A rare and highly valuable 1964 Iso Grifo A3 Stradale was impounded by Italian authorities during the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este this past weekend, drawing significant attention at one of the world’s most exclusive classic car gatherings.
According to local reports, the car, entered by American collector Thomas Shannon, was stopped on a public road in the town of Cernobbio by provincial police. Authorities cited the driver for lacking an international driving permit and failing to provide valid proof of Italian insurance. The vehicle also reportedly had no visible license plate.
The Iso Grifo A3 Stradale, a street version of Iso’s race-derived GT car, is one of just 13 built and is estimated to be worth over $1 million. The model, a collaboration between famed engineer Giotto Bizzarrini and designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, combined sleek Italian design with American V8 power from Chevrolet, and was capable of reaching nearly 190 mph in its era.
Officials said the car was impounded due to unpaid fines totaling approximately €1,274, or $1,444. Though the amount is relatively modest in the context of the vehicle’s value, Italian law requires proper documentation and licensing for all vehicles operated on public roads — even during high-profile events.
The incident recalls a similar case at last year’s Concorso, when a classic Fiat Dino was reportedly seized under comparable circumstances. As the popularity of international concours events continues to rise, so too does the scrutiny from local law enforcement, particularly when vehicles cross borders without complete paperwork.
Despite the setback, the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este continued without interruption, showcasing dozens of rare and historic automobiles across the picturesque shores of Lake Como. Shannon is expected to retrieve the vehicle following resolution of the fines and documentation review.