USA vs Italy — 1965 vs 1962
| Avanti II 327/350 V8 | Rivolta IR 300 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 330 lb-ft | 340 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,735 cc | 5,359 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.0 sec | 7.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 142 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.0 sec | 15.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,500 lbs | 2,998 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,769 mm | 2,650 mm |
| Length | 4,877 mm | 4,690 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 797 |
| Original MSRP | $7,200 | $8,700 |
| Value (Excellent) | $50,000 | $200,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
The 1962 Iso Rivolta IR 300 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1965 Avanti Avanti II 327/350 V8 counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When USA engineering meets Italy craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1965 Avanti Avanti II 327/350 V8 and 1962 Iso Rivolta IR 300 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1965 Avanti Avanti II 327/350 V8 producing 300 hp and the 1962 Iso Rivolta IR 300 delivering 300 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Avanti Avanti II uses a V8 OHV (Chevrolet 327/350) displacing 5,735 cc, while the Iso Rivolta relies on a V8 OHV with 5,359 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1962 Iso Rivolta IR 300 edges ahead at 7.5 seconds versus 8.0 seconds. The Iso Rivolta carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 502 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1962 Iso Rivolta IR 300 commands a significant premium over the 1965 Avanti Avanti II 327/350 V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.