Classic Car Wiki

Introduction to Lamborghini

Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. is one of the most iconic and revered names in the world of high-performance automobiles. Founded in 1963 by Ferruccio Lamborghini, the company set out to build a better grand touring car than Ferrari. Over the decades, Lamborghini has become synonymous with radical styling, V12 engines, and unmatched Italian flair. From the Miura to the Aventador, the brand’s legacy is rich with innovation, drama, and automotive excellence.

Origins: Ferruccio Lamborghini

Ferruccio Lamborghini was a successful industrialist, manufacturing tractors from military surplus after World War II. A wealthy man and car enthusiast, he owned several luxury vehicles, including Ferraris. However, dissatisfied with the reliability and after-sales service of his Ferrari, he famously approached Enzo Ferrari with suggestions, which were dismissed. This inspired Ferruccio to create his own car company to rival Ferrari in both performance and refinement.

Founding of Automobili Lamborghini

In 1963, Lamborghini established his car factory in Sant’Agata Bolognese, Italy. He hired talented engineers such as Giotto Bizzarrini (who designed Ferrari’s V12 engines) and designers like Franco Scaglione and the team at Bertone. The company focused on producing elegant yet high-performance grand tourers rather than race-bred machines.

Early Success: 350 GT and 400 GT

350 GT (1964)

Lamborghini’s first production car, the 350 GT, was powered by a 3.5-liter V12 engine and featured a stylish, refined design. It was praised for its balance, smooth ride, and superb engineering. Around 120 units were produced.

400 GT (1966)

A development of the 350 GT, the 400 GT had a larger 4.0-liter engine and could seat four. With enhanced performance and luxury, it cemented Lamborghini’s position as a serious competitor in the grand touring segment.

The Game-Changer: Miura

In 1966, Lamborghini unveiled the Miura—a car that revolutionized the supercar world. It was one of the first road cars with a transverse mid-engine layout. Designed by Marcello Gandini at Bertone, the Miura was low, wide, and stunning. It boasted a 4.0-liter V12 engine and a top speed of 170 mph.

The Miura redefined what a performance car could be and established Lamborghini’s reputation for wild, futuristic designs. It became an icon of the 1960s and is often regarded as the world’s first true supercar.

Expansion and Innovation

Espada (1968) and Islero (1968)

Lamborghini expanded its range with the Espada, a four-seat GT, and the Islero, a more conservative grand tourer. These models catered to different audiences and demonstrated the brand’s versatility.

Jarama and Urraco

The early 1970s saw the introduction of the Jarama and the Urraco, the latter being a V8-powered mid-engine 2+2 designed to compete with the Porsche 911. These models broadened Lamborghini’s appeal but couldn’t match the excitement of the Miura.

The Countach Era

In 1974, Lamborghini introduced the Countach—a car that would become the symbol of the brand for the next two decades. With its scissor doors, wedge-shaped body, and massive V12 engine, the Countach redefined automotive design.

Designed by Marcello Gandini, it pushed every boundary and captured the imagination of enthusiasts and dreamers worldwide. The Countach underwent numerous updates over its production run and became a poster car for a generation.

Financial Troubles and Ownership Changes

Despite engineering success, Lamborghini suffered financially due to the oil crisis and global economic downturn. Ferruccio sold the company in 1974, and over the next two decades, Lamborghini changed ownership several times, including periods under Swiss, American, and Indonesian control.

Despite these issues, Lamborghini continued to build radical cars, including the Jalpa and the LM002—a high-performance off-road SUV powered by a V12.

Revival Under Audi

In 1998, Volkswagen Group, through its Audi division, purchased Lamborghini. This brought much-needed stability, resources, and engineering expertise to the brand.

Murciélago (2001–2010)

The Murciélago was the first new Lamborghini under Audi. It retained the V12 formula but introduced modern technology, all-wheel drive, and higher quality standards. Its design, performance, and reliability re-established Lamborghini as a supercar powerhouse.

Gallardo (2003–2013)

The Gallardo was Lamborghini’s first V10 model and its most successful at the time, with over 14,000 units sold. Smaller and more affordable than the Murciélago, it brought Lamborghini to a broader audience. It also laid the foundation for Lamborghini’s future models.

Modern Supercars

Aventador (2011–2022)

The Aventador succeeded the Murciélago as Lamborghini’s flagship V12 model. With a carbon-fiber monocoque, 6.5-liter V12 engine, and aggressive styling, it represented the peak of naturally aspirated supercars. Numerous variants, including the SVJ and Roadster, kept it relevant for over a decade.

Huracán (2014–present)

The Huracán replaced the Gallardo and quickly became a best-seller. With a 5.2-liter V10, advanced electronics, and sharp design, it offered high performance and everyday usability. Variants like the Performante and STO pushed the limits of track-focused performance.

Urus (2018–present)

Lamborghini entered the luxury SUV market with the Urus. With a twin-turbo V8 and design elements inspired by Lamborghini’s supercars, the Urus became a commercial hit and helped Lamborghini reach record sales.

Important Concept and Limited Models

Reventón (2007)

A limited-edition V12 supercar with fighter-jet-inspired styling. Only 20 units were built, showcasing extreme design.

Centenario (2016)

Built to honor Ferruccio Lamborghini’s 100th birthday, the Centenario was based on the Aventador and featured advanced aerodynamics and a 770 hp V12.

Sián FKP 37 (2019)

Lamborghini’s first hybrid supercar, combining a V12 engine with supercapacitor electric tech. It marked Lamborghini’s step into the electrified future.

Design Philosophy and Legacy

Lamborghini is renowned for bold, angular designs, powerful engines, and extravagant personality. Unlike its rival Ferrari, Lamborghini emphasizes drama, presence, and road performance over racing pedigree. The scissor doors, aggressive styling, and raw sound of a Lamborghini have become cultural symbols.

From dominating posters to starring in films and video games, Lamborghini is as much a lifestyle brand as a car manufacturer. Its history is filled with bold decisions, passionate leadership, and technological milestones.

Future of Lamborghini

Lamborghini is preparing to transition into the hybrid and electric era. The replacement for the Aventador—known as the Revuelto—introduces a plug-in hybrid V12 powertrain. Lamborghini has committed to electrifying its lineup while retaining the emotion and drama that define the brand.

With strong financial performance, innovative engineering, and a growing fan base, Lamborghini is well-positioned to continue its legacy of outrageous performance cars well into the future.