In 1993, in response to criticism from its customers, Lamborghini launched the Diablo VT (for Viscous Traction) Series 1, whose main development was its new all-wheel drive system with central viscous coupling derived from the LM002. The 5.7 V12 remains unchanged, but the brakes have been strengthened – although ABS is still out – and a new computer-controlled Koni suspension has been fitted (5 modes for the driver to choose from). The dashboard has also been redesigned. Other minor changes include air conditioning, body-coloured mirrors, air intakes in the front bumper under the fog lamps, and new, narrower front tyres. In the face of the economic crisis, this model is intended to be more consensual and less expensive.

After Lamborghini was taken over by Audi AG in 1998, the Germans froze all new projects that had already been completed. This also applied to the model that was to replace the Diablo. Audi’s management preferred to exploit the supercar’s full potential. The VT 6.0 was the first and last real restyling to be accepted, but in reality it was no more than a cosmetic update of the existing model. The changes will involve a few body elements and the interior trim. The front bumper and air intakes have been redesigned. The instrument panel has been redesigned, as has the gear lever. On the other hand, Audi chose to replace the famous Lamborghini V12 engine with a 6-litre hybrid engine derived from the engine in the Diablo GT. The result for the driver is a slower transfer of power to the wheels. In addition, Audi engineers wanted to revise the four-wheel drive version, taking inspiration from their Audi Quattro. But we don’t treat this kind of car in the same way.

A special version of the highly acclaimed Diablo 6.0 was presented to the public at the 2001 Geneva Motor Show. The VT 6.0 Special Edition is a reissue of the version redesigned by Audi in 2000. The new paint finishes were Oro Elios, a metallic gold, and Marrone Eklipsis, a dark brown metallic. The only real innovation is the addition of a DVD audio player.

The second series of the VT Coupé and VT Roadster is above all a styling update. The model adopts the classic headlights of the Super Veloce and 18″ wheels on all four wheels. The interior layout has been completely revised. On the mechanical side, ABS has been introduced, and the 5.7-litre V12 engine now develops 530 bhp and features VVT (Variable Valve Timing) technology (as found on Alfa Romeo models since the 75) to improve efficiency at all engine speeds, with a significant reduction in fuel consumption and pollutant emissions. Acceleration was further improved, with the 0-100 km/h time dropping below 4 seconds. Lamborghini suspended production of this ‘VT’ version after just one year.

Back in 1992, Lamborghini presented a roofless Diablo prototype at the Geneva Motor Show. But it took 3 years of development to design the Diablo VT Roadster and its original sliding carbon fibre roof system. On the outside, the Diablo VT Roadster features side vents taken from the Diablo SE30, which feed the rear brake discs and oil coolers. The rear bumper is also very similar to that of the Diablo SE30. The front bumper is also different from that of the Diablo VT coupé. The fog lamps are now separate, with two rectangular and two circular ones, and are complemented by two air intakes on the sides for the brakes. The Lamborghini Diablo VT Roadster also gets twin oval tailpipes instead of the coupé’s round ones. Finally, the 17″ wheels on the Lamborghini Roadster are also special. Inside, the seats are a little different, with special leather capable of resisting water in the event of a surprise downpour. As its name suggests, the Diablo roadster is only available with all-wheel drive…

In the run-up to the new model, we’re still trying to arouse interest with an Nth special series. The main feature of this special edition was a customised interior, a combination of red and beige leather and alcantara, with MOMO 4-point seatbelts and a MOMO steering wheel… Some models also received 18″ chrome wheels… Once again, these models were only sold on the US market!

Inspired by the Diablo SE30 Jota , the new management wanted to offer even more extreme (and expensive) variants of the Diablo, in the form of limited series, likely to attract the wealthiest collectors. The Sant’Agata factory built the Diablo VT-R in 1996. Much less well known – only 3 (!) of the 5 originally planned were produced – the VT-R remains one of the brand’s last follies before… its new takeover. It’s quite possible that Lamborghini had some Diablo SE30 parts in stock, so the idea was to re-use them on a Diablo VT chassis, with the exception of the distinctive little windows and wheels, which were borrowed from the Diablo VT roadster. The Diablo VT-R uses a modified version of the 5.7L V12, capable of propelling the Super Diablo from all 4 wheels at 328 Km/h.

Lamborghini produced this unique model in 1996 to mark the launch of its first official competition model, the Diablo SV-R , used in the Lamborghini Supertrophy and SuperSport Trophy. The VT-R Roadster dropped the roof and front-wheel drive of the VT Roadster and was powered by the SV-R’s 600bhp V12 engine. The VT-R Roadster retained the front end of the VT, but the headlights were replaced by air intakes with NACA sockets, and the fog lamps were removed. The SV-R’s rear end, with its imposing diffuser and monumental flat spoiler, is also there to put on a show. In the cabin, only a bucket seat is fitted with a 5-point harness. Based on the principle of the SE30 Jota kit, large scoops draw in forced air just above the rider’s head.

Often referred to as the Espada (for short) or the Espada Serie I, this four-seater coupé with its extravagant lines is a real eye-catcher, with an astonishingly modern look. The Espada – Spanish for sword – offers performance similar to that of the Miura supercar, but for four people. A worthy heir to the 400 GT 2+2 coupés that launched the brand onto the international scene. And this time, it really will be a success. The four occupants are comfortably seated in a highly luxurious ambience that can be customised at will by the customer. While air conditioning is very much in demand, some models are also equipped with a television or mini-bar!

At the Brussels Motor Show in February 1970, Lamborghini offered a significantly revised engine known in Lamborghini literature as the “GTE”. This Espada “Series 2”, as it was also known, borrowed much of the Miura S’s powertrain. The brakes have also been revised, with 4 ventilated discs. The Espada Series II is distinguished by its small additional window on the boot in place of the Bertone grille, while in the passenger compartment the instrument cluster is now only in one section, compared with two tiers on the Series I. The console has also been modified, and power steering is now available as an option.