Dagrada-Giannini 750 Sport
The Dagrada 750 Sport was built in 1949 by Angelo Dagrada. One of only three cars entirely made by Dagrada, it features a lightweight aluminum body and a Giannini-tuned 750cc engine.
The chassis was designed for agility, making it competitive in tight circuits and hill climbs. It was owned by Franco Bordoni-Bisleri, the famous Italian war fighter pilot and car racer. Bordoni drove it to multiple victories throughout the 1950s, including races in Modena, Teramo, and the Coppa Ascoli. It also competed in 2 Mille Miglia races.
Powering the Dagrada 750 Sport, the Giannini G1 inline-four engine was improved with a Siata cylinder head, delivering 55 horsepower. Combined with the body's lightness, the car achieves a remarkable power-to-weight ratio of 6.1818 Kg/HP, and a top speed of approximately 160 km/h.
The suspension setup features independent front suspension and a live rear axle. Drum brakes on all four wheels were the normal setup for the era, though they demanded careful management during long races. The 4-speed manual sequential transmission is easy to use and perfect for quick reaction during races.
The bodywork is lightweight and aerodynamic, in line with the philosophy that defined post-war Italian racing cars. Crafted in the streamlined "siluro" (torpedo) style, the car's aluminum body is not only visually striking but also purpose-built for performance. The aluminum thin panels contribute significantly to the car’s light weight of just 340 kg.
Upon close inspection, the handmade nature of the bodywork becomes clear. Small weld marks and the craftsmanship in the paneling reveal the artisanal skill of the Italian coachbuilder, each piece individually shaped and fitted. While beautifully preserved, the paintwork has a charming vintage patina.
750 Sport
Chassis n. 0243849
Paint color Red
Interiors Black
Participated in over 50 races - of which 15+ won
Complete ownership history
Impressive historical documentation
FIVA passport valid until 2035
Preserved and fully functioning
Recently overhauled by HCS
Extensive collection of spare parts
The Dagrada began its racing career in 1949, while still owned by Dagrada, with a class win at the Tre Ponti event. This early success caught the attention of Franco Bordoni-Bisleri, a decorated war pilot and passionate racer, who acquired the car in 1950. Bordoni, an already experienced competitor, raced with the Dagrada in numerous occasions, achieving significant victories. His skill helped cement the Dagrada’s reputation as a formidable competitor in the 750cc category.
In 1962, Bordoni sold the car to Italo Ascani, who preserved it for more than thirty years, ensuring its survival during a time when many similar race cars were lost or forgotten. In 1996, the Dagrada changed hands again, and later made its way to Belgium and later the Netherlands.
In 2013, the Dagrada was restored by the Dutch classic car specialists at Strada e Corsa, who prepared it for that year's Mille Miglia. During the event, it performed flawlessly, safely carrying its pilot and co-pilot from Brescia to Rome and back, showing the resilience and reliability of its design.
Alongside the vehicle is an extensive collection of former components used throughout its racing history. Additionally, the car has a detailed archive of documents, including race participation and provenance records. Its palmares is remarkable, showcasing numerous victories and notable performances that highlight its significance in motorsport history.