Lamborghini Islero S

Lamborghini Islero S

The Lamborghini Islero, named after the famous Miura fighting bull that killed matador Manolete in 1947, was introduced in 1968 as the successor to the 400 GT 2+2. Designed by Mario Marazzi (who had completed the final 400 GT bodies after Touring's closure) and later refined by Federico Formenti, the Islero was a more restrained and gentlemanly car than the spectacular Miura that dominated Lamborghini's headlines.

Ferruccio Lamborghini himself reportedly preferred the Islero to all other cars in his lineup, using it as his personal daily driver. This says much about the car's character: it was a supremely refined grand tourer that prioritized comfort, build quality, and usability over visual drama, qualities that the factory boss valued above all else.

The Islero used the proven 3929cc V12 engine with six Weber carburetors, producing 325 horsepower in standard form and 350 horsepower in the improved S version introduced in 1969. The S also received revised ventilation, improved interior appointments, and subtle exterior changes including additional air vents. The engine was characteristically smooth and powerful, providing effortless acceleration and a magnificent exhaust note.

The body, while attractive, lacked the visual impact of the Miura or even the preceding 400 GT. This understated quality was by design; the Islero was intended for buyers who wanted maximum performance without attracting unnecessary attention. The clean lines, greenhouse, and overall proportions were handsome rather than dramatic, and the interior offered excellent visibility and a sense of spaciousness unusual for a V12 GT.

All-independent suspension with double wishbones and coil springs at all four corners provided sophisticated handling. The ZF five-speed manual gearbox shifted with precision, and four-wheel disc brakes offered confident stopping power. The Islero was considerably easier to drive than the Miura, with none of the mid-engined car's handling quirks.

Only 225 Isleros were produced (125 standard and 100 S models) before the Jarama replaced it in 1970. Living forever in the Miura's shadow, the Islero has always been one of the most overlooked Lamborghinis, yet it offers arguably the most complete and satisfying driving experience of any 1960s car from Sant'Agata Bolognese.