280 bhp (DIN), 3,464 cc DOHC V-12 engine, six Weber twin-choke carburetors, five-speed manual gearbox, four-wheel independent suspension with unequal-length A-arms, coil springs and anti-roll bars, and four-wheel Girling hydraulic disc brakes. Wheelbase: 100.4"

- Fresh two-year, concours-level restoration

- One of only 143 built from 1964 to 1967

- Single ownership for over 20 years

Ferruccio Lamborghini made his fortune by manufacturing tractors, and like many wealthy Italians of the postwar era, he bought himself a Ferrari (or two). However, as particular as Ferruccio was, he was not completely satisfied with Enzo’s offerings. And, as legend has it, Ferrari wasn’t too concerned with the issues Mr. Lamborghini had with his sports cars. Feeling snubbed by the industrialist from Modena, Ferruccio Lamborghini set out to build Italy’s finest GT car.

In 1963, Sant’Agata Bolognese was boldly awakened by the formation of Automobili Ferruccio Lamborghini, S.p.A. To fulfill his vision, Lamborghini assembled a veritable “dream team” of talent, some of whom were former Ferrari employees who took part in the infamous “Palace Revolt.” Lamborghini provided adequate resources and his enthusiastic support – their charge was to create the ultimate GT car that was at once beautiful, comfortable, fast and well built.

With work from such notables as Giotto Bizzarrini, Gian Paolo Dallara, Bob Wallace and designer Franco Scaglione, the resulting 350 GTV prototype gained acclaim at Geneva in 1963. With its four-wheel independent suspension and brilliant four-cam V-12 engine derived from Bizzarrini’s extensive racing experience, the 350 GTV promised outstanding performance. Further development, including the refinement of Scaglione’s show-car styling by Touring, begat the series-production 350 GT that debuted in 1964, again at Geneva.

For Lamborghini’s first shot at the sports car market, the 350 GT was an instant success. It was built remarkably well and was relatively quiet and quite refined. The 3.5-liter, all-aluminum engine trumped the three-liter V-12 that Ferrari offered at the time and produced 280 hp. Mated to a five-speed ZF manual transmission, the 350 GT was capable of reaching 60 mph from a standstill in less than seven seconds and could reach top speeds approaching 160 mph. With its four-wheel independent suspension and vacuum servo-assisted Girling disc brakes all around, the 350 GT offered remarkable passenger comfort and refined driving dynamics, making Lamborghini’s first automotive venture a truly capable Grand Touring machine in the finest Italian tradition.

This 350 GT, chassis 0547, was completed on September 19, 1967, and as such, it is one of the last examples of the series to have been produced. The current owner acquired it in May 1990. He has owned the car ever since and very recently treated it to a concours-level restoration, which was just completed in June 2011. It is certainly one of the finest examples extant and striking in appearance with its virtually flawless black exterior finish. Inside, the Oxblood Red leather upholstery and floor console are likewise impressive, in concert with a black leather-wrapped instrument panel and carpeting. The chrome trim and brightwork are excellent, as are the elegant wire-spoke wheels.

This first Lamborghini production car delivered on all its promises with solid construction, competitive handling, formidable performance and, of course, its distinctive and sexy Italian styling. As one of only 143 built before the 350 GT was replaced by the 400 GT 2+2, this car not only presents extremely well, it is also exceptionally rare.