1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV Prototipo

Lamborghini finalized details of the Miura Spinto Veloce (SV) package on this car, chassis 4758. Like all Miuras, it has an exotic specification and sleek profile which define Lamborghini’s image more than any other model. It’s common to hear the Miura described as the world’s first supercar but we prefer to expand on this by calling it the first modern supercar since the Ferrari 275 GTB and Mercedes 300 SL came immediately before it.

Over time, upgrades and small details were changed on the Miura, but a huge update called the SV was planned in 1971 starting with development chassis 4758. The main focus of the SV was a new rear suspension that made the car much wider. Longer wishbones were fitted that added 1.5 inches of length. Furthermore, larger Campagnolo cast magnesium wheels were added with wider Pirelli Cintaurato tires. Many of these changes were undertaken by chief test driver Bob Wallace in conjunction with Claudio Zampolli and greatly improved handling of the Miura.

To accommodate the new setup, the first SV chassis was sent to Bertone so Gandini could redesign the wider rear bodywork, but other features such as smooth headlight surrounds, Fiat Dino Spyder rear lights and better integrated front signals were added. The result was a much more aggressive car that emphasized the Miura’s rear-engine power. Options such as Borletti air conditioning were also offered for the first time and fitted as standard on cars shipped to America. Only 30 cars were fitted with this essential option.¹

The prototype is the first car to feature many of the SV upgrades that later typified the model. It was first displayed at the 1971 Geneva Auto Show in Fly Giallo with black leather interior. It was distinguished from the later production versions by numerous detail differences such as different front headlight surrounds, and interior details such as the ashtrays.

Not long after being displayed the car was sold a full month ahead of SV production. The car spent its early life in Italy before coming stateside. There, it underwent a restoration with aim at the 2008 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance’s display honoring the 45th anniversary of Lamborghini. After being refreshed at Wayne Obry’s Motion Products Inc. That day it was awarded 3rd in class among the world’s best Lamborghinis.

Sources & Further Reading

1. Sackey, Joe. Lamborghini Miura Bible. Veloce Publishing: 2009.
2. Kidston, Simon & Marc Sonnery. Miura 360: The World’s First Supercar. 2010.
3. Pasini, Stefano.Automobili Lamborghini Catalogue Raisonne 1963-2002. Automobilia: 2002.
4. Coltrin, Peter and Marchet, Jean Francois
Lamborghini Miura. Osprey: 1982.

In Detail

submitted by	Richard Owen
type	Series Production Car
released at	1971 Geneva Motor Show
built at	Santa’Agata Bolognese, Italy
body stylist	Marcello Gandini
engineers	Paolo Dallara
production	1
predeccesor	1970 Lamborghini Miura P400 S
succeccesor	1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV
engine	60º V12
position	Mid, Transverse
aspiration	Natural
block material	Aluminum
valvetrain	DOHC 2 Valves / Cyl
displacement	3929 cc / 239.8 in³
bore	82.0 mm / 3.23 in
stroke	62.0 mm / 2.44 in
compression	10.7:1
engine designer	Giotto Bizzarrini
power	287.1 kw / 385 bhp @ 7850 rpm
specific output	97.99 bhp per litre
bhp/weight	292.33 bhp per tonne
torque	400 nm / 295.0 ft lbs @ 5750 rpm
body / frame	Steel body over Steel Box-Section Chassis
driven wheels	RWD
wheel type	Campagnolo Casr Magnesium
front tires	FR70VR-15 Pirelli Cintaurato
rear tires	FR70VR-15 Pirelli Cintaurato
front brakes	Vented Discs
rear brakes	Vented Discs
front wheels	F 38.1 x 17.8 cm / 15.0 x 7.0 in
rear wheels	R 38.1 x 17.8 cm / 15.0 x 7.0 in
steering	Unassisted Rack & Pinion
f suspension	Double Wishbones
r suspension	Double Wishbones
curb weight	1317 kg / 2900 lbs
wheelbase	2505 mm / 98.6 in
front track	1410 mm / 55.5 in
rear track	1540 mm / 60.6 in
length	4390 mm / 172.8 in
width	1780 mm / 70.1 in
height	1100 mm / 43.3 in
transmission	5-Speed Manual
top speed	~273.53 kph / 170 mph
0 – 60 mph	~5.75 seconds
0 – 1/4 mile	~14.3 seconds

Lamborghini Miura P400 SV Auction Prices

1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV Prototipo 4758 – sold for $1,705,000. Sold for $1,705,000 The Original Pre-Production SV Prototype. Several One-Off Features and Details. Completely Restored by Wayne Obry’s Motion Products Inc. and Jeff Stephan. 2008 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance Award Winner. Offered with Tool and Jack Kit, Factory Literature and Documentation. One of the Most Significant Lamborghinis in Existence. Auction Source: 2011 Amelia Island Auction by Gooding & Company