320 hp, 3,929 cc double overhead camshaft V-12, with six 40 DCOE two-barrel Weber carburetors, five-speed gearbox, four-wheel independent suspension, four-wheel disc brakes. Wheelbase: 99.5"

- One of only 247 Lamborghini 400 GT 2+2s originally built

- Meticulously restored to show-quality standards

- A matching-numbers example

- Previous ownership of 41 years

Enzo Ferrari’s legendary snub of Ferruccio Lamborghini may be myth, but it helps to explain why by the mid-1960s Italy’s third largest builder of farm tractors was willing to undertake the design and construction of a premier gran turismo.

To implement his plans, Lamborghini assembled a ‘dream team’ of talent: Giotto Bizzarrini, Gian Paolo Dallara, test/development driver Bob Wallace, the racing development shop of Neri & Bonacini in Modena and the designer of the famous Bertone BATs, Franco Scaglione. He then gave them adequate resources and enthusiastic support; their charge was to create the ultimate GT car, being at once fast, beautiful, comfortable, reliable and well built. The 350 GT delivered on all its promises but also included more of the attributes sought by Lamborghini, in particular solid construction. Only 143 350 GTs were built before it was replaced by the 400 GT 2+2 in 1967.

This sublime European specification 400 GT 2+2 was supplied new to its first owner in Belgium where it resided until 1970, at which point it was exported to California. The new owner was a true enthusiast, and chassis 1195 remained in his care for a total of 41 years.

Having covered just 36,000 careful miles from new, this lovely example of Italian craftsmanship has been meticulously cared for throughout its entire life. After many years of enjoyment, the decision was made to restore the Lamborghini to its former glory, and in June 1997, the long and meticulous restoration commenced. The vendor advises that no expense was spared during the process with superb attention to detail. The deep green metallic coachwork has a beautiful luster to it and is accentuated by the highly polished brightwork and factory-original Borrani wire wheels. Indeed, all the original glass, headlights, trim and turn signal lenses are still on the car.

The complementary interior has been trimmed with the finest quality tan calfskin leather and wool carpeting. The refinished original switchgear, radio and Jaeger instruments remain in place, as does the factory-fitted Nardi steering wheel.

Today chassis 1195 is fully restored and presents beautifully. The magnificent V-12 engine has just been rebuilt in 2011 by marque specialists Bobileff Motorcar Company; it is the original unit fitted to the car, making this a desirable matching-numbers example. The engine is mated to a well sorted transmission, drivetrain and brand-new, correct ANSA exhaust system.

With excellent presentation and a known history with just three recorded owners from new, this 400 GT exhibits higher standards of fit, finish and detailing than perhaps even those of its original manufacturer. Complete with a comprehensive service file, original Belgian license plates and a factory tool kit, this sharp and fastidiously maintained Lamborghini 400 GT 2+2 is one of the finest we have ever had the pleasure of offering.