1966 Lamborghini 350GT Coupe

Lamborghini's prototype 350 GTV was introduced at the 1963 Geneva Auto Show. It had four-wheel independent suspension and a four-cam V-12 engine derived from Giotto Bizzarrini's extensive racing experience. Other individuals responsible included Gian Paolo Dallara, test/development driver Bob Wallace, the racing development shop of Neri & Bonacini in Modena, and the designer of the famous Bertone BATs, Franco Scaglione. After further development, including the refinement of Scaglione's styling by Touring, the production 350GT was introduced at Geneva in 1964.

Early 350 GTs (around nine in total) were given a third seat in the rear to give 2+1 seating. An upholstered package tray later replaced this design. Retractable headlamps were replaced by more powerful, exposed oval Cibie lamps. Other exterior changes included more window glass, and softening of all the sharp edges especially in the tail section.

Initially, sales of the 350 GT were slow, with only 13 early production models built in 1964. Before long, produciton had increased to 25 cars per month. The following year, Lamborghini introduced mid-engined Miura as a rolling chassis at the 1965 Turin Auto Show.

Each of the Lamborghini 350 GT models were hand-made. Special-order modifications were common. The grille was often revised, or a second windshield wiper, backup light, and cowl air intakes were added. The leather dash was eventually replaced with a polished aluminum dash.

This vehicle, chassis number 0253, was delivered on August 28th of 1965 to the United States. The original owner was Jack Kellam. At the time, the car was finished in red with a black interior. In 1989, the car was purchased by Andy Chan who put the car into storage for about two decades, while he lived abroad in Hong Kong.

The current owner is the fourth caretaker, and acquired the car in 2011. The car has just received a fresh two-year restoration. The car is currently finished in black with soft tan leather wraps.

In 2012, this car was offered for sale at RM Auction's Monterey, CA sale. It was estimated to sell for $350,000 - $450,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $365,625, inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2012