As the 1980s drew to a close, Lamborghini, the scrappy Italian automaker who established its wild reputation with the revolutionary Muira, then cemented it with the brash Countach, realized a new raging bull was needed for the firm to maintain its notoriety. Three weeks into the new decade, on January 21, 1990, the team at Santa’Agata Bolognese succeeded in completing a trifecta with their outrageous Diablo.

With aluminum coachwork penned by the celebrated Marcelo Gandini and refined by parent company Chrysler (which had acquired Lamborghini in 1987), the Diablo instantly became the poster car for a new generation of enthusiasts—many of whom would cement their appreciation for the radical new Lamborghini after experiencing it virtually in the era’s driving video games. The Diablo continued to employ the Countach’s groundbreaking mid/rear engine layout, using a development of the prior model’s aluminum V-12, which now displaced 5.7 liters and developed 485 brake horsepower. With a top speed of 205 mph, the Diablo joined an ultra-select group of supercars in the 200-mph stratosphere.

It was the arrival of all-wheel drive in 1993, however, that launched Lamborghini from childhood bedroom poster exotic to a true technological marvel. Standing for “viscous traction,” the VT employed a version of the LM002 “Rambo Lambo” SUV’s all-wheel-drive system to provide superior traction and acceleration. This system brought a welcome dose of technological sophistication to a marque that had become best-known for flamboyant styling and hair-raising performance.

Offering an alluring blend of power, style, and celebrity provenance, one of these technological sensations, chassis 12970, is presented for sale here. Completed 3 December 1993 as an Italian home-market example, the car was finished as it is today in Silver Mist over Nero leather trim and furnished with electric windows, climate control, and an Alpine cassette stereo system.

After completion, chassis 12970 entered service as one of Lamborghini’s press cars where it was used for many tests and trials—with none more famous than Formula 1 Champion Michael Schumacher’s turn behind the wheel for German magazine Auto Bild in 1994. Upon besting other contemporary supercars around the test track, Schumacher was impressed with the car’s power delivery, sound, and handling, remarking, “He’s more civilized than he looks.” Period press clippings of Schumacher’s driver are included in the sale.

Since passing into private hands, the car is reported to have had just two owners and remains in exceptionally well-preserved condition. In March 2021, chassis 12970 was treated to an extensive service by the technicians at André Nout Classic Car Services of Dirksland, Holland. Documented work included an engine oil and filter change, new spark plugs, oil pressure sensor and warm-up regulators along with an engine and injection gallery cleaning. More recently, in July 2024, the car received a service by Lamborghini Miami which included the installation of a fresh set of Pirelli PZero tires. After its service, the Diablo was submitted to Lamborghini Polo Storico for certification. A service booklet, factory brochure, and collection of owner’s manuals with leather wallet complete the sale.

Blending technological sophistication with flamboyant styling, and featuring unique celebrity provenance, this Diablo VT makes an ideal acquisition for any collector of noteworthy contemporary supercars.