1997 LAMBORGHINI DIABLO SV

This Lamborghini Diablo SV is a striking example of a 1990s performance icon, finished in an exceptionally rare factory colour, and presented in superb condition. Under the engine cover is a 5.7-litre naturally aspirated V12, producing 510bhp, driving the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. UK-market Lamborghinis of the period all had odometers that recorded in kilometres, and in this car it shows 52,821 km (32,821 miles) from new.

Following the four-wheel drive Diablo VT, the SV or 'Super Veloce' was a return to a more dynamically pure machine, reverting to a rear-wheel drive setup and with a more powerful engine tune. It could sprint from 0-60mph in 4.5 seconds, and go on to a top speed of 202mph. Its engine lid was capped by the same scoops as the SE30 Jota model, and larger front brakes.

This particular Diablo SV was specified from the factory in Verde Olimpus - a very rare colour, which also lends the car a rather sophisticated appearance. First registered in August 1997, it is noted that the first owner was a Mr Howard Furr-Barton.

As this gentleman was racing a Diablo SVR at the time, he managed to specify a genuine carbon-fibre SVR rear wing for his road car - and it would prove to be the only UK car with this feature. Furthermore, Furr-Barton also specified full leather seats in place of the standard Alcantara. It was acquired by the current owner in November 2018.

Today, it’s bodywork is presented in great condition, fabricated in a blend of aluminium, carbon-fibre, and reinforced composite materials. Its Olympus Green hue is believed to be the original factory paint, and still has a deep lustre around the panels. Minor imperfections are shown in the photo gallery, including some small marks in the paint around the front bumper. There is also some minor delamination on two corners of the windscreen. Overall though, this Diablo SV is in superb order.

The car rides on OZ Racing split-rim alloy wheels, which are in great shape, running a 17-inch diameter at the front and 18-inch at the rear. Its carbon-fibre SVR rear wing is detachable and in very good condition, and is shown mounted to the car in the images at the end of the gallery.

The cabin trim also appears to be entirely original, with black leather for the two seats, which is piped in green along the bolsters. There is some wear and creasing on the driver’s seat base and along the bolsters, but no rips or damage to the stitching or piping. The headlining and dashboard are also trimmed in black leather, while the transmission tunnel, centre console and door cards are finished in black Alcantara, with the same green stitching accents.

Factory-fitted equipment includes electric windows and door mirrors, power steering with wheel adjustment, and climate control. An Alpine radio and CD player is also installed. There are no electrical faults, and all of the switchgear works as it should.

The last scheduled maintenance was in May 2019 at 52,821km, when the car received a major service at Barr-Tech Specialist Cars. Minor oil leaks were rectified, and suspension bushes were also renewed, with new inner Framblocs on the front and rear wishbones.

Prior to this, its most recent services were in July 2015 at Colin Clark Engineering, when the complete clutch and flywheel assembly was also replaced, and in October 2013 at Lamborghini Pangbourne. The catalytic converters have previously been removed, so the engine management light stays on, but this is not an indicator of any engine issue. During the seller’s ownership, the OEM exhaust muffler has been refitted.

The most recent MOT test was on 8 June 2020 at 52,821km, which resulted in a first-time pass with no advisories whatsoever. In fact, the MOT history is near faultless, indicating a very well cared-for car.

The wheels are shod in Michelin Pilot Sport tyres in size 235/40 ZR17 at the front and 335/30 ZR18 at the rear. The rear tyres are showing signs of age, but there is a good level of tread on all four corners. Accompanying this car are two service books, the owner’s manual, and an original set of tools.

This Lamborghini Diablo SV is a stunning example of a rare and thrilling Italian exotic. Boasting a unique specification, and a lesser-seen factory colour, this is a collector-quality 1990s ‘poster car’ that would make a superb addition to any supercar collection.

Summary of service history:

• 15 Dec 1997 - Lamborghini UK
• 18 May 1998 - Lamborghini UK
• 16 Oct 2000 - Lamborghini London
• 24 Aug 2002 - Lamborghini London
• 4 Dec 2003 - Top Gear Specialist Cars
• 18 Sep 2005 - Top Gear Specialist Cars
• 17 Jun 2006 - Trident Specialist Cars
• 5 Jun 2008 - Carrera Sport
• 2 Oct 2013 - Lamborghini Pangbourne
• 23 Jul 2015 - Colin Clark Engineering
• 1 May 2019 - Barr-Tech Specialist Cars

All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently covered by a finance agreement, but the remaining balance will be cleared before ownership is transferred to the buyer.