1966 Bizzarrini GT Strada 5300
A powerful Italian-American hybrid emerged in the automotive world of the 1960s, known as the 1966 Bizzarrini GT Strada 5300. This sports car combined Italian design flair with American muscle, creating a unique and potent package.
The GT Strada 5300’s low-slung body caught the eye immediately. At just 43 inches tall, it had a sleek profile that hinted at its performance potential.
The aluminum body, shaped by skilled craftsmen, contributed to both its striking looks and light weight. Large wheel arches housed gold-painted wheels, adding a touch of glamour to the aggressive stance.
Beneath the long hood sat a Chevrolet-sourced 5,359 cc OHV V-8 engine. This powerplant produced 350 bhp, giving the GT Strada 5300 impressive performance.
A single four-barrel carburetor fed the engine, balancing power delivery and fuel consumption. The engine’s growl exited through a carefully tuned exhaust system, providing an auditory reminder of the car’s capabilities.
Power reached the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission. This gearbox allowed drivers to fully exploit the engine’s potential, whether on winding mountain roads or high-speed autobahn runs. The transmission’s precise action contributed to the engaging driving experience.
The GT Strada 5300’s suspension setup aimed to provide both comfort and handling precision. Up front, independent wishbones worked with coil springs and telescopic shocks. An anti-roll bar helped control body lean during cornering.
The rear used a de Dion axle, an advanced solution for its time. Coil springs, hydraulic shocks, and another anti-roll bar completed the rear suspension, aiming to keep the tires firmly planted on the road.
One of the GT Strada 5300’s most interesting features was its engine placement. Designer Giotto Bizzarrini pushed the engine back in the chassis by about 16 inches compared to more conventional layouts. This “front-mid-engine” configuration aimed to improve weight distribution and handling balance.
In the market, the GT Strada 5300 faced stiff competition from established sports car manufacturers. Ferrari and Lamborghini offered alternatives that appealed to similar buyers. However, the Bizzarrini’s unique blend of American power and Italian design helped it carve out its own niche.
Production of the GT Strada 5300 was limited, with only 133 examples built between 1965 and 1968. This rarity has made the model increasingly sought after by collectors in recent years. Each car was essentially hand-built, leading to small variations between individual vehicles.
Credit: RM Sotheby’s
