Touring’s take on the Torpedo Transformable

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A while ago, we wrote about a so-called “Torpedo Transformable” from Belgium—an impressive 40 hp Minerva coachbuilt by D’Ieteren Frères, featuring a distinctive dual-windshield setup for both driver and passengers. There was at least one similarly constructed example, as we discovered, although it was less prosaically named a “Dual Windshield Convertible Sedan” and supposedly bodied by Hibbard & Darrin. “Have you ever seen any others?” we asked. Well—we’ve just come across one ourselves. And it is no less mysterious.

This time, it’s an all-Italian affair: an Isotta-Fraschini Tipo 8B with bodywork by Carrozzeria Touring. Now described as a roadster, it evokes the style of the Minervas in a more modern fashion. The large Isotta-Fraschini is said to date from 1936. While Touring bodied several more I-Fs during the mid-1930s and built many other roadsters—you may recall the Flying Star—there does not appear to be another example in this style. What’s more, only this single photograph, from our friends at Coachbuild.com, is known.

The original poster added: “Another annotation on the back of the photograph is the word ‘Iran.’ Was it built for Reza Shah, then Shah of Iran and father of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, a well-known car enthusiast? Who can confirm?” Now that is something we would love to know as well. Surely more must be known about this most impressive car. Anyone?

Words: Jeroen Booij
Pictures: Phaeton@Coachbuild.com

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