Challenging Enzo Ferrari
When Ferruccio Lamborghini announced in 1963 that he would beat Ferrari it its own game by introducing a sports car that could compete with Enzo’s Prancing Horses, the whole automotive industry called him a dreamer. However, only three years later the Italian car enthusiast would keep his word. At the Geneva Motor Show of 1966, Ferruccio introduced the Lamborghini Miura which outshone all other supercar manufacturers for years to come. The rich and the famous were all over Ferruccio Lamborghini. They didn’t ask about the price, just the delivery time.
The Miura, which is officially named Lamborghini Miura P400, is still one of the most sought-after Lamborghinis ever made. What is highly appreciated by collectors is its unique design. Legend has it that Mr. Lamborghini often had problems with his Ferrari and complained to company boss Enzo Ferrari. The latter replied that Lamborghini could only build tractors and not sports cars, whereupon Lamborghini wanted to prove his opponent wrong and built a faster sports car. You only have to look at a Miura to feel Ferruccio Lamborghini’s rage after Enzo Ferrari dumped him and even mocked him as a tractor manufacturer.
Bizzarrini’s Masterpiece
Giotto Bizzarrini, a former Ferrari engineer is the mastermind behind the Miura’s V12 engine. For those who don‘t know, Mr. Bizzarrini also created the Ferrari 250 GT as well as the renowned Ferrari 250 GTO, making him an automotive industry legend.
When the Miura was revealed, the supercar’s engine was more powerful than any Ferrari motor. The V12 has a displacement of 3929 cm³ and comes according to the version with either 350 PS (P400), 370 PS (P400S) or 385 PS (P400SV). With a top speed of 280 km/h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds, the Lamborghini Miura P400 set new standards in the sports car sector. The further development of the Miura, the S and SV were even faster and stronger with a sprint time of only 5.5 seconds to 100km/h.
Lamborghini Miura by Kevin Van Campenhout
Lamborghini Miura by Kevin Van Campenhout
Variants and special models
The Miura was built from 1966 until 1972 when Lamborghini introduced the successor model, the Lamborghini Countach. As already noted, the Miura was available in three different variants of which the exact production numbers are not clear. According to different sources, a total of 764 Miuras were built (Miura P400: 474 units / Miura P400S: 140 units / Miura P400SV: 150 units). Other sources quote a total production number of 763 Miuras (P400: 275 units / P400S: 338 units / P400SV: 150 units). But ultimately, numbers remain unknown and a secret that will be stored forever in the history books of Lamborghini.
Of course, Lamborghini also built some Special Editions & One-Offs for its best clients. My favorite is the Lamborghini Miura SVJ, of which only 6 were produced. One was built new (chassis #5090) and five were converted from existing SVs (chassis #4934, #4860, #4892, #4990 & #5084).
Price and Collectability
The Miura quickly won the hearts and minds of collectors all around the world, especially for those who loved the outlandish shape. With its extraordinary looks and stunning performance, the Miura became an icon not only among car collectors. As the epitome of masculinity, the supercar was highly demanded by rock stars, playboys, and wealthy individuals alike.
Original selling price in the late ‘60s was around USD 20’000. As one of the most desired Lamborghinis, the supercar obviously increased in value. Current market price of the Miura is between USD 1.5 to 2.5 million depending on the variant and condition of the vehicle.
Summary
Brand:
Lamborghini
Model:
Miura
Price:
Original selling price was USD 20’000 but current market price is around USD 1’500’000 to 2’500’000 CHF depending on the version.
Limitation:
Small production batch of only 764 cars.
When to drive:
The Lamborghini Miura’s roaring V12 is unique. So is its appearance anywhere you go. Although the Italian bull was built to compete with Ferrari, it is a great collection car that you had better use carefully. However, personally, I would show up at any upper class event to drop some jaws around the city.
What we love about the car:
With its extraordinary looks and stunning performance, the Miura became the car of rock stars, playboys, and wealthy individuals alike. Ever since, the Supercars has kept its status as such.
Photography: Kevin Van Campenhout IG: @kevinvanc
