Lot 259

Monterey 2011

1969 Lamborghini Islero S 2+2 Coupe

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$134,750 USD | Sold

United States | Monterey, California

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Chassis No.
6662

340 bhp, 3,929 cc V-12 engine, six Weber twin-choke carburetors, five-speed manual gearbox, four-wheel independent suspension with unequal-length A-arms, coil springs and anti-roll bars, and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes. Wheelbase: 100.4"

- One of 100 Islero S Coupes produced

- A desirable, higher horsepower “S” variant

- The ultimate development of the original Lamborghini model

- Only 8,900 miles, freshly rebuilt engine, nicely presented

The 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 in the Lamborghini stable. As was Lamborghini tradition, the new car’s name was related to bullfighting, and in this case, it was named after the bull that beat the 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 wider Campagnolo wheels. Its luxurious passenger accommodations included full leather upholstery and standard air conditioning, plus power-assisted windows and steering. Powered by the famous Lamborghini V-12 engine mated to a five-speed gearbox, the car delivered performance far exceeding most other cars of its era and class. With six Weber twin-choke carburetors feeding its up-rated 340 bhp V-12, the rare “S” variant (100 built) offered a top speed approaching 160 mph with acceleration, handling and braking to match.

The Islero’s clean styling echoed the Touring-designed 350/400 GT models, and it is widely believed that Ferruccio Lamborghini greatly influenced the car’s styling; in fact, he considered the car one of his favorites. Production ran from 1968 through 1970, but with only 225 examples built, of which 100 were “S” models, including the car offered here, they continue to be very rare and sought-after today.

This 1969 Islero is handsomely finished in grey over red, has travelled just 8,900 miles and benefits from 37 years of single ownership. A rare and very desirable "S" version, it is equipped with air conditioning and recently received an engine rebuild that included the fitment of a new set of piston rings. Offered in very presentable condition throughout, this is an excellent example of a particularly rare and desirable Lamborghini.