Perhaps the best way to appreciate the story of Automobili Lamborghini
is to go back in time and follow its development. The history of these
cars demonstrates how his dream became a reality.
1963
The factory Automobili Lamborghini opens in Sant'Agata Bolognese. The
first Lamborghini prototype, called the 350 GTV debuts at the Turin
Motor Show in October.
1964
The 350 GT, a refinement of the original prototype, debuts at the Geneva
Motor Show as a statement of Lamborghini's intent to be a true player in
the sports car market. The vehicle features a four-cam V12 a fully
synchronised five speed transmission, limited slip differential, four
wheel independent suspension and four wheel disc brakes. An enthusiastic
public reaction prompts production to begin.
1966
Characterised by its 3.9 Litre engine, the 400 GT is produced as a
derivative of the 350 GT. Simultaneously Lamborghini begins building its
own transmissions and final-drive unit and combines this feature with
the 3.9 Litre engine, revised bodywork and +2 seating to produce the 400
GT 2+2 model.
A production prototype designed by Marcello Gandini, the Miura P400,
featuring a cleverly compact 3929 cc transverse V12 power train makes
its second debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The car causes a stir, as its
bare chassis had in Turin during the previous autumn and further
establishes the reputation of Lamborghini.
1968
Launched at the Geneva Motor Show the Islero 400 GT features an
aluminium, quad cam V12 engine; all wheel independent suspension and
disc brakes; comprehensive cockpit fittings and luxury interiors.
Described as a businessman's car, the Islero, although shorter, is
roomier than the 400 GT 2+2, and has plenty of glass area.
Described as a truly sexy new four seater, the Espada combines looks,
performance and handling of a top-line sports car with comfortable and
luxurious accommodation for four. Built of solid steel "unibody"
construction, the Espada became one of the most admired and successful
Lamborghinis.
1969
Criticism of the Islero 400 GT design inspired an improved model in the
late summer of 1969, tagged Islero S or GTS. Modifications included a
reworked interior, several suspension improvements and a much more
potent engine. "Mailbox slot" hot air exhaust vents behind each front
wheel, a slight flare to all wheel arches and fixed triangular panes on
the front portion of each door window were all additional features on
the GTS model.
1970
The Miura P400S, an upgraded version of the P400, features heavier gauge
sheet steel chassis construction, rear suspension modifications,
ventilated disc brakes, and reshaped combustion chambers, higher lift
cams and bigger carburettors, all contributing to a stronger engine.
Additional features include leather-trim steering wheel, and options for
radio and air conditioning.
The functional successor to the 400 2+2, the Jarama 400 GT, is built on
an all new "unibody" floor plan derived from the Espada. Its V12 engine
is placed between the front wheels and the bodywork is made of steel.
The car proved to be surprisingly nimble and fast. Sensible and
deliberately unspectacular, the Jarama is described as more bold than
beautiful.
1971
A second revision to the original Miura P400 prototype of 1966, the P400
SV features a completely redesigned front and rear suspension, with
updated tyres and rims that dictate bulging rear fenders. The new
improved model offers more muscle and features a leather interior trim
replacing the vinyl.
Marcello Gandini, assisted by Paolo Stanzani's engineering expertise,
designed all new competition inspired sports car prototype, the Countach
LP500, which debuted at the Geneva Motor Show. The car featured high
speed dynamics, high cornering limits, a handmade aluminium body and a
dramatic "wedge" body profile.
1972
Having the body design executed by Bertone in an attempt to produce a
"special" look, Lamborghini unveiled the Urraco P250 at the Turin Motor
Show. It was described as having a genuine beauty and a rare blend of
balance, delicacy, grace, innovation and passion that seemed ageless.
The revised Jarama IS referred to as the Jarama 400GTS. The car is
distinguished by its hood scoop, side fender vents, parallel parking
wipers and five bolt wheels. It had more horsepower and there were
significant interior improvements, including better seating,
instrumentation and workmanship. It was the last front engined
Lamborghini sports car.
The first Countach LP400 prototype appeared at the Geneva Motor Show.
1973
The second Countach LP400 prototype was shown at the Paris Motor Show.
1974
The Countach LP400 production vehicle debuted at the Geneva Motor Show.
The second Gandini design for Lamborghini, it stole the show and gave
the company a new light. The car featured a 3.9 Litre V12 engine,
tubular chassis, semi roll down side windows and bolder higher bumpers.
1975
A replacement for the P250, the Urraco 300 was introduced and featured
many improvements and detailed changes to transmission, suspension and
bodywork
1976
The Silhouette, a new vehicle based on the Urraco, is introduced at the
Geneva Motor Show. It received favourable reviews due to its aggressive
good looks, stunning performance and a practical day-to-day driving
ability.
1977
In an attempt to build a series of fast off-road vehicles for the
Mobility Technology International Company, Lamborghini produced the
Cheetah, an entry into the military market. Receiving less interest from
the army than the public, the vehicle is adapted for the civilian
market.
1978
Created largely due to interest expressed by the Lamborghini fan Walter
Wolf, the Countach LP400S uses much wider low profile, high tech tyres
requiring alterations in the suspension geometry of the car and
fibreglass fender flares.
1981
As a follow up to the Cheetah, the LM001 went into production and was
available with a rear mounted 4.7 Litre Countach V12 or a Chrysler 360
cc V8.