This is the one of one Marcello Gandini-designed 1967 Lamborghini Marzal (chassis 10001), a four-seater with gullwing doors constructed by none other than Bertone S.p.A., one of the world’s most iconic and best-known coach building and design companies. The goal behind the Marzal by both Nuccio Bertone and Ferruccio Lamborghini was to create a true GT with comfortable seating for four people while still offering a good amount of performance. The Marzal, like almost all other Lamborghini models, is named after a strain of fighting bull, and is sometimes referred to as the predecessor to the Lamborghini Espada production car. The Marzal used a prototype 6-cylinder engine developed by Lamborghini that would ultimately never ever see production, it was a unique combination of a 2.0 L I6 with a wonderful 5-speed manual transmission. The chassis for the Marzal was a highly-modified Miura chassis, extended by 120mm to fit the additional seating. Ferruccio Lamborghini famously objected to Bertone’s chief stylist Marcello Gandini’s usage of gullwing doors with glass panels claiming that the doors “offer no privacy: a lady’s legs would be there for all to see.” While this was definitely a concern as you can see the doors were still used, and the design resulted in perhaps one of the most intriguing cars to ever come from the Italian car manufacturer. While the Marzal never saw production, a car with very similar aesthetics did: the Lamborghini Espada four-seater coupé. The Espada actually looks a while lot like the Marzal, but without the rear-engine layout and glass doors. Some other interesting innovations seen on this prototype include an eye-catching interior with silver leather upholstery, 6 narrow S.E.V. Marchal headlamps, an independent front and rear suspension with triangular wishbones, four-wheel disc brakes, and much more!
How many made? 1 of 1.
Engine: 175 bhp, 1964 cc six-cylinder in-line engine, three Weber 40DCOE carburettors, five-speed gearbox.
Debut: Geneva Motor Show (March 1967)
Top Speed: 118mph (claimed)
0-60mph: 8.9 seconds
Photo credit: @guillaumemazerolle
Research: @rarecarsonly