The Lamborghini Islero is a classic grand tourer introduced in 1968 as the successor to the 400 GT. It was designed to deliver a refined driving experience while maintaining Lamborghini’s tradition of powerful V12 performance. Named after the bull that killed the famous matador Manuel Rodríguez, “Manolete,” the Islero carries both heritage and prestige. Though less flashy than other Lamborghinis of its era, it offered understated elegance and exclusivity, making it a favorite among purists who appreciated its balance of performance and practicality.
Design and Styling
The Islero was styled by Carrozzeria Marazzi, a coachbuilder formed by ex-Touring employees after Carrozzeria Touring went bankrupt. Its exterior design emphasized clean lines, a low profile, and a more subtle appearance compared to the dramatic styling of later Lamborghini models. The Islero’s coupe body provided a timeless aesthetic that appealed to buyers seeking sophistication rather than flamboyance.
Performance and Specifications
Under the hood, the
Lamborghini Islero housed a 3.9-liter V12 engine that produced 325 horsepower in the standard model and 350 horsepower in the upgraded Islero S. Paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, the car could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds and reach a top speed of around 248 km/h. The Islero S, introduced in 1969, featured performance upgrades, improved handling, and refined suspension for a smoother ride.
Interior and Comfort
The cabin of the Lamborghini Islero was designed with luxury in mind. It offered comfortable leather-upholstered seats, wooden dashboard trim, and a spacious layout compared to many other sports cars of its era. The Islero S variant featured additional refinements, such as improved seating ergonomics and updated instrumentation. With seating for four, the Islero combined practicality with Lamborghini’s performance DNA, making it a true grand tourer.
Safety and Features
For its time, the Islero included essential safety elements like disc brakes on all four wheels and independent suspension, providing stability and control. The Islero S added wider tires, better brakes, and subtle chassis improvements to enhance safety and driving precision. While it lacked modern safety features, it delivered dependable performance for long-distance touring.
Price in Pakistan (2025)
As a rare collectible, the Lamborghini Islero is seldom found in Pakistan. In 2025, its estimated price would range between PKR 3.5–4.5 crore, depending on originality, restoration quality, and condition. Globally, its limited production of only 225 units makes it highly sought-after among collectors.
Competitors
During its production years, the Islero competed with cars like the Ferrari 365 GT 2+2, Maserati Mexico, and Aston Martin DBS. While competitors often emphasized flamboyant styling, the Islero stood out with its understated elegance and refined driving character.
Is the Lamborghini Islero Worth Buying?
The Lamborghini Islero may not have the dramatic looks of the Miura or Countach, but it offers a unique appeal for enthusiasts who value rarity, comfort, and V12 performance in a subtle design. Its limited production numbers, classic grand touring characteristics, and historical significance make it a worthwhile addition for collectors seeking an elegant and exclusive Lamborghini.