One of the leading early names in Italian motorcars, Isotta Fraschini was established in Milan in 1898 by Cesare Isotta and Vincenzo Fraschini, initially as Renault agents and then, in 1901, with their own automobile. Many of the company’s finest early designs were credited to the talented engineer Giustino Cattaneo, who was best-known for his four-cylinder models of the Edwardian era. Thanks to Cattaneo, Isotta Fraschini enjoyed an enviable early competition record, on both sides of the Atlantic, including victories in the Coppa Florio and at major East Coast United States races.

Among Isotta Fraschini’s fine models of this era was the Tipo PM, which featured a 6,082-cc engine with a single updraft carburettor, delivering upwards of 100 horsepower through a three-speed gearbox and chain drive. It was a legitimate performance car of the period, with exciting design to match its performance thanks to fine Italian coachbuilders. Historians believe that only about 60 of these cars were made, and that only three remain in existence.

The Tipo PM offered here likely came to the United States early in life. In 1986 it was acquired from a dealer in Michigan by the prominent vintage automobile collector, Joe Loecy of Chardon, Ohio, who mounted a period-style Grand Prix body and sold the car in 2001 to noted Brass automobile collector Dick King of Connecticut. It was restored for Mr King between beginning in 2011 by the California-based shop of Stu Laidlaw, who reportedly located the present two-seater coachwork, bearing the name of Pavesi & Crespi of Milan, in Mr Loecy’s attic, bearing a label that it was for this chassis. The completed car was awarded second-in-class at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. It went on to change hands in 2015, joining the British collection from which it is now offered.

Still in very attractive restored condition, this Isotta Fraschini has enjoyed good mechanical care, with its rare twin-spark magneto ignition, as well as a modern electric start, enabling easy use in tours and events. Its engine and transmission have been fully rebuilt under current ownership by Historic Vehicle Restoration, Ltd. Surely one of the few Isotta Fraschinis of its era available outside of major private collections, and in beautiful overall order, it would be a tempting addition to any enthusiast’s stable.