1967 Lamborghini 400 GT 2+2 Coupé
Chassis no. 1321

It is the stuff of legend that Ferrari-owning industrialist Ferruccio Lamborghini only turned to automobile manufacture as a result of receiving off-hand treatment at Maranello, vowing to build a better car. A successful manufacturer of tractors and related machinery, Lamborghini possessed the resources to realise his dream without having to compromise.

Lamborghini's first production car, the Touring-styled 350 GT, debuted at the 1963 Turin Motor Show with deliveries commencing in the spring of 1964. The work of two of Italy's most illustrious automobile designers, the 350 GT featured a glorious 3.5-litre, four-cam V12 designed by Giotto Bizzarrini, housed in a chassis penned by engineer Gianpaolo Dallara, formerly with Ferrari and Maserati. This state-of-the-art power unit produced 270bhp (DIN), which was good enough for a top speed in excess of 150mph.

The 350 GT's four camshafts and all-independent suspension meant that it upstaged the best that Ferrari offered at the time, but to compete with his Maranello rival's larger models Lamborghini needed a four-seater, and the 400 GT 2+2 duly appeared in 1966. A development of the 350 GT, the newcomer used an enlarged - to 3,929cc - V12. The claimed maximum power was 320bhp – some 50 horsepower more than its predecessor. The 400 GT 2+2 retained the overall, and highly acclaimed, looks of the 350 GT.

Despite its novice status as an automobile manufacturer, Lamborghini soon dispelled any lingering doubts about its ability to compete with the world's best Grand Tourers. Reviewing the 400 GT in its 2+2 form 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 manner of its long-legged performance was reckoned the finest quality of the Lamborghini, its V12 engine being judged to have the broadest range of smooth torque the testers had experienced. 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."

One of only 247 units supplied to a select band of customers between 1966 and 1968, this 400 GT 2+2 was purchased from The Gallery (Aaldering Classic & Sportscars Brummen) on 13th May 2008, since when it has been on static display, and will require recommissioning prior to road use. Accompanying documentation consists of copies of the 2008 purchase invoice and old Belgian registration papers.

Please note that if this vehicle remains within Monaco or France, the reduced rate of Import VAT at 5.5% will be applicable on the hammer price. All customs charges will be invoiced and collected directly by our customs agent, Benaim. Please note that if you purchase as an EU Company, the VAT amount will be calculated based on your registered country's rate and paid directly there. Import rates to other EU Countries may vary and an administration fee will be charged to prepare the necessary customs clearances. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.