Makes and Models: 400GT

Steeped in elegance and performance, the Lamborghini 400 GT emerged as a symbol of automotive artistry and engineering prowess. With its distinctive design and powerful capabilities, it enchanted enthusiasts and drivers alike, leaving an indelible mark on the world of luxury automobiles.

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Prepare to be captivated by the allure of a timeless classic – the Lamborghini 400 GT. Proudly donning the Gran Turismo badge, this exquisite rear-wheel drive vehicle was meticulously crafted by the esteemed Italian manufacturer. Its production spanned from 1966 to 1968, representing a thrilling evolution from its predecessor, the revered 350 GT.

The origins

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The Lamborghini 400 GT was created as the successor to the first production car by the Italian automaker. The company’s founder had a vision of creating the ultimate Gran Turismo car that was fast, powerful, comfortable, and easy to drive. The project began in 1964 and the car was finally introduced at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show. The new model was designed by two legendary automotive designers, Gian Paolo Dallara and Paolo Stanzani, who were also responsible for the creation of the Miura. The body was designed by Carrozzeria Touring, a Milanese coachbuilding company that had worked with the brand in the past. The car’s interior was designed by Nuccio Bertone, who was responsible for the design of many iconic Italian sports vehicles. Under the hood, the sports vehicle received a 4.0-liter V12 engine, producing 320 horsepower, and had a top speed of 160 miles per hour. The car boasted a four-speed manual gearbox and independent suspension, making it a delightful experience to drive on open roads. In due course, the vehicle achieved immediate acclaim, owing to its sophisticated design, potent engine, and opulent interior. It swiftly became a preferred choice among affluent car aficionados and renowned personalities, such as Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Overall, the manufacturer produced 247 units of the 400 GT, concluding production in 1968. Today, this model holds a revered status as a vintage automobile, highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its timeless design and impressive performance continue to captivate car enthusiasts worldwide.

The 1967 model year

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The 1967 model exemplified the exquisite craftsmanship of Italian automotive design during the 1960s. Beneath the sleek exterior, it housed a formidable 3.9-liter V12 engine, boasting an output of 320 HP and 276 lb-ft of torque. Its 5-speed manual transmission ensured precise and engaging gear changes, enabling a top speed of 160 mph and an impressive acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. Constructed with a tubular steel chassis and an aluminum alloy body, this combination rendered the vehicle lightweight yet robust, endowing it with exceptional handling capabilities. The suspension system featured independent coil springs both at the front and rear, complemented by telescopic shock absorbers. Inside, the 1967 release provided a luxurious and comfortable ambiance. The seats were adorned with high-quality leather upholstery, while the well-designed dashboard hosted user-friendly gauges and controls. Wrapped in leather, the steering wheel felt delightful in one’s hands. Moreover, the car’s spacious and airy cabin owed much to the generous glass area, which offered excellent visibility. The convenience of electrically operated windows and a sunroof added to the overall appeal. Compared to its predecessor, the 350GT, the 400GT showcased several noteworthy improvements. Most notably, the larger engine delivered enhanced power and torque, while updates to the chassis and suspension contributed to improved handling and a smoother ride. The 1967 edition featured subtle yet striking design revisions, including more aggressive styling and a lower profile. The addition of retractable covers for the headlights enhanced the automobile’s aerodynamic appearance.

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It was the last Lamborghini model with the iconic “Miura-style” dashboard, which featured a cluster of gauges and switches placed horizontally across the center console. The dashboard design was changed to a more conventional layout with the gauges placed behind the steering wheel starting in 1968.

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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.

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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.

The origins

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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.

The 1968 model year

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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.

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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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The Lamborghini 400 GT was a true masterpiece of automotive engineering. It was a car that embodied the very essence of Italian design and craftsmanship, with every detail meticulously crafted to perfection. 

Source: Tom Hartley Jnr

Driving the Lamborghini 400 GT was an experience that words couldn’t fully capture. It was a journey that took a driver on a thrilling ride through the very essence of what it meant to be alive. It was a vehicle that made you feel alive, and you knew that you were in the presence of something truly incredible.

The origins

Source: ConceptCarz

In the late 1950s, Ferruccio Lamborghini, a successful tractor manufacturer, decided to pursue his lifelong passion for automobiles. He was dissatisfied with the current state of Italian sports vehicles and set out to create his masterpiece. In 1963, the businessman unveiled his first automobile, the 350 GT, which, eventually, became a stunning success. However, the ambitious Italian knew that he could do even better: the automaker wanted to create a vehicle that would push the boundaries of design and performance, and he enlisted the help of his top engineers. By 1966, the brand had developed the successor to the 350 GT – the 400 GT. The automobile turned out to be a true masterpiece, with a powerful V12 engine, luxurious interior, and sleek, aerodynamic design.

