Japan vs Italy — 1968 vs 1962
| 117 Coupe 1600 GT | Rivolta IR 300 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 120 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | — | 340 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,584 cc | 5,359 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 7.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 142 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 15.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,998 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,450 mm | 2,650 mm |
| Length | 4,280 mm | 4,690 mm |
| Units Produced | 86,192 | 797 |
| Original MSRP | — | $8,700 |
| Value (Excellent) | $75,000 | $200,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1968 Isuzu 117 Coupe 1600 GT excels in stronger collectibility, better value, while the 1962 Iso Rivolta IR 300 stands out for more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1968 Isuzu 117 Coupe 1600 GT against the 1962 Iso Rivolta IR 300 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Japan versus Italy. The 1962 Iso Rivolta IR 300 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 120 hp, a 180-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Isuzu 117 Coupe uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 1,584 cc, while the Iso Rivolta relies on a V8 OHV with 5,359 cc. The 1962 Iso Rivolta IR 300 claims a higher top speed at 142 mph compared to 115 mph. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 797 units built, the 1962 Iso Rivolta IR 300 is considerably scarcer than the Isuzu 117 Coupe's 86,192 examples. On the collector market, the 1962 Iso Rivolta IR 300 commands a significant premium over the 1968 Isuzu 117 Coupe 1600 GT, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.