Isuzu 117 Coupé Coupe 1975
General description :
Isuzu Motors had a relatively short existence in the US Market, but the company is one of Japan’s oldest automakers, with loyal fans worldwide, and with roots back to the dawn of the Japanese motor industry. Then known as the Tokyo Ishikawajima Shipbuilding and Engineering Co., they transitioned from shipbuilding to motorcar manufacture in 1918, building British Wolseley cars under license. They briefly merged with DAT to form Sumida, which produced Japanese military vehicles during World War II. After the war, DAT split off to become Nissan (Datsun), and Isuzu Motors was formed in 1949.
While Isuzu of today is widely recognized for its robust diesel-powered trucks, they have a rich history of producing stylish and innovative passenger cars. The first Isuzu car designed entirely in-house was the Bellel of 1961. The Florian replaced it in 1967, and the line was expanded to include the smaller Bellet and the sporty 117 Coupe. Various diesel and petrol engines powered the new range, with single or twin overhead cams and electronic fuel injection available as early as 1970. The star of the show was the 117 Coupe, boasting a beautiful two-door coupe body designed by the maestro of Italian style, Giorgetto Giugiaro.
The 117 was one of Giugiaro’s first major projects as Styling and Design Director at Ghia. Before his brief tenure at Ghia, he worked for Bertone and Fiat Special Design, building a staggering portfolio that included such legendary machines as the Maserati Ghibli, Alfa Romeo Giulia, Iso Grifo, and De Tomaso Mangusta. He left Ghia to form Italdesign in 1967, where he flourished for the next four decades. Giugiaro’s Italdesign created such iconic cars as the Mk1 Volkswagen Golf, DeLorean, BMW M1, Lancia Delta, and many more. His ability to pen such diverse and universally acclaimed designs earned him the accolade Car Designer of the Century in 1999.
For the Isuzu 117, Giugiaro found inspiration from one of his Bertone designs, the Fiat Dino Coupe. With its flowing profile, crisp edges, and graceful fastback roof, the Isuzu 117 was one of the best-looking Japanese cars of its time, and the basic shape remained relevant for the entirety of its 13-year production run. Under the skin, the 117 was offered with a wide variety of four-cylinder engines, including a diesel – and was touted as the world’s first diesel-powered sports car. The chassis was conventional, with a simple yet proven independent front/live axle rear suspension design. The 117 was continually refined and improved with just one styling refresh coming in 1977. While it is a widely adored and admired classic in Japan, the 117 is virtually unknown on our shores. But its attractive styling and robust underpinnings make it a welcome addition to the stable of a new or seasoned collector of JDM classics.
This lovely 1975 Isuzu 117 XE Coupe is an extremely rare sight on American roads and is likely one of just a handful that found their way stateside. This superb example is undoubtedly one of the best in the US, having spent several years in an eclectic private collection of rare and unusual vehicles. It has been beautifully maintained and is offered in excellent condition inside and out. The previous owner ensured it remained in top running order and showed it occasionally, including at the inaugural Pebble Beach Japanese Automotive Invitational in 2018.
The Giugiaro-penned shape looks superb in the dark metallic green paintwork, highlighted by thin, polished window trims and slimline chrome bumpers. The body lines are crisp and well defined, with straight panels and factory-appropriate fitment. True to most Japanese cars of the era, the 117 feels well-built and thoughtfully engineered. Lights, lenses, and trim are excellent, with pleasing details including the iconic JDM wing mirrors and Panasport-style alloy wheels.
The stylish interior is trimmed in black vinyl as was typical of the period and highlighted with an attractive satin-finish wood instrument panel. The cockpit has a distinctly driver-focused feel with gauges, switches, and controls falling easily to hand. Equipment includes a three-spoke sport steering wheel, electric windows, AM/FM cassette player, and factory air conditioning, which still functions well. Rear seats feature integrated headrests and offer a respectable amount of passenger space for a small coupe. Overall, the interior trim is remarkably well-preserved in original condition.
Under the forward-hinged bonnet sits the 1.8-liter SOHC inline-four, fed by a single downdraft carburetor and mated to a four-speed manual gearbox. The presentation is tidy and honest, showing the car has been well-maintained. It runs and drives very well, with crisp performance to back up the svelte good looks.
Interest in JDM classics is on the rise, with many iconic Japanese cars enjoying rising values and increased attention from collectors worldwide. This marvelous Isuzu 117 Coupe represents superb value and is an ideal entry point into this fascinating and increasingly popular aspect of car collecting. It is a turn-key, highly enjoyable GT car combining the best of Japanese engineering excellence with unmistakably Italian style.
Offers welcome and trades considered
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6759
1975 Isuzu 117 Coupé Coupe is listed sold on ClassicDigest in St. Louis by Mark Hyman for $36500.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Isuzu Model : 117 Coupé Model Version : Coupe Engine size : 0.0 Model Year : 1975 Sub type : Coupé Location : Missouri
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About Isuzu
The history of Isuzu, a Japanese automotive manufacturer, is a story of resilience and adaptability, with a rich and diverse range of models. Let's explore this journey, highlighting some of the different models produced over the years.The Early Years:
Isuzu's roots can be traced back to the Tokyo Ishikawajima Shipbuilding and Engineering Company, which was established in 1916. Initially, the company primarily focused on manufacturing trucks and diesel engines. The company adopted the name Isuzu after the Isuzu River in Japan, known for its clear and powerful water flow.
Post-War Recovery:
After World War II, Isuzu shifted its focus towards manufacturing consumer vehicles, particularly trucks. In 1953, they introduced the Isuzu Hillman Minx, a compact car, marking their entry into the passenger car market. The Minx was well-received, and it laid the foundation for Isuzu's future expansion into the automotive industry.
The Bellel and the Bellett:
In the 1960s, Isuzu introduced the Bellel, a mid-sized sedan. It was known for its robustness and durability, making it popular in various markets, including Europe. Isuzu's success with the Bellel prompted them to produce the Bellett, a smaller car. The Bellett was available in various body styles, including sedans, coupes, and station wagons, and became a symbol of the brand's ability to offer versatility.
The Isuzu Faster:
The 1970s saw the rise of the Isuzu Faster, also known as the Isuzu KB and Isuzu D-Max in various markets. This pickup truck became a staple for Isuzu and earned a reputation for its reliability and off-road capabilities. The Isuzu Faster contributed to Isuzu's global presence and brand recognition.
Isuzu Trooper and Rodeo:
In the 1980s and 1990s, Isuzu introduced the Trooper and the Rodeo. The Trooper was a full-sized SUV with a robust, truck-based chassis, capable of off-road adventures. The Rodeo was a smaller SUV that catered to a broader market segment. Both models were well-received in various parts of the world and further solidified Isuzu's reputation for producing capable and rugged vehicles.
Isuzu in Partnership:
Isuzu entered partnerships with other automakers, most notably with General Motors (GM). The Isuzu Gemini was rebadged as the Chevrolet Spectrum, and Isuzu manufactured diesel engines for various GM vehicles. This collaboration extended to the Isuzu Oasis, a minivan, which was essentially a rebadged Honda Odyssey.
The Legacy and Modern Times:
Over the years, Isuzu has continued to produce a wide range of commercial vehicles, from trucks to buses, solidifying its reputation for durability and reliability. In recent times, Isuzu has also focused on producing environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient vehicles, including hybrid and electric models.
Isuzu's history is a testament to its adaptability and resilience in a competitive automotive industry. Their diverse lineup of models has catered to various markets and consumer preferences, making Isuzu a prominent and enduring brand in the global automotive landscape.