Vehicle Description
In accordance with their practice of naming their cars after Fighting Bulls, it was fitting that this new, junior, V8 Lamborghini was named "Urraco" which translates as "little bull".
Intended to compete with rivals such as Ferrari"s Dino 308 and Porsche"s 911 in an important market sector, the Urraco was announced in 1970 adopting the Miura"s basic mechanical layout. But in place of the former"s transversely mounted 4-litre V12 there was a 2.5-litre V8. Despite its simpler specification, the new V8 produced a highly respectable 220bhp at 7,500rpm. Styled by Bertone, the Urraco employed McPherson strut suspension all round and, despite a wheelbase 9cm shorter than the Miura"s, the car was roomy enough to accommodate a 2+2 cockpit. Benefitting from a lighter engine aswell as a smaller footprint Urracos were nimble, easy to drive and excellent road holders and with a top speed of 146mph they were not slow either. Most importantly, it was quicker and more powerful than a Dino GT4.
The Urraco was intended to sell in relatively large numbers, but soon after it reached production, the entire market was hit by the OPEC oil crisis. Thus only 520 examples of the P250 were made, which was bad news for Lamborghini, but good news for buyers today seeking a comparatively rare car with pedigree, performance and stunning looks.
The Urraco offered here, presented in red with champagne interior, is without doubt one of the best we have seen. Complete with DVLA history from new along with bills, invoices and MOT certificates, the odometer reading of 27,200 is believed to be true.
The car was laid up in 2006 for 9 years while the owner worked abroad. Lying untouched for 9 years, the car was then subject to a "52,000 restoration and rebuild by marque specialists Colin Clarke Engineering. Backed by an extensive file of paperwork and photos of the restoration, it is easy to see where the car gets its condition from. Aesthetically and mechanically in excellent condition, one would struggle to find better.
