Auction Dates: December 13-15, 2023 • Germany
Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of automotive history with the rare Diablo SV Roadster! This stunning 1998 Lamborghini, equipped with rear-wheel drive and a removable roof, is one of only two factory-built examples. Commissioned by Touring Auto of Milan, this matching-numbers masterpiece embodies true exclusivity and offers a unique opportunity to acquire a cherished piece of Lamborghini's legacy.
Rare Diablo SV Roadster Auction
- Exclusivity: Only two factory Diablo SV Roadsters exist, making this an extraordinary find.
- Performance: Features a manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, delivering the ultimate Lamborghini experience.
- Striking Design: Finished in vibrant Roadster Giallo with a Nero “Torpedo” Alcantara interior, adorned with exposed carbon fiber and a rear wing.
- Comprehensive Documentation: Includes a Lamborghini Polo Storico Certificate of Origin, original warranty book, owner’s manuals, service book, tool rolls, Alpine stereo, and factory sports exhaust.
This German-registered vehicle has EU taxes settled, making it eligible for legal import and registration in the United States. It stands as one of the rarest road-legal Diablos, solidifying its place among the most extraordinary Lamborghinis in history.
A Formula for Triumph
Introduced in 1990, the Diablo captured the essence of a transformative era for Lamborghini, completing its 11-year production run under Audi's stewardship. With fewer than 3,000 units produced, the Diablo became a cultural icon, and the revered SV Roadster is among its rarest iterations.
Launched during a pivotal phase for the brand, the 1998 SV Roadster was designed for the US market as a driver-focused, open-air variant. Combining the VT Roadster’s convertible feature with the thrilling rear-wheel drive of the SV coupe, it became one of the most captivating versions of the Diablo. By shedding the front differential, the model not only reduced weight but also lowered production costs, enhancing its appeal.
Under the hood, the SV Roadster is powered by a legendary 5.7-liter V-12, producing 530 horsepower and 605 Nm of torque. The 1998 model introduced an advanced electronic phase management system, improved braking with 355-millimeter discs, and reinforced calipers. An electronic suspension lifting system added practicality, making it easier to navigate obstacles.
Despite initial excitement, external challenges halted the project after only one prototype. However, Emanuele Conforti, a Lamborghini enthusiast, played a crucial role in reviving the model by securing a second production run, leading to the creation of this unique chassis WLA12960.
Factory records confirm its lineage, with the car leaving the Sant’Agata Bolognese production line on April 6, 1998, destined for Touring Auto S.r.l. in Milan. This exceptional vehicle features a signature design, with exclusive elements like a matte-finished exposed carbon fiber center console and distinctive SV badging.
After passing through the hands of three Lamborghini collectors in Germany, this rarity has been preserved in exceptional condition, with just 42,842 kilometers on the odometer and recently serviced with new tires.
The Diablo SV Roadster is more than just a car; it’s an automotive unicorn, rarer than celebrated models like the SE30 Jota or Diablo GT. With its exquisite specifications and unmatched presentation, this SV Roadster is a treasure for collectors seeking historical significance and unparalleled rarity.
