1998 Lamborghini Diablo VT Roadster

Chassis No. ZA9RU31B1WLA12879

Following up the iconic Lamborghini Countach, the Diablo delivered on the promise of dramatic flair that the Raging Bull guarantees. The new flagship Lamborghini featured a new aluminum and carbon fiber coachwork brought to life by Marcello Gandini, the automotive designer behind many of the most iconic Italian designs. The Diablo joined the next generation of V12 supercars into the fully computerized world. Its technological advancements coupled with its devilishly good looks make the Lamborghini Diablo VT Roadster one of the most iconic 1990s supercars. During the early years, the majority of the Diablo's engineering went to powertrain development. It was not until 1995 at the Bologna Motor Show that the Roadster was combined with the most innovative Diablo version, the VT. The concept's open-air design, complemented by the robust powertrain made it an irresistible combination.

Through advancements in fuel injection technology, the Diablo's 5.7-liter V12 produced a roaring 530 horsepower. With this outrageous power output, Lamborghini engineers deemed it necessary to introduce an all-wheel drive system, smartly utilizing one derived from the Lamborghini LM002 SUV. Dubbed VT for “Viscous Traction,” the Diablo's all-wheel drive system was capable of diverting up to 25 percent of power during rear wheel slip to the front axle through a center differential, greatly improving the supercar's handling characteristics. Brembo four-piston brakes were added and combined with restructured brake ducts that optimized cooling. The VT Roadster also saw many creature comforts added to the Diablo platform. Power steering and an upgraded clutch pack made for a much more pleasant driving experience at cruising speeds. The revised air conditioning and removable, lightweight (16.5 pounds) carbon fiber top made daily operation much more feasible. Ergonomically, the cabin saw many improvements to maximize driver comfort. Most prominently, the front suspension was redesigned to widen the interior foot box and allow for larger, easy­-to-use pedals.

This Titanium Metallic 1998 Lamborghini Diablo VT Roadster is only one of 466 examples built, sporting the more desirable and cleaner pre-facelift front end, featuring the earlier retractable headlights. Additionally, it features the iconic revised 18-inch, two-piece aluminum OZ racing wheels that offer a better view of the enlarged four-piston Brembo calipers finished in black. The updated leather interior shows off many features that enhance the driving experience such as adjustable electronic suspension dampers and its five-speed manual transmission that make for an exhilarating driving experience. Originally purchased in Maryland in 1998, research suggests that in 2003, the car was sold publicly in Fairfax, Virginia trading to its second owner. In 2006, the car was listed for sale and was transferred to its third owner who registered the car in New Jersey. The CARFAX Vehicle History Report indicates that the car has received servicing throughout its ownership history. Most importantly for any prospective buyer, an eight year major service was completed last year in May 2022 at Lamborghini Palm Beach at the cost of $8,849.47 with records for this work on file and available for review. At cataloging, this well-maintained and unmodified example shows only 20,799 kilometers at cataloging or approximately 12,924 miles.

Offered with tools and an owner's manual, the VT Roadster — the first production open car from Lamborghini made in significant numbers — is a prime example of one of the most interesting variants of the Diablo. With a fantastic color combination, exceeding rarity, and outstanding driving characteristics, this Diablo VT Roadster would be an outstanding addition to any collection featuring the finest supercars to emerge from Sant'Agata.