The Lamborghini Diablo, a name synonymous with raw power and striking aesthetics, officially took the reins from the legendary Countach in 1990. This transition, unveiled in Monte Carlo, was not without its behind-the-scenes drama, marked by Chrysler’s acquisition of Lamborghini and subsequent creative tensions over the Diablo’s styling. Despite the corporate dynamics, Lamborghini successfully ensured Marcello Gandini, the mastermind behind the Countach, would shape the Diablo, albeit with subtle refinements from Chrysler to soften its sharp edges.
Customer deliveries commenced in June 1990, and the Diablo retained the Countach’s innovative mid-engine layout, complete with the unique reverse engine/transmission configuration and side-mounted radiators. However, enhancements were evident. The heart of the beast was an enlarged 5.7-liter Lamborghini V12 engine, now delivering a potent 492 horsepower. The bodywork transitioned to aluminum alloy, complemented by composite materials for the trunk and engine cover, while a square-section tube frame formed the car’s robust skeleton. Inside, the Chrysler-influenced interior offered a level of comfort and space previously unimaginable to Countach owners.
By 1994, Chrysler had exited the picture, and the Diablo VT made its US debut, featuring a viscous four-wheel-drive system that could channel up to 20% of torque to the front wheels. Further improvements included power steering, enhanced brakes, a redesigned interior and dashboard, and subtle bodywork revisions. These upgrades largely extended to the standard two-wheel-drive Diablo. The year 1995 marked the arrival of the Diablo VT Roadster, boasting a carbon-fiber roof panel that could be conveniently stored above the engine when open-air driving beckoned. A significant shift occurred in 1998 when Audi assumed control of Lamborghini, leading to a swift update in 1999. This 1999 revision notably introduced a redesigned dashboard and, crucially, fixed headlights, marking a departure from the pop-up style.
The 1999 Lamborghini Diablo Roadster represents a key evolution in the Diablo lineage. Coming after Audi’s acquisition, this model year benefitted from both Lamborghini’s established supercar DNA and Audi’s influence on refinement and modern features. The fixed headlights, a prominent visual change, not only updated the car’s face but also improved nighttime visibility and aerodynamic efficiency. The new dashboard offered a more contemporary and driver-focused cockpit. While maintaining the Diablo’s core performance figures and breathtaking open-top driving experience, the 1999 Roadster incorporated these subtle yet significant enhancements that solidified its position as a desirable iteration.
The Diablo underwent a final major redesign in 2000, becoming the Diablo 6.0, featuring revised bodywork, interior upgrades, and a larger 6-liter, 575-hp engine. This final variant continued until the Murcielago’s introduction in 2001. After an impressive 11-year production run, the Diablo concluded with just under 2,900 units built, cementing its status as an iconic supercar of the 1990s.
Even the base Diablo, capable of exceeding 200 mph and accelerating from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, didn’t deter Lamborghini from creating lightweight, high-performance limited editions like the SE30 and SV. These models prioritized weight reduction and increased horsepower, making them highly sought-after by collectors today. While any Diablo offers an exhilarating driving experience, often at a fraction of their original price, potential buyers should exercise caution. Supercars of this era may have endured demanding use, regardless of odometer readings. Thoroughly researching ownership history and prioritizing cars with comprehensive documentation is paramount when considering a Diablo purchase, especially a prized model like the 1999 Lamborghini Diablo Roadster.
