Lamborghini Jalpa, 1986
Lamborghini Jalpa
Lamborghini Jalpa•
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Chassis No.: ZA9J00000GLA12298
Unveiled at the 1981 Geneva Salon but not put on sale until the following year, the Lamborghini Jalpa was conceived as a rival to the likes of the Ferrari 308/328GTS and Porsche 911. Based on an updated version of its Silhouette predecessor's sheet-steel monocoque bodyshell, the newcomer boasted a reinforced subframe, all-round independent coil-over wishbone suspension, ventilated four-wheel disc brakes and 16” alloy wheels. A handsome targa-roofed two-seater design with a deep front spoiler, prominent wheelarch extensions and distinctive rear three-quarter engine vents, its styling was the work of Bertone.
Named in the best Lamborghini tradition after a particularly fierce breed of bull, the Jalpa employed a bespoke powerplant. Reworked by legendary chief engineer Giulio Alfieri and designated the L353, the 90-degree DOHC V8 utilised an aluminium block and cylinder heads. Fed by four twin-choke Weber 42 DCNF carburettors, the 'over-square' (86mm bore x 75mm stroke) 3485cc unit was credited with developing some 255bhp and 232lbft of torque. Transversely mid-mounted and allied to five-speed manual transmission, it reputedly enabled the Jalpa to sprint from 0-60mph in 6.2 seconds and onto 150mph.
Revamped in 1984, the `baby' Lambo gained body colour-coded engine and roof sections, while options included telephone dial wheels and a Countach-style rear wing.
This Jalpa was purchased from us in 2020 in barn find condition and has been transformed in a caterpillar to butterfly like style to the stunning example on offer here. The car was originally sourced from Japan and was imported in 2017. At that time we are informed that although the engine ran satisfactorily it was removed by Auto Cavallo for an overhaul. The rest of the work was put on hold and the vehicle dry stored until being purchased by our specialist vendor. This rare Lamborghini now presents wonderfully in yellow coachwork which is complemented by a fully retrimmed interior in stylish grey leather with yellow detailing.
This striking example is supplied with a NOVA certificate and import papers, the invoice for the engine commissioning and pre-restoration preparation coupled to the £70,000 invoice for purchase from Cars Australia & New Zealand. This is a fabulous example of an extremely rare Italian baby supercar. Consigned by Dominic Lake.
