Vehicle Description
Chassis No. ZA9DU21BXWLA12027
Monterey Edition No. 20/20
In 1995, Lamborghini introduced the SV (Sport Veloce) variant as a
purist's counterpart to the all-wheel-drive VT model. While the VT
focused on enhanced handling through its advanced Viscous Traction
four-wheel-drive system, the lighter SV maintained the visceral
driving experience of channeling all its power to the rear wheels.
With its 5.7-liter mid-mounted V12 producing a raging 510
horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque-25 horsepower more than the VT
while weighing approximately 109 pounds less-a skilled, and brave,
driver could rocket from zero to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds before
reaching a maximum speed of 191 mph. To distinguish this
high-performance variant, Lamborghini fitted an adjustable rear
wing, redesigned engine cover with roof-mounted cooling scoops,
prominent "SV" decals, and larger front brakes to handle the
increased power output.
American enthusiasts would have to wait until 1998 to experience
this uncompromising rear-wheel-drive performance, when a new valve
timing management system allowed the SV's 5.7-liter V12 to be
homologated for U.S. emissions regulations. Now yielding 530
horsepower, the 1998 Diablo SV also brought Lucas ABS software with
larger-diameter 355-mm front and rear brakes, necessitating larger
18-inch wheels front and rear. In August of 1998, additional
improvements to the SV platform arrived on U.S. shores in the form
of the Monterey Edition, named for the famed Monterey Car Week in
Monterey, California, and limited to a mere 20 examples. This
U.S.-market-only special edition carried a trio of side intakes
ahead of the rear wheels-mirroring the Diablo SE30 and VT
Roadster-chromed OZ Racing wheels, a color-matched rear wing, and a
selection of bespoke paint colors and leather interiors.
This notable Monterey Edition-limitation no. 20 of 20-is the final
example built of its kind, produced in June 1998. The car's
Certificate of Vehicle Original Configuration issued by Lamborghini
Polo Storico notes that it was finished as it presents today in
striking Monterey Blue paintwork with contrasting silver SV
graphics, showcasing the dramatic specifications made possible
through Lamborghini's expanded color palette for the special
edition. The interior was trimmed with blue carpets and Glacier
leather upholstery, accented with vibrant yellow piping and
stitching, including headrests embroidered with the "SV Monterey
Edition" logo. The car was delivered on 3 August 1998 to Prestige
Imports in Miami Beach, Florida, with its clean CARFAX Vehicle
History Report indicating that the Lamborghini remained in the
Sunshine State for two decades; there, it received periodic
maintenance from Fields Motorcars Orlando. In 2019, the car joined
an Oregon-based collector for a number of years before its recent
acquisition by the consignor.
Today, the presentation of chassis 12027 speaks to the exceptional
care this car has received from its current caretaker, which
included a major engine-out service and cosmetic refurbishment
conducted by Wistar Motors of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, in July
2025. Totaling over $50,000 invested, the service addressed an
O-ring oil leak with fresh gaskets, cylinder head reconditioning,
new clutch assembly, pilot and release bearings, rear main seal,
and new NGK spark plugs. Additional mechanical work encompassed
rebuilding all four OZ racing wheels with correct hardware and
proper clearances, replacing damaged front brake ducting, and
rebuilding all four brake calipers while also returning them to
their correct black finish. Cosmetically, the Diablo had its
improper HID headlights exchanged for OEM-style LED lights and
wiring, the Glacier upholstery was reconditioned and its headrest
embroidery reupholstered, and the front fascia was renewed to
restore its lustrous Monterey Blue finish.
Offered with just 22,591 kilometers (approximately 14,037 miles)
shown at the time of cataloging, this is a spectacular opportunity
to acquire an investment-grade example of what many consider the
ultimate expression of the classic Diablo formula.
