Founded in 1900 in Milan by Cesare Isotta and Vincenzo Fraschini, Isotta Fraschini was originally an importer of French automobiles prior to manufacturing vehicles under their own nameplate beginning in 1904. Early Isotta automobiles utilized innovative mechanical components, such as four-wheel brakes and overhead camshaft four-cylinder engines.

Unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in 1919, the Tipo 8 held the distinction of the first production automobile powered by an inline eight-cylinder engine. These massive and opulent touring vehicles were a favorite among royalty, celebrities, and affluent clients around the world. The 8A that followed improved on the original design with an increase in engine displacement and a stronger chassis capable of accommodating more elaborate coachwork. In all, approximately just 950 of the 8A and its derivatives – the 8A S and SS – were built between 1924 and 1932.

According to a restoration summary on file, this Tipo 8A, clothed in Imperial Cabriolet coachwork by Milanese firm Carrozzeria Castagna, was intended for the American market, and was one of four Castagna-bodied Isotta Fraschinis displayed at the 1929 New York International Auto Show, held at the Hotel Commodore in Manhattan. Though the Imperial Cabriolet’s subsequent history is not known, it is believed to have remained in US ownership until 1973, when German collector Gerhard von Raffay purchased the majestic 8A, exporting it to Hamburg where a complete restoration was immediately embarked upon.

After 12 years of ownership, Mr. von Raffay sold the Isotta to businessman and renowned car collector Thomas Monaghan of Ann Arbor, Michigan, in 1985. Mr. Monaghan assembled a collection containing more than 240 classic automobiles, with highlights including the Bugatti Type 41 Royale Berline de Voyage and a Duesenberg Model J Convertible Coupe originally owned by George Whittell. Circa 1992, as Mr. Monaghan sold off his entire collection, the Imperial Cabriolet found a new custodian in David Walters, a San Diego-based real estate developer. Under Mr. Walters’ ownership, the Isotta was disassembled for restoration.

Following Mr. Walters’ passing, the Isotta was purchased in a partially disassembled state by Paul Toberty in 2016. Mr. Toberty entrusted Alan Taylor Company of Escondido, California, to perform a restoration of the Imperial Cabriolet. Meticulous attention was paid during this process to restore the car as accurately as possible; this included the fabrication of new door handles and window levers. The project amassed over 2,700 hours of labor in all. The Isotta debuted at the 2017 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance®, where it was awarded Second in Class in the Isotta Fraschini Castagna Coachwork Closed Class. Having only been shown on one occasion, discerning collectors have the opportunity to exhibit this handsome Isotta Fraschini at numerous concours events worldwide.

*Please note that this vehicle has been in long-term static storage and may not be currently operational. It will require mechanical attention prior to road use.