The Bizzarrini 5300 GT: A Masterpiece from an Automotive Legend

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In the mid-1960s, Giotto Bizzarrini, a renowned former Ferrari engineer, embarked on a journey to create his own sports car that would leave an indelible mark on the automotive world. The result of his vision was the Bizzarrini 5300 GT, a machine that not only redefined sports car engineering but also reflected the culmination of his illustrious career.
Now to truly understand the significants of the car you need to get to know The Man Behind the Car
Giotto Bizzarrini was no ordinary engineer; he was a multifaceted talent who combined the skills of a test driver, designer, and brilliant engineer. After earning an engineering degree from the University of Pisa, he started his career as a teacher. However, his true calling lay in the world of automobiles.
Bizzarrini's career took flight when he joined Alfa Romeo. In Milan, he worked as a test driver and contributed significantly to the development of the 1954 Giulietta chassis. His remarkable problem-solving skills quickly garnered attention, and he soon found himself at the heart of Italy's automotive industry.
It was during his time at Alfa Romeo that Bizzarrini's talents caught the eye of none other than Enzo Ferrari. In 1957, Bizzarrini joined Ferrari as a test driver, and his contributions to sports car development were instrumental. His expertise led to his promotion to the role of sports car development chief at Ferrari.
In this capacity, Bizzarrini played a pivotal role in the creation of several iconic Ferrari models, including the 250 GT 2+2/GTE, the Testa Rossa V12 3-liter, and the 250 GT Berlinetta Passo Corto. However, his most enduring legacy was the Ferrari 250 GTO, a vehicle that would become legendary in the world of motorsport.
In a surprising turn of events, Bizzarrini and four other key figures at Ferrari found themselves fired in 1962. The reason behind this abrupt departure was an ultimatum they had given to Enzo Ferrari, expressing their dissatisfaction with his wife's growing influence on decision-making. This move marked the end of their tenure at Ferrari but marked the beginning of a new chapter.
Undeterred by their exit from Ferrari, Bizzarrini and his colleagues established ATS (Automobili Turismo e Sport) with the ambitious goal of creating Formula One and GT cars that could challenge and even surpass Ferrari. While they didn't achieve this lofty goal, ATS remained moderately successful for a few years.
Simultaneously, in 1962, Bizzarrini founded Società Autostar, an engineering firm through which he would undertake independent projects. His first major project was a collaboration with Iso Automotoveicoli S.p.A, followed by his work in the development of the iconic Lamborghini V12 engine.
Now During his tenure at Iso, Bizzarrini played a pivotal role in crafting the Iso Grifo, particularly the race version known as the A3/C (C for Corsa, meaning race in Italian). This track-focused variant was notably different from its road-legal counterpart. And featured a lower, lighter, and more aerodynamic design. BTW I made a whole video on the Grifo, so if you would like to know more about that car, go and watch that video after this one.
Now To power this racing machine, Bizzarrini chose the Chevrolet Corvette C2-derived small-block 327 V8 engine. This engine, already known for its reliability and power, was further improved in Italy, generating an impressive 300 to 350 horsepower.
In 1964, after a tense dispute with Iso owner Renzo Rivolta, Bizzarrini ended his contract with the company. This marked the birth of Bizzarrini S.p.A., which continued the independent development of the A3/C into what would become the 5300 GT Strada, the road-legal version of this racing icon.
The 5300 GT Strada retained the A3/C's low-slung body, designed by the renowned Bertone's Giorgetto Giugiaro. It featured exquisite craftsmanship and stunning aesthetics from every angle. Under its hood was the same 5.4-liter Chevrolet engine, now tuned to deliver 365 horsepower.
This was a race car adapted for street use, featuring four-wheel disc brakes, an advanced suspension system, and a powertrain built to conquer the track. While its acceleration to 62 mph in less than 7 seconds and top speed of around 168 mph may not seem exceptional by modern standards, the 5300 GT Strada was revered for its impeccable handling, incredible sound, and an unmatched driving experience.
The racing DNA of the Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada was further validated in motorsport. The Corsa version, boasting a tighter steering ratio, increased power, a lightweight body, and no seat belts, went to Le Mans in 1965. This time, it finished 9th overall and secured a class win, solidifying its status as a historic racing car.

#Bizzarinni #Strada #Corsa