Founded only months before, Lamborghini had already made waves with the unveiling of the 350 GTV prototype, a collaborative masterpiece designed by Franco Scaglione and crafted at Carrozzeria Sargiotto in Turin. The 350 GT, a production model derived from this prototype, became the first tangible representation of Lamborghini’s vision. Celebrating the 60th anniversary of this milestone, the brand returned to Geneva, showcasing the 350 GT with the second chassis number, the oldest Lamborghini still in existence, to celebrate the origins of what has become an iconic emblem in automotive history.
The History behind a Supercar
The 350 GT’s introduction was a pivotal moment for Automobili Lamborghini, showcasing not just a car but the incarnation of a dream. From the onset, the 350 GT was recognized for its speed and elegance, blending sophisticated engineering with luxurious design.
The collaborative efforts of then-young engineer Giampaolo Dallara, famed chassis maker, and engineers Giotto Bizzarrini and Paolo Stanzani, who respectively designed and adapted the V12 engine, set a new standard in the industry.
Carrozzeria Touring of Milan was responsible for the aluminum bodywork, contributing to the car’s status as a luxury sports car.
This groundbreaking model captured the media’s attention and the public’s imagination at its Geneva debut. Its design, featuring leather interiors, chrome plating, and a unique 2 + 1 seating configuration, along with its engineering prowess, including independent four-wheel suspension and a 320 CV engine, exemplified cutting-edge innovation. The V12 engine, soon upgraded to 4 liters for the 400 GT, became a cornerstone of Lamborghini’s success, symbolizing the brand’s enduring legacy across several models for over four decades.
Beyond its technical achievements, the 350 GT also played a significant role in culture. The first unit was delivered to Giampiero Giusti, an Italian drummer, fostering Lamborghini’s longstanding association with the entertainment industry.
The car’s cinematic debut in the 1967 film “Kill Me Quick, I’m Cold” further cemented its iconic status. Although the very first 350 GT was lost to an accident, the second chassis survived, becoming the oldest existing Lamborghini.
Restored and certified by Lamborghini Polo Storico, this car’s return to Geneva is not just a tribute to its history but a celebration of Lamborghini’s enduring legacy, connecting past innovation with future aspirations.