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IsottaFraschini-S

SPECIFICATION
Engine:
Four cylinders in line; 130 x 200 mm, 10,620 cc; ohv; max power approx 120 bhp at 1800 rpm

Transmission:
Four speed manual gearbox.

Suspension:
Front and rear, non-independent semi-elliptic springs.

Brakes:
Drums

Dimensions:
Wheelbase: 125 in (317 cm); overall width; 68 in (173 cm)

Max speed:
Approx 81 mph (130kmh) see text.
Isotta Fraschini Km 1911/14

Founded by Cesare Isotta and the three Fraschini brothers, Isotta Fraschini was one of the founder companies of the Italian car industry, selling then assembling French cars before becoming a manufacturer. Giustine Cattaneo joined the company in 1905, and there was to be links with the Maserati brothers and Bugatti. There was a commitment to racing, with such cars as the Tipo J (names Briarcliff for a 1908 American success). These led to a line of powerful speedsters - forerunners of sports cars - including the outstanding KM first seen in Paris in 1910.

Four wheel brakes

It was a large car with a specification that was staid in some respects, for example in a 10.6 litre long stroke engine that had it's cylinders cast in two pairs and a chain final drive. In one respect it was advanced: it had brakes on all four wheels. The system was designed by Oreste Fraschini, and front and rear brakes were operated separately.


Power and speed

The engine was variously rated at 100/120 bhp (by the factory) or 140 bhp (by it's New York office); respective claims for top speed were just over 80 mph/129 kmh or a less credible 100 mph/161 kmh. Whatever the speed the KM had a reputation for being difficult to handle.

The Tipo KM was a substantial and handsome car, with this vee nose or the alternative flat and rounded styles sometimes seen.

Photo Autopresse
MCMXCI, Edito-Service S.A. D1 078 03-10

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