Model biography
The Islero followed the basic form of its predecessor, the 400 GT, but not the function. This was a two-seater that was reminiscent of the early Lamborghinis. A long bonnet and spacious boot were more in keeping with the traditional GT styling cues, while the cabin was comfortable and finished to an extremely high standard. First launched at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1968, the Islero retained the same mechanical layout as the 400 GT, and the same 4-liter V12 engine, mounted at the front. New to the brand were the covered headlights and raised rear bumpers. The Islero embodied all that company founder Ferruccio Lamborghini had envisioned for a luxurious, high-performance car.
Assembled by Carrozzeria Marazzi, the panels were produced by Carrozzeria Bertone. Lamborghini produced 155 Isleros, and 70 units of the Islero S, which were distinguishable by the air intakes on the front fenders and a larger hood scoop.
Design
The Islero featured new styling cues compared to its predecessors, with straight, square lines that were in keeping with the style evolution of the time. The rounded shapes that were typical of the 1960s were gradually replaced with more angular lines that came to symbolize automotive design in the 1970s. The bodywork production was undertaken by Carrozzeria Bertone after Carrozzeria Touring in Milan, which had produced the bodywork of the 350 GT and 400 GT, had filed for bankruptcy and was no longer an option for Lamborghini. Bertone had the machinery and the personnel to produce the sheet metal, while the final assembly was carried out by Carrozzeria Marazzi.
Technical features
The Islero can trace its heritage back to the 400 GT, but the chassis was shortened by 11.5 cm compared to its predecessor, and the weight was reduced by 65 kg. That translated into an increase in performance. The engine was a 4-liter V12 with a double overhead camshaft for each bank of cylinders and six carburetors. This engine brought the power up to 340 CV at 7,000 rpm. In the Islero S, power increased to 350 CV at 7,500 rpm, along with additional air intakes on the front fenders and a larger hood scoop.
Lifestyle
The rarity of Islero makes it uncommon even in films and magazines of the time, although its appearance in the 1970 film L’Uomo che Uccise Se Stesso, starring Roger Moore, and in the 1969 film with multiple episodes Vedo Nudo by Italian director Dino Risi, were highlights. The model is still elegant by today’s standards. Highly appreciated for both performance and comfort, it is rarely sold, making it a difficult model to find. Additionally, the Islero is often seen at “Concorsi di Eleganza”, where its timeless elegance continues to be celebrated.
