from 1962 to 1970:
1. **Chevrolet 327 V8**: 5.4-liter engine, producing around 300 horsepower.
2. **Chevrolet 350 V8**: 5.7-liter engine, introduced in later models for increased performance.
These engines contributed to the Iso Rivolta's reputation as a high-performance grand tourer with a blend of Italian design and American muscle.
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Performance
The Iso Rivolta IR 300 had impressive performance for its time, thanks to its powerful American V8 engines. Here are the performance specifications for the key versions:
### Iso Rivolta IR 300 (1962-1970)
- **Engine**: 5.4-liter Chevrolet 327 V8
- **Power**: 300 bhp (304 PS/224 kW) at 5000 rpm
- **Torque**: 488 Nm (360 lb-ft) at 3200 rpm
- **Top Speed**: 219 km/h (136 mph)
- **0-100 km/h (0-62 mph)**: Approximately 7.5 seconds
### Iso Rivolta IR 340 (1964-1970)
- **Engine**: 5.4-liter Chevrolet 327 V8 (high-performance version)
- **Power**: 340 bhp (345 PS/254 kW)
- **Top Speed**: 230 km/h (143 mph)
- **0-100 km/h (0-62 mph)**: Approximately 6.5 seconds
These specifications highlight the Iso Rivolta's blend of Italian design and American muscle, making it a standout grand tourer of its era.
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Rivals
In 1962, the main rivals of the **Iso Rivolta IR300** included the **Jaguar E-Type** and the **Porsche 911**. Here's a comparison of their performance:
### Jaguar E-Type
- **Engine**: 3.8-liter inline-6
- **Power**: 300 horsepower at 6000 rpm
- **Torque**: 323 Nm (238 lb-ft) at 4000 rpm
- **Transmission**: 4-speed manual
- **Top Speed**: 150 mph (241 km/h)
- **Acceleration**: 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds
### Porsche 911
- **Engine**: 2.0-liter flat-6
- **Power**: 130 horsepower (97 kW) at 6100 rpm
- **Torque**: 181 Nm (133 lb-ft) at 4600 rpm
- **Transmission**: 4-speed manual
- **Top Speed**: 133 mph (214 km/h)
- **Acceleration**: 0-60 mph in 7.5 seconds
Both cars offered impressive performance and were highly regarded in their respective categories.
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Designer/Dimensions
The **Iso Rivolta IR300** was designed by **Giorgetto Giugiaro** at **Bertone**. Giugiaro is widely regarded as one of the greatest automobile designers of the 20th century.
Here are the dimensions of the Iso Rivolta IR300:
- **Wheelbase**: 2700 mm (106.3 inches)
- **Length**: 4760 mm (187.4 inches)
- **Width**: 1752 mm (69.0 inches)
- **Height**: 1425 mm (56.1 inches)
- **Curb Weight**: 1590 kg (3,505 lbs)
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Spares/Specialists NI
Finding spares for an Iso Rivolta can be quite challenging due to its rarity. However, here are a few places in the UK and Ireland where you might be able to locate parts:
1. **[ISO Restoration](https://www.isorestorations.com/)**: They specialize in restoring Iso cars, including the Iso Rivolta. They have a wealth of experience and might be able to source or fabricate parts.
2. **[Classic Engine Parts](https://www.classicengineparts.co.uk**: They offer a range of parts for classic cars, including the Iso Rivolta. You can check their website for specific parts or contact them directly.
For specialist garage services in Northern Ireland, here are a few options:
1. **[Stephen Groves Jaguar Specialist](https://www.stephen-groves.co.uk/)**: While they specialize in Jaguars, they have extensive experience with classic cars and might be able to help with your Iso Rivolta.
2. **[McMillan Specialist Cars](https://mcmillanspecialistcars.com/)**: Located in Antrim, they are known for their expertise with high-end and classic cars, including brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Aston Martin.
3. **[JW Service Centre](http://www.jwservicecentre.com/)**: Based in Coleraine, they offer comprehensive service and repair for a variety of vehicles, including classic cars.
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Racing
The Iso Rivolta did have a presence in racing, particularly with the Iso Rivolta 300 GT. This model was homologated for racing and competed in various events. The Iso Rivolta 300 GT was known for its robust performance and reliability, making it a competitive choice in endurance races.
Additionally, the Iso Rivolta brand was involved in Formula 1 racing through the Iso-Marlboro team, which later became part of the Williams Racing team. This involvement in motorsport helped to enhance the brand's reputation for performance and engineering excellence.
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Valuation
The value of an Iso Rivolta IR300 and IR340 in the UK can vary based on their condition and provenance. Here are some general price ranges:
### Iso Rivolta IR300
- **Good Condition**: Approximately £60,000 to £80,000.
- **Excellent Condition**: Between £100,000 and £110,000 offered for £104,350 - Classic Trader](https://www.classic-trader.com/uk/cars/listing/iso/rivolta/rivolta-300/1966/337852).
- **Perfect Condition**: Up to £150,000 to £170,000.
### Iso Rivolta IR340
- **Good Condition**: Approximately £75,000 to £90,000.
- **Excellent Condition**: Between £110,000 and £120,000.
- **Perfect Condition**: Up to £160,000 to £180,000.
These values can fluctuate based on market demand and the specific condition of the car.
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Clubs
There are owners clubs for Iso cars in Northern Ireland! One notable club is the **Association of Old Vehicle Clubs in Northern Ireland (AOVC)**, which caters to a wide range of classic vehicles, including Iso cars. They organize various events and runs throughout the year, providing a great community for enthusiasts.
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