Auto Car | Lamborghini Diablo SV | Following their acquisition of Lamborghini in July 1998, the Volkswagen Audi Group debuted the first Diablo to be partially developed under their ownership three months later. More than just a quick bit of cosmetic surgery though, the new SV and VT were the culmination of two years intensive work, 1999 model year Diablo's getting more power and torque, all new interiors, improved safety equipment and a distinctive new look thanks to glass-covered headlights. Available in two-wheel drive SV or four-wheel drive VT configurations, either type could be specified with Berlinetta or Roadster bodywork.
The VT was Lamborghini’s four-wheel drive Diablo, the SV a less refined rear drive version that appealed to the more enthusiastic driver. 1999 model year Diablo's wore 18-inch three-piece OZ wheels in a choice of three alternative styles and benefitted from the latest generation Lucas ABS technology, bigger Brembo ventilated and perforated brake discs and four cylinder aluminium alloy calipers. A Dynamic Rear Proportioning system minimised tail snaking under heavy braking and while the VT ’99's weight was unchanged at 1625kg, the SV shed 46kg in its transition to ’99 spec (1530kg). Both '99 variants used the 530bhp motor that had been introduced as an option late in 1997 with its revised engine management system and variable valve timing. Displacement went unchanged at 5707cc thanks to a bore and stroke of 87 x 80mm respectively. Although compression was generally set at 10.7:1, clients could have a higher setting if they desired while there was also the possibility of selecting alternative gear ratios. Performance was moved on once again with 0-60 shrinking to 3.9 seconds, top speeds rising to a monumental 209mph. The only major visual change was the substitution of Gandini’s retractable headlights for fixed lenses underneath clear glass covers.
Giving a brighter, broader and more consistent spread of light, the new Diablo was arguably looking better than ever despite approaching its tenth birthday. SV ’99's used different front spoilers to the four-wheel drive models whilst the VT Roadster and Berlinetta also differed from one another. Open-topped VT's got SE30-style engine cooling blades, while both types had distinctly different front spoilers. The Berlinetta retained the more traditional four square driving lights and brake cooling ducts while VT Roadster's were blighted with fussy spot lights and grilles best hidden by a dark paint scheme.
VT ’99's didn't get the hood mounted air scoops of the SV which also now came fitted with a colour coded carbonfibre rear wing as standard (although this could be deleted for the first time). VT ’99 Berlinetta's destined for the USA were nearly always fitted with Roadster front and rear bumpers, North American cars also featuring vertical blades for the engine cooling duct ahead of each rear wheelarch. Undoubtedly the most significant aesthetic revisions were inside though, the entire dash having been re-shaped to accommodate a passenger airbag, the sweeping new instrument binnacle being positioned closer to the driver. A redesigned central console and all new switchgear also made a big difference, the cabins improved ergonomics and more comfortable appointments being universally welcomed. Launched during October 1998 at the Paris Salon, the ’99 model year Diablo's were widely acknowledged as the best yet by roadtesters and journalists, the improved performance, dynamics and comfort receiving gushing praise. However, it was not long before Lamborghini were offering limited production versions often fitted out with special options. There were three special editions built, all on VT '99's, the Alpine, Momo Roadster and Millennium Roadster being covered in Part 8.
Specification
Make: Lamborghini
Model: Diablo Super Veloce
Year: 1995
Country of Origin: Italy
Type: Supecar
Class: A
Engine: V-12, Naturally Aspirated, 5,709 CC, Gasoline
Horsepower: 492 BHP @ 7,000 RPM
Tourque: 428 LB FT @ 5,200 RPM
Redline: 7,800 RPM
Brakes: Steel Discs all round
Wheels: 17 Inch Aluminium Alloys
Handedness: Left
Dials: All Analouque
Readout: KM/H
Transmission: 5 Speed H Pattern Manual With Dog Leg First
Driveline: M/R Mid Engined, Rear Wheel Drive
0-60: 4.0 Seconds
Top Speed: 203 MPH
(www.qv500.com)
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