FYI: Lamborghini’s ultra-rare Diablo SV Roadster is making waves at RM Sotheby’s upcoming sealed auction from December 13 to 15.
The Rarity That Defines an Era
The Diablo SV Roadster is arguably one of Lamborghini’s most exclusive and coveted models. With only two ever made, this hyper-rare supercar symbolizes a transformative period for Lamborghini, one that enthusiasts remember with a touch of nostalgia. Initially introduced by Chrysler in 1990, the Diablo’s production continued until 2001 under Audi’s ownership. Over those 11 years, around 2,500 units rolled out, a stark contrast to the skyrocketing sales Lamborghini enjoys today—selling more than double that number in just the first half of this year.
The Birth of the Diablo SV Roadster
Fast forward to 1995 when Lamborghini, having just switched hands from Chrysler, unleashed the Diablo VT Roadster—a more simplified, rear-wheel-drive counterpart to the existing all-wheel-drive Diablo VT. The SV version incorporated a more powerful 5.7-liter V12 engine. In a bid to capture the American market, Lamborghini’s owners in Malaysia and Indonesia backed the development of an SV Roadster, a sleeker, more agile version.
The Elusive SV Roadster
In 1998, Lamborghini showcased a pearl orange SV Roadster at the Geneva Motor Show, catching the eye of U.S. dealers. Unfortunately, that same year, Lamborghini was sold to Audi, who then canceled all rear-wheel-drive projects. However, a Milanese Lamborghini dealer persuaded the company to produce one more model. The result? Lamborghini engineers stripped some Diablo VT Roadsters of their AWD systems to create units resembling an SV Roadster.
Ultimately, only two officially recognized SV Roadsters emerged, making them unparalleled unicorns in the Lamborghini lineage.
The Auction Highlight: Features and Specifications
This specific Diablo SV Roadster has belonged to four European collectors and has logged 42,842 kilometers (26,621 miles). Here are some key specs and features:
- Engine: 5.7-liter V12
- Power: 530 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque
- Transmission: Manual
- Exterior: Giallo (Yellow) with exposed carbon fiber elements
- Interior: Nero "Torpedo" Alcantara with yellow piping
Additional premium features include an exposed carbon fiber roof, a sport exhaust system, a front suspension lift, and an optional rear wing. The car also retains its original Alpine stereo, owner’s manual, warranty, and service book—with the most recent maintenance performed in July 2023. It even comes with two tool rolls and nearly new tires, all documented.
Market Expectations
The value of this rare gem isn’t something easily pinned down. Looking at recent sales data, 1998 VT Roadster and SV Coupe models have attracted bids ranging from $250,000 to $470,000 over the past 18 months. However, the extraordinary rarity of the Diablo SV Roadster makes it a likely candidate for fetching a substantially higher price.
Conclusion
The Lamborghini Diablo SV Roadster represents a slice of automotive history, blending exclusivity, power, and a touch of nostalgic charm. For collectors and enthusiasts, this upcoming auction presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
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Lawrence Jacobs, Editor of Automotive.fyi
