This exceptional Lamborghini Diablo, one of only 80 produced, is set to go up for auction.

      Bonhams

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      The Lamborghini Diablo became one of the iconic vehicles of the 1990s, much like its predecessors, the Countach and the Miura, which greatly influenced the two decades prior. Similar to those earlier models, the Diablo enjoyed a lengthy production period stretching from 1990 to 2001, allowing for substantial iterations. Simply expressing a desire for a Diablo isn't sufficient due to the numerous variants available. This particular model may be the standout among them.

      As part of the Bonhams Monterey Car Week auction, this 2000 Lamborghini Diablo GT represents one of the last iterations of Lambo’s supercar from the 1990s. Being a later release, it benefits from the decade of development experience Lamborghini gained, as well as the increased funding that followed Audi's acquisition of the Italian manufacturer in 1998. This model is also a return-to-basics, track-oriented variant and one of the rarest versions of the Diablo.

      Lamborghini introduced the Diablo GT at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show as a tribute to its then-nascent racing program, which competed internationally with the Diablo in sports-car events. With OZ wheels framed by flared fenders, NACA ducts, a roof scoop, a substantial rear diffuser, and a prominent rear wing, it certainly had the appearance of a race car. It backing that look with outstanding performance thanks to a 6.0-liter V12 (the earlier Diablo models featured a 5.7-liter engine) producing 575 horsepower. This enabled the Diablo GT to accelerate from zero to 62 mph in approximately 3.5 seconds, with a claimed top speed of 210 mph.

      Although Lamborghini had introduced all-wheel drive with the Diablo VT in 1993, the GT maintained rear-wheel drive and a five-speed manual transmission. True to the Diablo's spirit, this model allows enthusiasts to experience the exhilarating combination of a naturally aspirated V12, manual transmission, and rear-wheel drive without modern distractions. The cabin lacks contemporary technological features, similar to the chassis—so drivers must stay alert.

      A production target of 80 cars was set, but 83 were ultimately produced. Nonetheless, the GT remains the second-rarest Diablo road car after the 6.0 SE, of which only 44 were made (there were even fewer track-only SVR and GTR models). The car being auctioned is number 74 out of the 83 created. It is finished in Black Rage with a corresponding black leather interior accented by carbon fiber trim. According to the auction details, it has 8,828 miles on the odometer and has been meticulously maintained by a Lamborghini master mechanic for the last 19 years.

      The Diablo continues to be an emblematic figure today, encapsulating the essence of Lamborghini. Just as Ferrari is inextricably linked to Formula 1, the Lamborghini name inevitably evokes images of scissor doors, an unmistakable wedge-shaped design, and a naturally aspirated V12 engine. The Diablo GT stands as one of the purest representations of that vision, marking one of the last before the brand underwent a transformation under Audi's (admittedly effective) leadership.