To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Abu Dhabi
event, 30 November 2019.
Estimate:
$200,000 - $250,000
- One of approximately 100 second-generation VT roadsters
built
- Rare second-generation development featuring anti-lock brakes
and uprated engine
- A beautifully presented and minimally used example of the
definitive open-top Diablo
Introduced in 1990 as the successor to the legendary Countach, the
Lamborghini Diablo was the company's signature 1990s model,
enjoying eleven years of production through fifteen different
iterations. The Diablo's arresting aluminium coachwork was penned
by the celebrated Marcelo Gandini and refined by parent company
Chrysler, which had acquired Lamborghini in 1987.
The Diablo continued to employ the Countach's groundbreaking
mid/rear engine layout, utilizing a development of the prior
model's aluminium V-12, which now displaced 5.7 litres and
developed 485 bhp. With a top speed of 205 mph, the Diablo joined a
very select group of supercars capable of top speeds over 200
mph.
In 1992 Lamborghini laid the groundwork for an open variant with a
one-off spider shown at the Geneva Salon. The idea temporarily
remained a design experiment as the company prioritized power-train
refinement, which most notably took shape with the appearance of
the Diablo VT in 1993. Standing for viscous traction, the VT
employed a version of the LM002 SUV's all-wheel-drive system to
provide superior traction and acceleration.
At the 1995 Geneva Salon, Lamborghini finally combined the two
ideas, introducing a production roadster built on the VT platform.
The Diablo VT roadster featured an electronically retractable soft
top, as well as a revised front bumper and headlamps and new,
larger wheels.
Following the company's acquisition by the VW Group three years
later, the Diablo underwent a mild restyling for the 1999 model
year, and power was increased to 530 bhp through the use of
variable valve timing, while anti-lock brakes were integrated for
the first time in a Lamborghini. Ultimately capable of reaching 208
mph, the second-generation 1999 Diablo VT roadster was built in a
modest quantity of approximately 100 examples, bringing total
roadster production to approximately 300 cars.
Finished in Arancio paint and upholstered with black leather with
orange stitching, this beautiful Diablo VT roadster presents
beautifully throughout. It was delivered new to Talal Bin Qais
Al-Zawawi of Oman in September of 1999. More recently, the car has
been fastidiously maintained by the consignor, a collector based in
Dubai. Several invoices from Lamborghini Dubai are on file, noting
a major service with the odometer showing 17,456 km in November of
2015. Further invoices show new tyres fitted in October 2017 and
the rear bumper being repainted in April 2019. The car is also
accompanied by its original manuals, including its original service
book.
This magnificent and rare second-generation roadster offers a
sensational complement to any supercar collection, ideal for
consummate Lamborghini enthusiasts worldwide.To view this car and
others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM
website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/ad19.