1966 Lamborghini Miura: The First Supercar Eve

The 1966 Lamborghini Miura, the absolute game changer in sports cars, became a classic almost immediately after its preview. It is an engineering masterpiece with a central V16 engine and an iconic sleek body; the two-seater quickly became a rock star in sports car venues. At that time it was the fastest production road car available. Cameo appearances in films, Batman Begins and The Italian Job, reinforce its luxury rating and appeal. Famous owners include actor Nicholas Cage and billionaire property tycoon Jon Hunt.

Automobil Ferruccio Lamborghini S.p.A. was unapologetically in competition with Enzo Ferrari when the company introduced its first car, the 350GT in 1963 at the prestigious Turin Motor Show. At this point, Lamborghini became a serious contender, the car certified the company’s skill and panache. However, it was the Lamborghini Miura prototype that broke the mold at the prestigious at the 1966 Geneva Auto personal project of three engineers, revolutionized the industry with its design and performance. The developers’ concept focused on a car that could win on the professional racetrack and be driven on a highway by the speed enthusiasts.

The lightweight car continues to increase in value, there are rumors that the Miura will soon be selling for close to $1 million. In 1967 there were 12 of the cars for sale in the United States. First rate service to match its dynamic status were provided. Dealers would provide service by actually sending a driver in a Cadillac to the owner’s location, leave the Cadillac as a loaner, and then driving the sports car back to its original location after servicing. Its closest competitors were the 1967 Ford Mark III and the 1965 Ferrari 275/LM. Both of these were definitely race track cars and never quite made the transition to roadster.

The Miura is superior to other models in appearance, the chassis was race car inspired, and awesome handling levels complement the power. Additionally, its performance, space, and finishing for street and highway driving is stimulating. The car has all-independent suspension, four overhead cams, and transverse-mounted rear engines. The car runs smoothly, perfect for pedal to the metal high speed touring or casual cruising. These are results of weight distribution improvements like moving the battery out of the central frame tunnel and into the front compartment. Another change included pivoting the accelerator from the floor as opposed to a suspended mount.

The body was the work of renowned automobile designer and constructor Nuccio Bertone in collaboration with Lamborghini’s designer. Bertone was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in 2006. This explains the stunning style and the compilation of mechanics and aesthetics that prompted 10 orders after an early showcasing. These commitments were made by viewers who only saw the chassis on display. The rear window louvers were an industry first. Lamborghini had planned to build 50 models, however, it doubled its production after the enthusiastic reception.

Initially, the company’s founder was not convinced that the high-priced car had sales potential. He only relented because he thought the prototype would generate favorable publicity for the company. Instead the Miura became a fast car standard, exactly the eclectic road car that Ferruccio Lamborghini had always dreamed of building. After production began in 1967 the units sold as rapidly as they became available. Between 1966 and 1973 Lamborghini manufactured and sold 764 of the cars in Europe, North America and world-wide.

The 1966 Lamborghini Miura P400 has a 2-door fastback coupe body type, rear wheel drive, and a manual 5-speed gear box. The top speed is 174 mph, and the car can accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than 7 seconds. The spark-ignition 4-stroke engine was manufactured by Lamborghini L400, the fuel systems has 4 carburetors. Vehicle horsepower is 345 hp (net), fuel capacity is 23.8 US gallons and it has a manual transmission with 5 gears. Standard tires are 205 VR 15 Pirelli Cinturato HS, a manufacturer known for its affiliation with Maserati, Ferrari and other high-end Italian exotic cars. The curb weight is 2,848 pounds. The curb weight is determined by calculations incorporating all standard equipment, operating combustibles such as oils and coolants, and a full tank of fuel. There are girling disc brakes all around, hydraulically operated, and rack and pinion steering.

Internationally, classic car dealers are still profiting from the sales of 1966 Lamborghini Miuras. For a taste of the ultimate fast lane visit a showroom that includes the Miura in its inventory to browse and dream.

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