Enzo Ferrari might have not known it at the time, but when he famously dismissed Feruccio Lamborghini as a “tractor manufacturer”, he planted the seed for the creation of not just a single beautiful vehicle, but a whole class of supercars.
The Lamborghini Miura was launched in 1966 and stunned everyone not only with its design, but also with its specifications. It featured independent suspension and disc brakes all around and more importantly, it was propelled by a mid-engined V12 that enabled the Miura to reach a top speed of 180 mph (290 km/h).
The Miura’s production run stopped at 765 units. Of these, only 150 were SVs, which stands for “Sprinto Veloce”. The 385HP Miura SV that was launched at the Geneva Motor Show in 1971 was the ultimate version, thanks to its significantly improved handling, Campagnolo wheels with wider Pirelli tires, ventilated discs and optional ZF limited-slip differential.
One such example, a rare 1972 right-hand drive conversion with chassis number 5036 featuring a completely rebuilt V-12 that has covered just 100 miles (160 km), is up for sale at RM Auctions. It boasts a factory-fitted air condition, limited-slip diff, radio package and very rare cloth- and Alcantara-trimmed interior.
Of course, such a car will attract only those with (very) deep pockets: RM Auctions estimates that it will fetch around £750,000-£900,000 (US$1.18 million to $1.4 million). The auction will take place in London on October 26.
You can also watch a 14-minute video of the Miura SV after the jump. The commentator speaks Japanese, but still the imagery and the sound of the SV make it worthwhile.
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