PROVENANCE
Dr. Giordello, Naples, Italy (acquired new in 1968)
Dr. Fernando Sanchez, New Orleans (acquired in 2001)
Current Owner (acquired from the above)

THIS CAR
This elegant example of Lamborghini’s handsome Islero 400 GT 2+2 is number 106 of a series of just 125 units. Unveiled just before the 1968 Geneva Auto Show, the Islero was another step forward in Ferruccio Lamborghini’s quest to create “a perfect car.” With a fully independent suspension, it was argued in period that the Islero was more comfortable and better handling on the road than its Ferrari contemporaries. Powered by a silky-smooth four-liter V-12 delivering 320 hp through a five-speed gearbox, performance was very impressive for the day, with 0–60 coming up in less than six seconds, and a 165-mph top speed. Large, power-assisted, four-wheel Girling disc brakes handled stopping chores.

The Islero was styled and built by Mario Marazzi, formerly of Carrozzeria Touring in Milan, and featured a longer roofline than that of the 400 GT. The bodywork was wide enough to accommodate light-alloy, center-lock wheels borrowed from the Miura.

This Islero departed Sant’Agata Bolognese wearing Blu Notte Metallizzato (Blue Metallic) paint over Senape (Mustard) leather. On November 30, 1968, it was delivered to Dr. Giordello, a Lamborghini dealer in Naples. According to the consignor, this car was exported to the US in the 1980s, passing through the hands of an individual in Boston and then spending 15 years parked at a Jaguar dealership in Chicago. In 2001, showing approximately 30,000 km, Dr. Fernando Sanchez of New Orleans acquired the Lamborghini, restored it to working order, and drove it sparingly. The consignor acquired the Islero from Dr. Sanchez in 2013 and commissioned a restoration.

After complete disassembly, the body was stripped to bare metal, with all trim, brightwork, and glass carefully removed. The Islero was resprayed in its original factory color, and the glass, including the original windshield with a Rome parking sticker dated 1971, was reinstalled. The dashboard, center consoles, and door panels retain their original pigskin, but the seats were re-covered in leather, and carpets were replaced with new Wilton wool.

According to the consignor, the recent work performed was extensive. He states that the four-cam engine received a top-end overhaul, the carburetors were rebuilt, and there are new hoses, lines, and belts. The electrical system was thoroughly checked to assure all features work properly, including the retractable headlamps. Suspension, steering, and brake components were rebuilt or replaced. The gearbox was overhauled, and there is a new clutch and ANSA exhaust system. All five alloy wheels were refinished and fitted with new Michelin XWX radial tires.

Now showing approximately 53,000 km, this rarely seen exotic presents beautifully, and is supplied with a copy of its factory build sheet, an original tool roll, spare tire, jack, owner’s manual in a leather case, and restoration documents.