1972 Lamborghini Jarama

The last of the front engined Lamborghini Coupe, created from the same schematic as the Espada, the Jarama GTS was known for its extra power and agility. Despite being the third heaviest Lamborghini, the first being the Espada and second, the LM002, the Jarama offered many options not usually seen in the Lamborghini family.

Built from 1970-1976, the original GT and upgraded GTS began their struggle for popularity debuting at the 1970 Geneva Salon. With only 250 built, the fate of the Jarama was a shorter shelf life than predicted.

Although the bodywork, designed by Marcello Gandini, never really made its way into the hearts of the Lamborghini enthusiast, options such as a removable roof panels managed to sell an additional 50 vehicles.

The interior of the Jarama began to take shape through the years, proving some changes were for the better. Leather upholstery added a touch of elegance and the wood trim was replaced with brushed aluminum for a sleeker look. The rear window was heated and side windows could be opened and closed electronically. Two parallel action wipers were featured on the front window as a replacement to the original type in which the wiper on the left sat above of the wiper on the right in the middle of the windshield.

Another incentive to sway Lamborghini lovers into the seats of the Jarama appeared in 1974 with the addition of the Chrysler TorqueFlite automatic transmission as an option. Even though the TorqueFlite transmission had a long success rate and was used well into 2000's on popular cars such as the Neon, it did not have an impact with the Jarama, only resulting in 10 ever being produced.

The strongest and most admired quality of the Jarama's was its power derived from the 4-liter, 350 horsepower, 12 cylinder GT or the 365 horsepower GTS engines. The heavy frame didn't hold back the engine from keeping the 0-60 time under 7 seconds and a top speed of 162 miles per hour. The engine, strategically placed in the front center, helped to keep a perfect balance when maneuvering.

The Lamborghini Jarama may have disappointed the few, but many car enthusiasts all over the world would take any chance given to feel its raw, relentless power.

Kyle McMullen