Bizzarrini [1] (Italy)

Bizzarrini was an Italian automotive manufacturer founded in 1962 by Giotto Bizzarrini, a former engineer for Alfa Romeo and Ferrari. The company initially operated as a subcontractor for the automotive industry, producing components such as the Lamborghini V12 engine and chassis for Iso. Bizzarrini's foray into car production began with the introduction of the Strada 5300 in 1965, a lightweight two-seat sports car that featured a 5.4-liter Chevrolet engine capable of producing 365 horsepower. Although intended for both road and competition use, the Strada 5300 struggled to find its market niche and was produced in limited numbers until 1969. In the United States, it was marketed as the Bizzarrini GT America.

In 1967, Bizzarrini launched its second model, the Europa, which bore a resemblance to a smaller version of the Strada. The Europa featured a fiberglass body, a steel platform chassis, and was equipped with four-wheel disc brakes and independent suspension. It was powered by a 1.9-liter Opel engine that produced 110 horsepower, with claims of a top speed of 127 mph. However, the model did not achieve significant sales, contributing to the decline of the brand.

Before ceasing operations in 1969, Bizzarrini developed the P538, also known as the Spider, a mid-engined sports racer that ultimately did not find commercial success. A road version named the Varedo was planned for Iso in 1972 but never reached production. The brief existence of Bizzarrini highlighted the challenges faced by small manufacturers in the competitive automotive market of the 1960s.