117 was the codename for a common development program of Isuzu mid-size cars, involving a coupé, sedan, and station wagon.

The two ranges shared mechanicals, including the complete FR layout chassis with recirculating ball steering.

The 117 Coupé was styled by the famous Giorgetto Giugiaro, being one of the first Japanese cars designed by an Italian stylist.

It was quite an exclusive vehicle during its lifetime, and is a rare collectible now, but thanks to its unusually long lifecycle, Isuzu manufactured 86,192 units.

In December 1968, Isuzu started preliminary small-scale production of 117 Coupés, which were effectively handmade in amounts rarely exceeding 50 a month.

The first engine available was a 1.6 L DOHC inline-four, and in 1970, an electronic fuel injection unit from Bosch debuted, using the D-Jetronic system.