Few cars in automotive history can claim the legendary status of the Lamborghini Miura. Designed as a groundbreaking fusion of art and engineering, the Miura is widely regarded as the world’s first true supercar. Introduced in 1966, it redefined the concept of a high-performance vehicle, blending breathtaking design with innovative technology. The 1967 Lamborghini Miura P400, offered without reserve, presents a rare chance for collectors to acquire a remarkable example of this historic model.
This particular Miura, chassis number 3195, holds a special place in Lamborghini’s early production history. It is the 53rd Miura ever built and is one of the coveted “thin chassis” examples, constructed with a lighter 0.9-millimeter steel frame, as opposed to the 1-millimeter steel used in later models. These early Miuras are prized for their lightness and purity of design, making them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
A Masterpiece by Bertone
The Miura’s design was crafted by Marcello Gandini, a young prodigy at Carrozzeria Bertone, who infused the car with a striking balance of aggression and elegance. The vehicle’s sensuous curves, evocative of a bull ready to charge, were perfectly complemented by its distinctive design features such as the bullhorn-like doors and headlamps resembling feminine eyelashes. The Miura’s captivating exterior, originally finished in Giallo Miura with a Bleu Fintapelle interior, set it apart from any other car of its time.
Beyond its aesthetic brilliance, the Miura was also a marvel of engineering. Its transverse mid-mounted V-12 engine was a revolutionary concept, inspired by the compact design of the Austin Mini. This 3.9-liter, quad-cam V-12, paired with six Weber carburetors, produced a roaring 350 horsepower, propelling the Miura into an elite class of performance cars. With its lightweight aluminum body, independent suspension, and four-wheel disc brakes, the Miura set new standards for handling and speed, instantly cementing its status as an icon.
A Unique Restoration Opportunity
Chassis 3195 offers a rare and exciting opportunity for a discerning collector. Sold new in Italy via Carpanelli of Rome, its journey took it to Los Angeles by the late 1970s, where it eventually became non-operational. The car has been in the possession of Rudi Klein since June 1980, stored at Porsche Foreign Auto Wrecking. Now, after over four decades in seclusion, this Miura is ready to be brought back to life.
Notably, this particular Miura does not come with an engine or gearbox, offering its future owner the opportunity to restore it to its original P400 configuration or even explore the possibility of fitting a later, more advanced powertrain. The car’s factory-original Giallo over Bleu livery remains a stunning option for restoration, but its current condition allows for a bespoke build tailored to the next owner’s vision.
An Iconic Legacy
From the moment Lamborghini unveiled the Miura in 1966, it has remained a symbol of luxury, performance, and innovation. The Miura set a new benchmark for supercars and laid the foundation for future Lamborghini models, including the Countach and Aventador. Owning a Miura, especially one as unique as this early thin-chassis example, is an opportunity to become part of that rich legacy.
For collectors looking to embark on an extraordinary restoration journey, chassis 3195 is an open canvas with limitless potential. Whether restoring it to its factory-delivered specifications or customizing it to a unique vision, this Miura offers the rare chance to create a masterpiece from one of the most celebrated cars in history.
This 1967 Lamborghini Miura P400 by Bertone is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a legend—an unparalleled piece of automotive art and innovation.
Source: rmsothebys.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
