If the first models to come out of the Sant’Agata Bolognese factories didn’t make as much of an impact as the red cars from Maranello, it was mainly because of their limited distribution and lack of sporting commitment. However, at the 1963 Turin Motor Show, the presence of a brand new manufacturer in the small world of sports cars did not go unnoticed. The prototype exhibited by Lamborghini, until then known more for its tractors and heaters, shook up the established references. Born under the astrological sign of the bull, Ferrucio is a go-getter and a besogner. When he has an idea in mind, nothing can stop him. His idea was to compete with Ferrari. It’s worth noting that Zagato modified two 350 GTs into the 350 GTZ, with its own bodywork, but made by Zagato, not Lamborghini.

In association with Touring, Lamborghini presents this 350 GTS or 350 GT Spyder. Only slight modifications are made to the Coupé, obviously the roof is removed and the windows reworked. The dashboard and centre console have also been reworked. These models were fitted with the original hard top. 2 were built by the factory in 1965, and one coupé was modified by the factory in 1982 for a French customer. 3 rarities whose value is hard to put a figure on…

The Lamborghini 350 GT was a moderate success, with 141 chassis produced between ’64 and ’67. In 1967, it was definitively replaced by the 350 GT 4.0L (23 examples called the 400 GT) and the 400 GT 2+2 (247 examples). A total of 411 chassis were sold, but their performance was already well ahead of the competition. Although extremely rare, the Lamborghini 350 GT and 400 GT were overshadowed by the spectacular Miura, which was to establish the brand’s credentials.

Presented at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show, the 400 GT 2+2 was distinguished from the 350 by its 2+2 coupé architecture on the same 2.55m wheelbase. The main distinguishing feature was the twin headlamps. Harder to spot are the slightly lowered floor and the slightly raised roofline created by the Touring coachbuilder. The V12 engine has also been enlarged to 3929cc by increasing the bore, producing 320bhp at 6500rpm, a development that is also offered on the 2-seater coupé. More powerful, but also heavier (1,500 kg) due to the use of steel body parts rather than alloy as on the 350 GT, the 400 GT 2+2 did not really improve in terms of performance, but still offered a top speed of 270 km/h. The engine is mated to a smooth and quiet 5-speed ZF gearbox.

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ferrucio Lamborghini, the Italian brand has promised a festive 2013. In addition to the major gathering in Sant’Agata, the Bull is adding a special Aventador to its range, the LP 720-4 50° Anniversario. While at first glance it might appear to be a ‘dumb’ Aventador, Lamborghini has been more subtle in distinguishing its 200 examples. In addition to a ‘Forged Composite’ badge on the rear bumper, the edition gets a new front end derived from the Aventador J and a restyled rear end. The highlight of the show, the 50° Anniversario, is available in spring yellow, a Giallo Maggio in homage to the colour of the Miura, built in 1963. The interior is the same as that of the original Aventador. The leather colours are inspired by the natural hues found in the landscapes of Emilia-Romagna, Lamborghini’s home region.