We cover all sorts of cars from all different eras, but today, we’re taking a trip back to 1997 to discuss and talk about possibly one of the most interesting Lamborghini Diablo examples ever produced. This is the one-off 1997 Lamborghini Diablo Roadster R (VLA12710) and it was constructed by Lamborghini with the intention of promoting the car for a proposed one-make USA racing series. This extremely special variant of the Diablo was also built purposely in order to promote Lamborghini’s Diablo SV-R race car, which was the first ever Lamborghini that was officially entered into racing by the factory. The SV-R is essentially the result of taking a standard Diablo SV, and stripping out all of the functions that aren’t needed for track use. The SV-R made it’s first public appearance at the 1996 Geneva Auto Show, and a first public race in June 14th at the Le Mans circuit, where 28 SV-Rs raced that day. The Roadster R shown here, which is also considered the VT-R Super Trofeo by some, was tested, but never once raced. The car featured many racing elements however such as Brembo brakes, a singular Sparco racing seat, air jacks, a roll cage, Eibach springs, Koni shocks, and a tremendous carbon fiber rear wing. The Roadster R interestingly featured two-wheel drive and also of course, a highly tuned variant of the V12 found in the standard Diablo VT Roadster. While the Roadster R was not actually ever a participant in any race, the car was exhibited by Lamborghini in the USA at multiple events and auto shows. Other interesting features on the Roadster R include air intakes in place of where the headlights would normally be, the complete lacking of any sort of roof, which would normally be found on a standard Diablo VT Roadster. Reportedly, this unique one-of-a-kind creation was sold to a collector in the US sometime around 2006, however, it’s current whereabouts are not publicized and not much information regarding where the car might be exists publicly.
How many made? 1 of 1
Engine: 5.7 L V12 tuned for 650hp
Debut: N/A
Top Speed: N/A
0-60mph: N/A
Photo Credit: Lambocars.com & @thelamborghiniregistry
Research: @rarecarsonly