Welcome to a journey back in time, as we delve into the roaring heart of Lamborghini’s legacy. To celebrate the Italian marque’s illustrious 60-year history, we’re revisiting some of Sant’Agata’s most iconic creations. In this installment, we reignite a long-standing passion for a machine that, for many, represents the pinnacle of Lamborghini engineering and design: the Diablo Lamborghini Vt.
My connection with the Diablo runs deeper than a mere road test. Picture this: Nardo test track, over two decades ago, discussing Lamborghini’s safety approach while piloting a Diablo at speeds exceeding 200 mph. It’s a baptism by fire, an experience that inextricably links me to this beast. To this day, the specifics of that safety briefing are hazy, overshadowed by then-Lamborghini boss Giuseppe Greco’s nonchalant advice to keep it “below 240 kph (150 mph)” due to wind conditions. But in a Diablo on the legendary Nardo oval? Staying below 150 mph felt almost sacrilegious.
The Nardo circuit, a seemingly endless 7.8-mile banked oval, is designed for ‘hands-off’ cruising at 152 mph. In the Diablo, even at these speeds, it felt like it was just stretching its legs. Driven by an irresistible urge to truly unleash this raging bull, I did what any self-respecting petrolhead would do. As I reported for Top Gear magazine back then:
“I floor the accelerator and the Diablo surges forward notching off personal bests all the way. The speedo zips past 300km/h. At 320km/h I have to concentrate harder as the wind is beginning to jostle the car around. At 340 the steering goes momentarily light over a bump and the car steps a foot or two to the right. Then at the 8km mark the wind shifts to behind me and the car stabilises. Foot firmly to the floor the speedo needle continues to creep round. It runs out of places to go at 360km/h – that’s a shade over 220mph in real money. The rev counter is just a few rpm short of the red line. This car will not go any faster.”
The Diablo Lamborghini VT, therefore, is not just a car; it’s the architect of my personal land speed record. This alone cements its place in my automotive pantheon.
Front profile of a gold Diablo Lamborghini VT 6.0, showcasing its aggressive styling and iconic pop-up headlights replaced by fixed units.
Reacquainting myself with the Diablo 6.0 after twenty years is like reigniting a passionate romance. Having spent the day experiencing automotive royalty – the elegant 400 GT, the revolutionary Miura SV, the modern marvels Aventador Ultimae and Huracán Tecnica, the agile Gallardo, and the iconic Countach – it becomes strikingly clear: my old flame, the Diablo Lamborghini VT, might just be the most captivating of them all.
When the Diablo first burst onto the scene in 1990, it was a raw, untamed successor to the Countach. Early models were notoriously hardcore, devoid of power steering and relying solely on rear-wheel drive to manage the potent 5.7-liter V12. However, under Audi’s stewardship, the Diablo evolved. By the end of its production run, it had transformed into a more refined, yet equally breathtaking supercar.
The 2001 Diablo VT 6.0, resplendent in Oro Elios gold, stands as the definitive iteration of this legendary model. One of the last off the production line, it became a prized possession in Lamborghini’s own collection. Giotto Bizzarrini’s legendary V12 engine, now enlarged to 5,992 cc and enhanced with electronic fuel injection, delivered a staggering 543bhp. Crucially, this immense power was now channeled through a Viscous Traction (VT) all-wheel-drive system, offering enhanced control and handling.
Luc Donckerwolke’s 1999 restyling gave the Diablo Lamborghini VT a more contemporary edge. The original pop-up headlights were replaced with sleek, fixed units, and carbon fiber was strategically employed to reduce weight and enhance aesthetics.
Side view of a Diablo Lamborghini VT 6.0 in motion, highlighting its sleek lines and powerful stance as a legendary supercar.
Inside the Diablo VT 6.0, carbon fiber makes a bold statement, adorning the instrument panel, center console, and kick plates, harmonizing with swathes of luxurious dark leather. While the carbon weave might seem somewhat dated by today’s ultra-modern standards, back in its era, it was an exotic and highly sought-after material, a testament to Lamborghini’s commitment to cutting-edge technology and visual drama.
The introduction of Audi-sourced switchgear marked a significant leap in quality and refinement. In fact, the Diablo VT 6.0 feels like the first Lamborghini where ergonomics genuinely entered the design equation. Finding a comfortable driving position is effortless, and surprisingly, visibility is commendable, making each drive less of an ordeal compared to its predecessors. Power steering, ABS, and electronically adjustable suspension further contribute to a more civilized, yet still exhilarating, driving experience. The VT system intelligently distributes power, primarily sending it to the rear wheels, but seamlessly diverting up to 20 percent to the front wheels when slip is detected, ensuring optimal traction.
Interior of a Diablo Lamborghini VT 6.0, featuring carbon fiber accents, dark leather, and Audi-sourced switchgear, emphasizing the blend of luxury and performance.
On the road, the Diablo Lamborghini VT belies its 1,600kg weight, feeling remarkably agile. The power-assisted steering is responsive and communicative, allowing for quick and precise direction changes without the arm-wrestling required in a Countach. Braking performance is decidedly modern, instilling confidence.
Harnessing the full potential of the high-revving V12, which demands 7,100rpm for peak power, necessitates engaging with that exquisite, gated manual gearshift. While it may not possess the clinical slickness of a Mazda MX-5’s gearbox, each shift in the Diablo VT is deeply rewarding. The mechanical engagement – the initial clunk into first, followed by the satisfying metallic click-clack as you ascend through the gears – creates an unparalleled sense of connection between driver and machine.
Close-up of the gated manual gearshift in a Diablo Lamborghini VT 6.0, symbolizing the visceral and engaging driving experience of this classic V12 supercar.
My drive, though brief, is intensely passionate. Navigating a blend of fast, flowing roads and tight, winding sections, the Diablo Lamborghini VT proves utterly captivating and visceral, yet surprisingly approachable. Its breathtaking aesthetics and the symphonic roar of its naturally aspirated V12 engine amplify the reasons why, in my estimation, this car represents the zenith of Lamborghini’s creations.
The market seems to echo this sentiment. Diablo VT models in concours (#1) condition are appreciating in value, currently averaging around £200,000 according to экспертов. While this price tag places ownership beyond my reach, the enduring allure of the Diablo Lamborghini VT, much like a cherished past love, lies in the unforgettable moments shared behind the wheel. It remains a true legend, a V12 masterpiece that continues to captivate and inspire.
