1969 Lamborghini Islero
Coachwork by Carrozzeria Marazzi
Chassis no. 6198
320bhp, 3,929 cc V12 engine, six Weber carburetors, five-speed manual transmission, four-wheel independent suspension with unequal-length A-arms, coil springs and anti-roll bars, and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes. Wheelbase: 100.4"
The Lamborghini Islero was the ultimate evolution of the first Lamborghini model, the 350 GT, which evolved into the 400 GT and 400 GT 2+2 models. Since Lamborghini’s regular coachbuilder, Carrozzeria Touring, was bankrupt, Ferruccio Lamborghini commissioned Mario Marazzi to design and build a new model, to keep a fast and luxurious 2 + 2 GT car in the Lamborghini product line. As with all Lamborghini models following the first series, the new car was named after a famous fighting bull named “Islero”, who killed the famous matador Manuel Rodriquez in 1947.
The Islero retained the square tube chassis, wheelbase, and inner structure of the 400 GT 2+2, with a wider track to accommodate a set of Campagnolo wheels. Inside, the Islero was fully equipped with luxurious amenities, including a full leather interior and standard air conditioning, as well as power-assisted windows and steering. While somewhat overshadowed by the mid-engine Miura, the Islero was also powered by the famous Lamborghini V12 engine mated to a state-of-the art five-speed transmission, and in fact possessed high performance capabilities that far exceeded most other cars of the era. With six Weber dual-choke carburetors feeding its hungry 320 horsepower V12 engine, the Islero had a claimed top speed of 150-plus miles per hour, with acceleration, handling, and braking characteristics to match.
Aesthetically, the very clean shape of the Islero continued to echo the Touring-designed 350/400 GT models, and was much more subtle in execution than the Bertone-designed Espada. It is widely believed that Ferruccio Lamborghini himself had a great deal of influence on the car’s styling, and as a result, the Islero was one of his favorites. The Islero’s total production of just 225 examples spanned from 1968 to 1970, making the cars very scarce and sought-after by their well-heeled buyers. As then, the Islero is highly regarded today by Lamborghini enthusiasts as a lightweight, fast, and well-equipped touring car, with distinctive styling that remains very attractive.
This particular car is well known among Lamborghini enthusiasts, having been showcased in several publications, including the Consumer’s Guide hardbound, large-format book entitled “Lamborghini”. Having been coveted by a close-knit group of fellow cognoscenti, this Islero has been well maintained, benefits from a recent tune, and is now ready for continued touring enjoyment by its next owner.
