50K Mile Lamborghini Miura SV Is A One-Off Marvel

A one-off Lamborghini Miura SV is expected to sell for between $3.5- and $4.25 million at the upcoming Pebble Beach Auction on 18 and 19 August.

The Miura is already an exceptional car, widely regarded as the first-ever supercar due to its groundbreaking mid-engine layout. Original P400 S models were already selling for一个多毫on in 2019, and the SV is the rarest of them all. It's estimated that only 150 were built, which is less than 20% of the Miura's entire production run.

This particular model is even more unique, as it's finished in Bleu Tahiti paint with gold accents over white leather. It is the only known model in this exact configuration. To make it even more special, it's one of only 30 examples equipped with the optional air-conditioning system. It cost $550 in 1972, which is roughly $3,800 accounting for inflation.

The Miura SV debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in 1972, sporting several design and mechanical changes. It was introduced with a reinforced chassis, redesigned rear suspension, ventilated disc brakes, and some tweaks to the engine. These tweaks bumped the V12's power output to 380 hp at 7,850 rpm and 295 lb-ft at 5,750 rpm.

TheBizzarrini-designed V12would live on for decades, powering several models right up to the Murcielago. The second-gen V12 powered the Aventador, and Lamborghini used its impressive profits to develop an all-new plug-in hybrid V12 for theRevuelto.

More importantly, Lamborghini tweaked the suspension and aerodynamics to handle that awkward lifting problem. Earlier models tended to start taking off at 120 mph, lifting the contact patches slightly. Mid-engine cars are known for being unforgiving, so you kind of need the front wheels to keep you pointed in the right direction.