1967 Lamborghini 400 GT 2+2
photo: artcurial
This is one of the rare cars of this kind that I bought completely new " André Trigano told us. Indeed, this Lamborghini 400 GT comes with the certificate of conformity dated 20 December 1967 that records its chassis number and the name of the buyer, André Trigano. " I had a 350 GT, but when this new model appeared, with rear seats, I changed it immediately. What I really liked doing in this car, was driving it fast on the motorway. There were no speed limits then, and not as much traffic as there is today. " In relation to the speed, the certificate of conformity states: " At maximum engine revs, the theoretical top speed of the vehicle is around 250 km/h. " André Trigano also told us: " For me, it's the best-looking Lamborghini, and it's easy to drive. I much preferred it to Ferrari. "
photo: artcurial
The Lamborghini 400 GT was a particularly successful car, following on from the 350 GT, a model descended from the 350 GTV prototype designed by Franco Scaglione and presented in Turin in 1963. In order to transform this show car into a production model, Ferruccio Lamborghini pulled out all the stops and called on the very best engineers. For the chassis he turned to Gian Paolo Dallara, assisted by Paolo Stanzani and the future test driver Bob Wallace. The V12 engine was designed by Giotto Bizzarrini, to whom we owe the Ferrari Testa Rossa and 250 GTO. For the coachwork, Carrozzeria Touring adapted the initial design to accommodate the engine and passengers without compromising the originality and elegance of its styling. Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 1964, the 350 GT was lauded by the press for its excellent driving qualities, making it clear that Lamborghini was a manufacturer not to be ignored.
The 400 GT 2+2 followed two years later, with coachwork subtly modified to accommodate two rear passengers and a 4-litre 320 bhp engine. Teething problems in the earlier model were also resolved with improved running gear and transmission.
As confirmed by the dynamic Polo Storico Lamborghini, this model was delivered new to the Parisian dealer Paris Monceau on November 23rd 1967 in a red Amaranth livery and mustard leather interior. The notes specify that the engine, with Landini block, was assembled on September 17, 1967, and that the car was equipped with a tinted windscreen and a rear demister system. A final test was carried out over 400 km on November 22, 1967 before delivery.
photo: artcurial
André Trigano's Lamborghini is in exceptionally well conserved condition. The bodywork has been repainted red. The magnificently conserved interior is original, with flawless mustard leather upholstery and dashboard. The rear seats are inviting and even have their own ashtray! This well-equipped car has electric windows, wooden gear knob and a cluster of instruments including oil temperature and pressure gauge. The speedometer and rev counter carry the Lamborghini bull motif, and facing the passenger is a Blaupunkt radio. The odometer displays 33 745 km. We had the good fortune to experience how well the car runs, alongside André Trigano, whose face lit up as the revs of the V12 engine increased. When the car finally came to a halt, he concluded with emotion: " This car represents 50 years of my life! "
The 400 GT is a rare car (247 examples all versions together), and an important one in the marque's history as it established the base from which the manufacturer grew. This example comes with the added benefits of having one owner from new, a low mileage and careful, regular and uninterrupted maintenance. These features make this one of the best and most desirable 400 GTs on the market, something which will not go unnoticed by the new owner.
