Lamborghini 400 GT 2+2 Coupé, 1968
Lamborghini 350/400 GT
Lamborghini 350/400 GT•
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Chassis No.: 01321
Engine No.: 23987
Body No.: 23987
Estimate: US$350,000 - US$400,000 USD
- 3,939cc DOHC V12 Engine
- 6 Weber DCOE Carburetors
- 320bhp at 6,500rpm
- 5-Speed Manual Gearbox
- 4-Wheel Independent Suspension
- 4-Wheel Disc Brakes
- One of only 247 400 GTs produced
- Original US-delivery example
- Ideal for high-speed rallies and tours
The Touring-styled 350 GT debuted at the 1963 Turin Motor Show with deliveries commencing the following spring. Lamborghini hired two of Italy's most celebrated designers, with Giotto Bizzarrini creating the glorious 3.5-litre, four-cam V12 and Gianpaolo Dallara responsible for the chassis. This state-of-the-art power unit produced 270bhp and could push the 350 GT to 150mph. With four overhead camshafts and all-independent suspension, the 350 GT upstaged Ferrari on debut, no doubt ruffling feathers in Maranello.
Aiming at Ferrari's profitable four-seat models, Lamborghini added the four-seater 400 GT 2+2 in 1966. A development of the 350 GT, the new car used an enlarged 3,929cc V12 producing 320bhp, and a robust new Lamborghini-made 5-speed gearbox. The 400 GT 2+2 retained the striking overall looks of the 350 GT, but with revised floors and roofline.
Lamborghini quickly dispelled any lingering doubts about its ability to compete with the world's best Grand Tourers. Reviewing the 400 GT in 1967, Autocar magazine voted it "better than all the equivalent exotic and home-bred machinery in this glamorous corner of the fast-car market." The relaxed, long-legged performance was reckoned the 400 GT's finest attribute, and its V12 engine judged as one of the finest in its class. Autocar concluded: "To achieve this level of performance without noise, fuss, temperament or drama is an achievement; in the time taken for development, it is nothing short of sensational."
THE CAR OFFERED
One of only 247 units supplied to a select band of customers between 1966 and 1968, this 400 GT 2+2 is a lovely example, presented in a handsome shade of Azzurro Fiat over natural tan hides. Published registry records show that it was delivered to the USA on January 22, 1968, to Bob Estes, finished in Blu Notte over Tobacco interior. While little of the car's early history is known, it was previously owned by the respected Brummen, Netherlands-based dealers The Gallery Aaldering. A previous owner acquired the car directly from them in May of 2008, and kept it on static display until the spring of 2022.
Along the way, this 400 GT was restored and refinished in the appealing shade of light metallic Azzurro Fiat and retrimmed in natural tan hides. The well-detailed restoration has aged gracefully, and the car displays an appealing character that invites regular enjoyment. In current ownership, it has received mechanical attention to recommission it for road use, and the consignor reports it to be running and driving well.
For those "in the know" the 400 GT 2+2 is one of the finest Italian GTs of the 1960s, with a sophistication and refinement that is unprecedented for such a young manufacturer. Powerful, comfortable, and with sublime styling by Carrozzeria Touring, the 400 GT 2+2 is a cornerstone in Lamborghini's illustrious history.
