www.QV500.com - Lamborghini Diablo Part 1: Diablo

Lamborghini began developing a successor for the Countach in 1985. Known simply as Project 132, this new car would be replacing a true automotive icon. The Countach had already been in production for over 15 years, cementing Lamborghini's reputation for producing uniquely outlandish supercars. Delayed by changes in ownership from Patrick Mimram to Chrysler, P132 eventually surfaced in 1990, the Diablo taking its name in typical Lamborghini fashion from a 19th century fighting bull involved in a legendary battle with the famous El Chicorro.

Lamborghini’s objectives were for a faster, better handling and more comfortable machine than the outgoing model, but all the ensuing headlines were about the Diablo cracking 200mph and eclipsing Ferrari's F40 as the worlds fastest production car. Many variations were produced between 1990 and 2002, the initial 5.7-litre, 492bhp, two-wheel drive Diablo being joined by a four-wheel drive VT in 1993, a limited edition 525bhp SE30 in 1994 and a VT Roadster in 1995. Dwindling sales for the two-wheel drive car saw Lamborghini introduce an SV with up to 530bhp in 1996, an SV Roadster following two years later while all production models were updated for the 1999 model year after Audi took control. SV ’99 and VT ’99 Diablo's were subsequently introduced, these being identifiable by their glass covered headlights. Sold alongside a limited edition 6-litre 575bhp Diablo GT before the 2000 model year 6-litre VT was launched, there were also a plethora of special editions and factory built racers.

The original P132 was introduced with a square-tubed steel chassis reinforced with carbon fibre inserts and high strength alloy for the cabin cell. Suspension was independent all round with single telescopic shocks at the front and twins at the back, anti-roll bars and front anti-dive electronics further enhancing performance. Brembo ventilated discs used four calipers at the front and two at the rear, the only questionable move having been Lamborghini's decision not to fit power-assisted steering. Weighing in at 1576kg, the Diablo was 86kg heavier than the outgoing Countach and featured 17-inch OZ alloy wheels shod with Pirelli P Zero tyres. A modified version of the Countach's old 5.2-litre 60° V12 was used, Lamborghini’s engineers increasing displacement to 5709cc. Mid-mounted and positioned longitudinally, this dry-sumped 5.7 had bore and stroke measurements of 87 x 80mm respectively. With compression set at 10.0:1, output rose to 492bhp at 7000rpm, 37bhp up on the Anniversary.

A new multi-point fuel injection system was developed by Lamborghini, Marelli and Weber, the presence of three-way cats and lambda sensors ensuring the Diablo complied with even the most stringent emissions legislation. Transmission was via a five-speed gearbox with single dry plate clutch and ZF final drive. Having already designed the sultry Miura and sensational Countach, Marcello Gandini was selected to create bodywork for P132. However, the development process was fraught with technical difficulties and setbacks from the outset. After expressing dissatisfaction with the first prototype, Gandini conducted an extensive reworking, only for Chrysler to force yet another redesign after taking control of the firm. This mattered little in the end though as the predominantly alloy-bodied machine with its carbon composite engine cover, front lid and bumpers, was an infinitely smoother design than the final Countach with no wheelarch extensions, bulky airboxes or tacked on spoilers.

One of the Countach’s trademark styling cues did survive, Gandini’s upward-hinging scissor doors making the transition although cockpit access was now much improved. One-piece windows replaced split level items from the Countach, details like these and far better visibility making the Diablo significantly more user friendly. Although the cabin was originally to have been penned by Gandini, it was eventually created by the Chrysler Design Center in Detroit. A bulky instrument binnacle sat atop a sloping dash, the huge transmission tunnel separating steeply raked bucket seats and lending the cockpit a substantial feel. Trimmed in full leather, customers could optionally specify an expensive Breguet clock, fitted luggage and a rear wing. Custom paint and interior trim was available to those with a suitably endowed wallet. Launched in January 1990 at the Hotel de Paris in Monte Carlo, the Diablo caused a sensation with its specification, styling and performance.