The Lamborghini Jalpa made its public debut at the March 1981 Geneva Auto Show; joining the Countach, this open coupe (removable “targa-style” roof section) has been referred to as Lamborghini’s “practical exotic car.”

The Jalpa was penned by Marcello Gandini of Carozzeria Bertone, who designed many preceding Lamborghini’s. A new “flying buttress” roofline extension, along either side of the engine bay, created a sharp fastback profile featuring jutting air intakes and uncompromising lines to create a car that looks purposeful and intimidating.

The November 1982 issue of Road & Track magazine featured the Jalpa on the cover and commented that “Exotic automobiles are wonderfully exciting. They provoke emotional responses among car enthusiasts that often transcend all rational considerations.” They continued that people “go crazy over a swoopy, low exotic car whose rumbling exhaust note synchronizes with their pulse rate.”

Recognized as the final attempt at creating an entry level Lamborghini with a V-8 engine; the Jalpa was another name given in true Lamborghini tradition, taken from a famous breed of fighting bulls, just like the Miura model name from the late 1960s. This new model was based on the original Urraco, but the Jalpa was more a successor to the Silhouette in concept with the similar open top, targa-style roof configuration of one large removable panel above the driver and passenger.

The Jalpa is reported to be freshly removed from the completion of cosmetic restoration and is presented in red with a tan interior. This uncommon Jalpa P350 is powered by a 3.5-liter, 255-hp V-8 engine that is mounted transversely and mid-ship. This respected powerplant is paired with a five-speed manual transmission. This car registers in kilometers (approximately 63,000) and these are thought by the owner to be original. Among the convenience features are air conditioning, power windows, dual sport mirrors, AM/FM radio, rack-and-pinion steering and power-assisted ventilated four-wheel disc brakes. Factory Campagnolo alloy wheels have a distinct style. This represents one of a reported 410 Jalpa examples built during its approximate six-year production run.

A Jalpa received attention and screen time in the popular Sylvester Stallone hit film “Rocky IV” as the title character’s driver. The popular Miami Vice television show had singer Phil Collins at the wheel of a Jalpa as he portrayed his character, “Phil the Shill.”

This machine has uncompromising lines that create a car that looks purposeful and intimidating. It remains an exciting driver’s car that continues to demand attention and command respect.