Donald Trump’s Custom Lamborghini Diablo VT Roadster Fetches $1.1 Million at Auction
In a high-profile auction held by Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale, a unique 1997 Lamborghini Diablo VT Roadster previously owned by former U.S. President Donald Trump went under the hammer for an astounding $1.1 million. This significant sale demonstrates the potent combination of celebrity provenance and the rarity of the vehicle in question.
A Presidential Ride
Although Donald Trump, like every U.S. president since the 1960s, is prohibited from driving on public roads due to security protocols, he once owned an array of luxurious cars prior to his presidency. One striking example from his collection, the Lamborghini Diablo VT Roadster, recently captivated collectors and enthusiasts when it sold for a jaw-dropping sum.
Custom Profile and Specifications
This 1997 Lamborghini Diablo VT Roadster was purchased new and customized by Trump himself. It features a bespoke finish in Blue Le Mans—a color unavailable to the general public in that year—alongside a two-tone off-white and black interior. The supercar is equipped with a gated five-speed manual transmission and draws power from a 5.7-liter V12 engine. This powerhouse is tuned to deliver an impressive 492 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, enabling the Diablo to achieve a top speed of 202 mph.
Documentation and Modifications
Interestingly, although Trump parted with the car in 2002, a "TRUMP 2016" sticker adorning the rear window was evidently added more than a decade post-sale. Nonetheless, the authenticity of Trump’s initial ownership is confirmed by a small plaque inside the driver’s door, inscribed with "DONALD TRUMP DIABLO 1997." The car has since had two owners before being acquired by its latest, third owner through the auction.
The Auction Frenzy
Despite a mileage discrepancy noted in 2003 that did not deter bidders, the Diablo’s odometer reads approximately 24,900 kilometers (around 15,500 miles). Bidding kicked off at a brisk pace, rapidly hitting the $500,000 mark within 30 seconds. The winning bid of $1.1 million far exceeded typical prices for similar models. For reference, a 1999 VT Roadster with approximately 18,800 miles fetched $456,000 at an RM Sotheby’s auction in 2023, while a 1998 model with just over 3,000 miles sold for $467,500 the previous year.
Celebrity Impact and Preservation
The combination of the Lamborghini’s unique configuration and Trump’s celebrity ownership played a crucial role in pushing the final bid beyond the seven-figure threshold. The vehicle’s well-preserved condition, complete with its owner’s manual and two tool kits, further added to its appeal, ensuring it remained free of questionable modifications.
Conclusion
The extraordinary price fetched by this Lamborghini Diablo VT Roadster highlights the compelling intersection of rarity, customization, and celebrity ownership in the classic car market. This Diablo is a testament to the powerful allure of iconic automobiles with historic ties, making it a prized possession for collectors.
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Lawrence Jacobs, Editor of Automotive.fyi
