Lamborghini first introduced the Jarama at the Geneva Auto Show in March 1970. In order to comply with American safety and emission regulations, it was deemed necessary to replace the Islero in Lamborghini’s lineup – the Jarama was that car. Giampaolo Dallara had left Sant’Agata, so the task fell to his former assistant and now chief engineer, Paolo Stanzini. He cleverly removed 10.6 in. from the Espada chassis while leaving most everything else intact, including the 350-hp, 4.0-liter, quad-cam V-12 and five-speed manual gearbox. The result was a husky, yet angular 2+2 with flared wheel arches and NACA hood ducts like the Espada, but with unique hooded headlights all its own.

Jarama shared the wide track of the Espada, giving the small Lamborghini a broad-shouldered look that was attributed to Bertone’s Marcello Gandini. Construction was farmed out to Marazzi (who designed and built the Islero’s bodywork). Just 177 400 GTs were produced from 197–1973 before the model was upgraded to the 400 GTS. Another 150 GTS cars were built through 1978, making the Jarama one of the rarer Lamborghini models.

This Jarama is the 115th produced and it was delivered new to Modena Sports Cars of New York on 23 March 1972. It has traveled just 45,000 miles since then. According to the consignor, the car presents in wonderful condition, appearing largely unrestored save for a high-quality repaint in a handsome shade of metallic green by Grand Prix Motors of Campbell, California. Body panels are straight with consistent gaps and good fit. The interior, too, presents nicely, with excellent square-weave carpeting lining the floors. All switchgear is in working order and the original leather upholstery, door panels, and center console are in very good condition.

As one of the rarer Lamborghini models, that Jarama has until recently been overlooked by collectors. This is the perfect opportunity to experience V-12 Lamborghini performance at a more affordable price-point than the 400 GT or Miura.