Three antique Lamborghini’s have been discovered in a junkyard, sparking excitement among car enthusiasts and collectors alike. These rare finds, three Lamborghini Miuras, are often regarded as the world’s first supercars and have a combined estimated value of £1.5 million.
The cars, covered in dust and left abandoned for decades, were part of a collection owned by the late Rudi Klein, a renowned car collector and owner of Porsche Foreign Auto Wrecking, who passed away in 2001. The discovery of these three Miuras, all restorable examples of Lamborghini’s iconic V-12 engine supercar, is a remarkable find that has caught the attention of many in the automotive world.
The three Miuras will be auctioned off at the end of October by RM Sotheby’s in a special event titled ‘The Junkyard: The Rudi Klein Collection.’ This event marks the first time that one of the world’s most secretive car collections has been made available to the public, adding to the allure and excitement surrounding these rare cars.
Among the trio is a particularly notable 1968 Lamborghini Miura P400, believed to have been originally owned by Lamborghini engineer and test driver Claudio Zampolli. Zampolli is credited with importing Lamborghinis to Southern California in the 1970s, making this specific Miura a piece of automotive history with a unique provenance.
The Miuras are thought to have been in storage for over 40 years before their discovery, adding to the mystique and appeal of these classic cars. Zampolli reportedly sold the 1968 Miura P400 to Klein’s wrecking company in 1978, where it remained hidden away until now, waiting to be restored and appreciated once again.
The Lamborghini Miura made its debut as a rolling chassis at the 1965 Turin Motor Show, generating significant interest and setting the stage for what would become one of the most iconic supercars in automotive history. By 1966, a fully designed prototype was unveiled at the Geneva Salon, solidifying the Miura’s status as a groundbreaking and revolutionary vehicle at the time.
The Miura P400, known for its 350 horsepower and top speed of 170 mph, was built in limited numbers, with only 275 units produced before the model was succeeded by the upgraded P400. This rarity and performance capabilities have made the Miura a highly sought-after collector’s item, with enthusiasts eager to own a piece of automotive history.
RM Sotheby’s, the auction house managing the sale of these rare Lamborghinis, has highlighted the significance of the 1968 Miura P400 in the auction listing, calling it “one of the true paragons of sports car design” and a “blue-chip collectible of unanimous merit.” The unique history and provenance of this specific Miura only add to its value and desirability among collectors.
Originally finished in Lamborghini’s signature Giallo Miura with a Bleu leatherette interior, the 1968 Miura P400 was dispatched from the factory to Lamborcar, a dealership in Italy, in March 1968. The first recorded owner is listed as Mr. Zampolli, further cementing the car’s historical significance and connection to the Lamborghini legacy.
While the Miura was repainted bright aqua green over the years, it has remained in storage for nearly half a century, preserving its original features and character. For automotive enthusiasts looking to acquire these rare Lamborghinis, the upcoming auction presents a unique opportunity to own and restore these iconic supercars to their former glory.
RM Sotheby’s has emphasized the appeal of these hidden gems, stating that “for the true purist of automotive archaeology, who would be so bold as to oversee a major rejuvenation, there could hardly be a more inviting prospect.” With the auction expected to draw considerable interest from collectors around the world, the opportunity to own a piece of automotive history is within reach for those willing to invest in these legendary Lamborghini Miuras.
In conclusion, the discovery of these three antique Lamborghinis in a junkyard is a rare and exciting event that has captured the attention of car enthusiasts and collectors alike. With their unique history, provenance, and potential for restoration, these classic cars are set to make waves in the automotive world as they head to auction later this year. Stay tuned for more updates on this remarkable find and the upcoming sale of these iconic Lamborghini Miuras.