This Isuzu Impulse is an attention-grabbing example of the stylish Giorgetto Giugiaro-penned 1980s Japanese sports coupe, which benefits from previous mechanical restorative maintenance. Understood to be one of just two prototype examples which were imported into Australia to be displayed at the Sydney and Melbourne motor shows in 1982 and 1983, and boasting a few tasteful upgrades, it would make a notable addition to any assembly of lesser-seen modern classics, and a charismatic companion for retro daily driving, weekend jaunts, and visits to car shows alike.

The exterior had a colour change over 10 years ago and presents in excellent condition, no dents, rust or ripples. The rare JDM spec Irmscher sports body kit was also installed.

The interior is JDM spec in good original condition. Front seats and door cards have been upgraded to the turbo model items. Decked out with Fusion Powerplant audio gear, the upholstery was also shared with the Series 2 VL Calais at the time. All controls work, including air conditioning.

The drivelines undergone a complete brake, steering, suspension restoration and front turbo brakes. Engine is matching numbers. Gearbox shifts and cruises nicely. With a hot motor, whether a built turbo, V8 or rotary, this car will be a real beast and show stopper.

KEY FACTS

• This Isuzu Impulse is an attention-grabbing example of the stylish and lesser-seen 1980s Japanese sports coupe, which benefits from previous mechanical restorative maintenance.
• Under the bonnet sits a naturally aspirated 1.9-litre inline-four, delivering around 88kW to the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission.
• This example has been with the seller and fourth owner for one year.
• This Impulse is believed to be one of just two prototype examples that were imported into Australia to be displayed at the Sydney and Melbourne motor shows in 1982 and 1983.
• This example is also understood to have featured on the main stage at the Street Elite showcase.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• The Isuzu Impulse (or Piazza in the Japanese domestic market) was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, and was unveiled at the 1979 Tokyo Motor Show where it received rave reviews.
• Following this enthusiastic reaction, Isuzu fast-tracked the Piazza into production within 48 hours of its unveiling. The model was first manufactured in 1981 and had changed very little from Giugiaro’s original concept.
• This example is finished in an eye-catching shade of yellow with red pinstripes, over a grey velour and cloth-trimmed interior, featuring striped cloth rear seat and quarter panel inserts.
• It rides on a set of 14-inch ‘Waffle’ alloy wheels, shod in Federal Super Street tyres.
• The factory specification includes a rare JDM-specification Irmscher sports body kit, electrically operated headlight ‘eyebrows’, a heated rear screen, automatic air conditioning, electrically adjustable door mirrors, and electric windows.
• This example now features a Fusion Powerplant speaker system with a boot-mounted subwoofer and amplifier, as well as an Autotechnica steering wheel.
• The car comes with the owner’s manual, and some spare parts.