3,939cc DOHC V12 Engine
6 Weber Carburetors
320bhp at 6,500rpm
5-Speed Manual Transaxle
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Hydraulic Disc Brakes

*Delivered new to Verona Italy
*One of only 125 Isleros built
*Excellent entry for the Copperstate 1000 or Tour Auto
*Vehicular embodiment of La dolce vita

THE LAMBROGHINI ISLERO

Launched at the Geneva Salon in 1968, the Islero was a development of the 400GT 2+2, which was itself derived from Ferruccio Lamborghini's first production car, the Touring-styled 350GT of 1964. The Islero's square-tube chassis was based on that of its predecessors, though with wider track to accommodate fatter rubber, while its elegantly understated coachwork was styled by ex-Touring personnel led by Mario Marazzi. The model was named after the legendary bull that killed Spain's best matador, 'Manolete'.

Housed beneath an impressively low-slung bonnet, Lamborghini's 4.0-liter V12 engine was carried over from the 400GT and produced 320bhp initially, 350bhp in later Islero S form. The latter appeared in 1969 and could be distinguished by its flared wheelarches, vented front wings and a revised interior with more supportive seats and improved instruments and switch gear. Improvements were also made to the suspension and brakes.

Car magazine's test Islero achieved a true 157mph back in 1969, proving to be as quiet and stable at its maximum as at 130. It was also startlingly quick off the mark, hitting 60mph in 5.9 seconds and hurtling to 100mph in 13.7, outstanding figures even today. Despite an impeccable pedigree, the Islero, 225 of which were manufactured between 1968 and 1969, is today the most overlooked of Lamborghini's early front-engined cars.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

Originally finished in Bronzo Scuro metallizzato over Senape leather, the s/n 6231was delivered new to Ferretti in Verona, Italy on September 23, 1968. The perfect machine with which to motor through the mountains of Northern Italy, the early history of the car is not documented.

Eventually the Islero would make its way to the United States and spend some time in Florida. Restored to in the 1990s and finished in the innovative and original color scheme of red over tan, it was described in December 2002 as having 69,000 kilometers and in magnificent condition. Later moving across the country to join the collection of Luke Richards in San Diego, California, the Lambo would eventually return back to Europe, ultimately ending up in the Netherlands. At some point, it was repainted the beautiful medium blue it wears today.

Acquired by the current owner in May of 2008, the car has been on static display since acquisition. Given its 14 years of disuse, mechanical recommissioning is recommended prior to taking it out on the road for a rip. A fabulous machine with which to do any number of touring events or local drives, once sorted it will undoubtably bring joy to its new owner.

Rarely seen but highly coveted, an Islero like this one is an opportunity not to be missed!