Fantasy Junction

Description

1968 Lamborghini 400GT 2+2
s/n 01273 engine no. 40555
Red with Tan Leather Interior

Legend has it that Ferruccio Lamborghini set out to build his own sports car after a disagreement with Enzo Ferrari. Whatever his motivations, the Italian industrial magnate was soon producing a car that was better built, more technologically sophisticated, and better performing than contemporary Ferraris. The technical specifications were impressive, including a quad cam V-12, fully independent suspension, disc brakes, and a five-speed gearbox, initially made by ZF, and then in house by Lamborghini. The contemporaneous Ferraris however, still employed single cam motors, live rear axles, and four-speed gearboxes. The contemporary press reveled at the refinement, build quality, performance of this newcomer, and was pleased to find that the 350GT and 400GT were also more luxurious and less demanding to drive than Ferraris, while still remaining equally involving and capable.

The 350GT and 400GT were replaced by the 400GT 2+2 in 1966, which was substantially the same, but with a revised roofline and floorpan to permit a pair of small rear seats. The 4 litre quad cam V-12 remained, as did the rest of the mechanical specification, aside from detail changes. Just 240 examples were built in all, with production concluding in 1968.

This particular example is a late production car that was originally supplied to Bob Estes, the contemporary West Coast Lamborghini distributor based in Southern California. It has been owned by the same collector since at least 1990, and during his ownership, it was fitted with a rebuilt non-matching engine sourced from Arizona (likely from Lamborghini engine Guru Bob Wallace, or GT Car Parts). In 2001, the car received an engine out service including the replacement of the right cylinder head gasket, engine compartment detail, fluid change, and brake system rebuild, including rebuilt calipers and new hoses.

Cosmetically this 400 GT is one of the nicest Fantasy Junction has had the opportunity handle. It has a high quality paint job that is in very good condition. There are a handful of small chips and nicks, and one crack on the right door, but the paint is otherwise free from damage and makes a very strong overall impression. The panels fit well and the gaps are very good. The chrome is also excellent, with only the lightest of wear. The Borrani wire wheels are newer units and make an outstanding presentation. The window glass shows light scratching- although less than usual- appears to be original to the car.

The interior has been trimmed in high quality, supple tan leather and wool carpets. The seats, door panels, and carpeting show very light signs of use, but this is only evident upon stringent inspection. The oil pressure gauge has been upgraded to a more reliable VDO unit, while the balance of the period correct Jaeger gauges remain, along with the factory wood steering wheel.

The engine bay, while not detailed for show purposes, is dry and tidy and is evidence of the care and attention given to this example during the current ownership period. The underside, while not detailed, is exceptionally solid and straight. We stress this positive point, as quite often, especially with European delivery cars, 350 and 400 GTs are subject to corrosion.

The car drives good as it looks with excellent power delivery, smooth transmission with good syncros, compliant suspension and competent braking.

The car comes with a reproduction operations manual, and matching Borrani spare wheel with newer tire. With less than 250 400 GT 2+2s built, the solid, presentable nature of this rare example will prove itself as an enjoyable investment vehicle in the years to come.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608