The Lamborghini Diablo roared onto the scene in 1990, a dramatic successor to the Countach. It delivered a potent V-12 supercar experience, instantly captivating enthusiasts and becoming a formidable rival to Ferrari’s 512 TR. While the Diablo was an immediate icon, the 2001 Lamborghini Diablo Vt 6.0 marked a pivotal moment. This final iteration arrived as Lamborghini transitioned from Indonesian ownership to Volkswagen, becoming part of the Audi group in 1998.
Debuting a year later, this updated Diablo VT 6.0 showcased the design influence of Audi’s Luc Donckerwolke, Lamborghini’s new chief designer. He styled the car with cues from the forthcoming Murcielago, giving it a smoother front fascia with fixed headlights, body-colored taillight surrounds, and striking 18-inch Teledial-style alloy wheels. Underneath the refreshed skin, the VT 6.0 borrowed the all-wheel-drive “viscous traction” system and the enlarged 6.0-liter V-12 engine from the limited-production GT model. However, Lamborghini engineers enhanced both mechanical and electronic aspects of this engine, boosting output to an impressive 549 horsepower and a massive 457 lb-ft of torque.
This power surge transformed the already rapid Diablo into an even more formidable performer. The 2001 Lamborghini Diablo VT 6.0 could now blitz from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.8 seconds, and achieve a blistering top speed approaching 210 mph. At this velocity, only a select few hypercars like the McLaren F1 and Jaguar XJ220 could surpass it, placing the Diablo VT 6.0 firmly among the elite supercars of its era.
This particular 2001 Lamborghini Diablo VT 6.0 example is especially noteworthy. Finished in the sophisticated special-order shade of Grigio Iris with a matching leather interior, it was originally registered on September 11, 2001, to none other than French Formula 1 legend Olivier Panis. Panis, celebrated for his unexpected victory at the rain-soaked 1996 Monaco Grand Prix driving for Ligier-Mugen Honda, remained the last French driver to win a Formula 1 race until Pierre Gasly’s triumph in Italy in 2020. This car comes with its original registration document bearing Panis’s name, and even features his signature on the left rear wing, adding significant provenance. Reportedly, Panis owned the car until 2014, driving it approximately 19,200 km. Since then, it has been used sparingly, with the odometer reading just 20,443 km at the time of its cataloging.
The accompanying service books document consistent maintenance at Lamborghini dealerships. Services are recorded in 2001 (at 4,245 km), 2004 (11,350 km), 2010 (17,062 km), 2013 (18,595 km), and 2021 (20,257 km). Invoices further detail a €2,989 service in August 2017, which included a clutch replacement, and additional work totaling €3,782 in May 2021 at Imperiale Sport Car Service in Italy. This later service covered an oil and filter change, new spark plugs, and fresh brake fluid. A German TÜV certificate was issued in March 2022, confirming its roadworthiness.
The VT 6.0 is widely considered the most refined and ultimately collectible version of the Diablo. It represents a crucial bridge in Lamborghini’s history, linking the bold designs of its earlier period with the advanced engineering brought in under Volkswagen’s ownership. The 2001 Lamborghini Diablo VT 6.0 continues to be highly sought after by both collectors and drivers. This specific example, with its low mileage, rare color combination, and fascinating connection to a celebrated racing driver, amplifies the undeniable appeal of these final-run Diablos, making it a truly exceptional find.
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original_image_url_front_view.jpg:alt="Front three quarter view of a Grigio Iris 2001 Lamborghini Diablo VT 6.0 showcasing its iconic wedge shape and updated fixed headlights."original_image_url_side_profile.jpg:alt="Side profile of a 2001 Lamborghini Diablo VT 6.0 in Grigio Iris, highlighting its low stance, 18-inch Teledial wheels, and aerodynamic silhouette."original_image_url_panis_signature.jpg:alt="Close up of Olivier Panis' signature on the rear wing of the 2001 Lamborghini Diablo VT 6.0, a testament to its celebrity provenance."
