The Lamborghini 400 GT was the company’s first sports car to feature a four-seat interior – a rare layout for the brand, making it a significant project. For the entire production period (1966-1968). only 247 automobiles left the assembly line.
Source: Tom Hartley Jnr
Although the first Lamborghini models did not have a long life and rather served as an intermediate link, they paved the way for the true legendary models that brought the company worldwide fame. One such vehicle was the 400 GT, which was built based on the brand’s first model. Despite the similarity with the previous automobile, almost all body parts of the new sports vehicle had been reworked. The fully independent suspension provided the novelty with excellent handling, and the bodywork differed significantly from the products of Ferrari or Maserati with its smooth lines, large oval headlights, and undeniable attractiveness.
Source: Premier Financial Services
The legendary brand began its stellar journey almost 60 years ago. When the successful tractor-manufacturing businessman Ferruccio Lamborghini bought himself two Ferraris, he realized that it would be nice to modify them a bit! With these thoughts, he turned to Enzo Ferrari himself, who at that time produced the best racing automobiles. Ferrari ignored Ferruccio’s suggestions and replied that the farmer could not advise a man who himself had been a racing driver and sports vehicle designer for decades. Ferruccio’s pride was so hurt that he decided to create his sports vehicle, superior to the Ferrari! In 1963, “the farmer” initiated its brand’s history with the GT 350 model. Following the success of the 350GT, Lamborghini continued to achieve triumphs with the equally prosperous 400 GT. This automobile made its debut at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show, featuring minor external changes but boasting an enhanced 4-liter engine. Additionally, it marked a significant milestone as it was the first Lamborghini vehicle to incorporate a gearbox designed by the company itself. The newly unveiled model exhibited a slightly elongated wheelbase of 4 inches and introduced small rear seats, along with subtle stylistic tweaks compared to its predecessor. Notably, the sports coupe showcased a raised roofline by 2.6 inches and a lowered floor. In contrast to its forerunner, the new automobile’s body was constructed using steel instead of aluminum. Powering the vehicle was a formidable V12 engine generating 320 horsepower, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. Carrozzeria Touring was responsible for crafting the car’s body.
Source: ConceptCarz
The sports vehicle reached its final year in 1968, and it served as the foundation for the Islero car produced by Lamborghini from 1968 to 1970. This car showcased a remarkable design, featuring a powerful 4-liter V12 engine created by Giotto Bizzarrini, and a notable 5-speed manual gearbox designed by Gian Paolo Dallara. Dallara sought advice from Porsche in developing this transmission, resulting in a unique design that incorporated synchronizer rings in all five gears. With a robust engine that generated 350 horsepower at 6,500 rpm, the 1968 edition offered remarkable acceleration, allowing it to reach 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds. It boasted an impressive top speed of 270 km/h. Setting it apart from other sports vehicles of its time was the notable inclusion of air conditioning, a feature uncommon in that era. The automobile came in two main versions: the 400 GT (known as the Interim) and the 400 GT 2+2. The former represented an updated version of the 350 GT, featuring a larger V12 engine that delivered 40 additional horsepower compared to its predecessor. It also showcased new quad headlights and two additional small passenger seats, while maintaining the same wheelbase as the 350 GT. This distinction marked the primary difference between the two versions.
Source: Uncrate
In 1968 The company produced 247 GTs – 23 of “400 GT” and 224 of ” 2 + 2″. Later, it was replaced by the Islero model.
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