"Unveiled at the 1981 Geneva Salon but not put on sale until the following year, the Lamborghini Jalpa (or Tipo P118/B) was conceived as a rival to the likes of the Ferrari 308/328GTS and Porsche 911. Based on an updated version of its Silhouette predecessor's sheet-steel monocoque bodyshell, the newcomer boasted a reinforced subframe, all-round independent coil-over wishbone suspension, ventilated four-wheel disc brakes and 16” alloy wheels. A handsome targa-roofed two-seater design with a deep front spoiler, prominent wheelarch extensions and distinctive rear three-quarter engine vents, its styling was the work of Bertone. Named in the best Lamborghini tradition after a particularly fierce breed of bull, the Jalpa employed a bespoke powerplant. Reworked by legendary chief engineer Giulio Alfieri (late of Maserati) and designated the L353, the 90-degree DOHC V8 utilised an aluminium block and cylinder heads. Fed by four twin-choke Weber 42 DCNF carburettors, the 'over-square' (86mm bore x 75mm stroke) 3485cc unit was credited with developing some 255bhp and 232lbft of torque. Transversely mid-mounted and allied to five-speed manual transmission, it reputedly enabled the Jalpa to sprint from 0-60mph in 6.2 seconds and onto 150mph. Revamped in 1984, the `baby' Lambo gained body colour-coded engine and roof sections, while options included telephone dial wheels and a Countach-style rear wing.
This barn find Jalpa was sourced from Japan after a year long search and was originally set for restoration. Our vendor who purchased the car and imported in 2017 had commissioned the work which began in earnest upon arrival. The engine, which we are informed ran perfectly well prior to disassembly, was removed by Auto Cavallo for an overhaul whilst all trim was removed and surfaces prepared ready for the paintwork, however due to business commitments the car was parked in an adjacent dry barn and to date has barely been moved. We are informed the car is believed to be complete though some parts may need to be replaced upon restoration, the shell appears rust free and structurally strong. It is indicated in an invoice for the cars preparation for paint that the engine had new fluids, cleaned carburettors and a run prior to the disassembly in December of 2017. The car has been stood for some time but always in a well ventilated dry barn and in good pre-restoration standard. This barn find is supplied with a NOVA certificate and import papers, the invoice for the engine commissioning and pre-restoration preparation coupled to the £70,000 invoice for purchase from Cars Australia & New Zealand. This is a fabulous example of a car ready to enter the second stage of restoration on a fabulous Italian baby supercar.The health and safety of both our customers and team remains the utmost priority, we are therefore operating to Government guidelines throughout viewing and auction day."