The team behind the model included some of the most talented engineers and designers of the era. Chief among them was Gian Paolo Dallara, who oversaw the development of the chassis and suspension of the vehicle. He worked closely with Bob Wallace, who was responsible for aerodynamics and handling. The car’s stunning design was the work of Marcello Gandini, a young designer from the legendary Bertone design house. His design was both sleek and aggressive, with bold lines and a powerful stance that hinted at the car’s incredible performance. The Lamborghini 400 GT was officially unveiled to the public in 1966 at the Geneva Motor Show, becoming an instant sensation. The automobile’s breathtaking design and unparalleled performance captured the hearts of car enthusiasts around the world. In the years that followed, the Lamborghini 400 GT continued to evolve, with improvements to the engine, suspension, and other components. It remained one of the most sought-after sports vehicles of the era, and it remains an iconic symbol of Italian design and engineering to this day.

The 1968 model year

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The 1968 version received a 4.0-liter V12 engine, which was an upgrade from its predecessor. This engine produced 320 horsepower and could reach a top speed of 160 mph. The automobile had a 5-speed manual transmission, and the rear-wheel drive provided excellent handling and stability on the road. The suspension system of the 1968 version was also upgraded with stiffer springs and anti-roll bars. The brakes were four-wheel disc brakes, which provided excellent stopping power. This release also had a longer wheelbase than the predecessor, which provided more interior space and better ride comfort. The interior of the 1968 edition was designed for luxury and comfort. The seats were upholstered in fine leather and had excellent support for long-distance driving. The dashboard was made of wood and had an array of gauges and controls that were easy to read and use. Moreover, the vehicle had power windows, air conditioning, and a powerful sound system, which were all luxurious features for the time. The main difference between the 1968 Lamborghini 400 GT and the previous model year was the larger engine. The suspension system was upgraded with stiffer springs and anti-roll bars, which improved handling and stability. The 400 GT had a sleeker body design compared to the 350 GT, which gave it a more modern and aggressive look.

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The 1968 Lamborghini 400 GT was featured in the classic heist movie “The Italian Job” which starred Michael Caine and was released in 1969. 

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The legendary Miura’s sibling – 400GT, was presented at the  1966 Geneva Motor Show. The success was inevitable, as the model was the epitome of Ferruccio Lamborghini’s ultimate Gran Turismo concept – powerful, fast, comfortable, and easy to drive.

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The first production vehicle of the famous Italian brand, the 350GT with an unusual body, was the masterpiece of the legendary Carrozzeria Touring studio, presented at the Geneva Motor Show in 1964. Ferruccio decided to entrust the design of his first vehicles to this iconic studio. In 1966, the model underwent significant technical improvements, getting a more powerful engine with a capacity of 4000 ccs. The new car was named 400GT. Moreover, the additional two rear seats made the roadster’s interior more comfortable. It also got dual headlights, which replaced the oval headlights – the hallmark of the previous 350th.

 The origins

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The history of the legendary sports vehicle brand began when  Ferruccio Lamborghini decided to produce his automobiles after buying Ferrari. He found it uncomfortable enough for long travels, eventually deciding to make a perfect Gran Turismo vehicle. So, the idea of building his automaking company was born. Ferruccio financed it with the money earned from making tractors. By the beginning of 1965, his first model had already gained considerable popularity. With the advent of this vehicle, the victorious march of the newly born brand and its fruitful history began. The brand entered the market with the Carrozzeria Touring studio-built 350GT model, and the 400GT followed it two years later. The 350GT was built by Touring using Superleggera’s patented aluminum bodies. However, the new roadster used heavier sheet metal and had a completely different design. The result matched Ferruccio’s wishes. 

The 1966 model year

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In 1966, the first 350GT model was replaced and equipped with a 320 hp V12 engine with a displacement of 3929 cm3 and a 5-speed manual transmission. The body, as the first one, was made by Carrozzeria Touring. Externally, the new automobile was distinguished from the 350GT by a smoother roofline with a smaller rear window and twin round headlights instead of single oval ones. The first series in 1965-1966, known as the Interim, was a two-seater, and the second, presented at the Geneva Motor Show in 1966, already had a 2 + 2 layout with the same wheelbase (2550 mm). A total of 23 two-seaters and 224 four-seaters were sold. The Lamborghini’s new model looked and felt like a long-haul vehicle with a true Lamborghini spirit. By upsizing the V12 engine and the compression ratio the automobile got an additional 40 hp over the 350GT. The roadster developed a top speed of 270 km/h and accelerated to 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds! Thus, it became faster than a Ferrari! Its 5-speed manual transmission with a synchromesh replaced the old Salisbury. It was a gearbox designed by Gian Paolo Dallara, chief engineer at Lamborghini, who was responsible for the differential. The V12 was powerful and quiet, reliable, and pliable, at the same time. The rear suspension was increased to handle the potential weight of two extra passengers, but the car’s agility was not affected. The 400GT was a great GT of its time – a fast, graceful, and elegant one that cemented Lamborghini’s reputation by captivating European and American buyers alike.

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Source: RM Sotheby’s

The model served as a base for two remarkable roadsters – Monza and the Flying Star II. The first was a racing coupe built by Neri & Bonacini studio for an American racer who intended to participate in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. However, Monza did not pass homologation, and the order was canceled. Interestingly, the car was sold after its debut at the Barcelona Motor Show in 1967. 

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