Estimate: $120,000-$160,000 US

Sold: $90,750

320bhp, 3,929 cc V12 engine, six Weber carburetors, five-speed manual transmission, four-wheel independent suspension with unequal-length A-arms, coil springs and anti-roll bars, and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes. Wheelbase: 100.4"

The Islero was the ultimate evolution of the first Lamborghini model, the 350 GT, which evolved into the 400 GT and 400 GT 2+2 models. Since Lamborghini’s regular coachbuilder, Carrozzeria Touring, was bankrupt, Ferruccio Lamborghini commissioned Mario Marazzi to design and build a new model, to keep a fast and luxurious 2+2 GT car in the Lamborghini stable. As was Lamborghini tradition, the new car’s name was related to bullfighting and in this case was named for the famous bull that killed the matador Manuel Rodriquez in 1947.

The Islero retained the square tube chassis, wheelbase and inner structure of the 400 GT 2+2, with a wider track to accommodate a set of Campagnolo wheels. Inside, it was fully equipped with luxurious amenities, including full leather upholstery and standard air conditioning, as well as power-assisted windows and steering. Powered by the famous Lamborghini V12 engine mated to a five-speed transmission, the car possessed high performance capabilities that far exceeded most other cars of its era and class. With six Weber dual-choke carburetors feeding its 320 horsepower engine, it reportedly had a top speed of over 150 miles per hour, with the acceleration, handling and braking to match.

Aesthetically, the Islero’s clean styling echoed the Touring-designed 350/400 GT models, and was much more subtle in execution than Bertone’s Espada. It is widely believed that Ferruccio Lamborghini himself greatly influenced the car’s styling, and it was generally considered one of his favorites. Production began in 1968 and continued through 1970, but with only 225 examples built, they were and continue to be very rare and sought-after by enthusiasts. Isleros are, after all, lightweight, fast and well-equipped touring cars, with attractive styling to match.

This particular car is well-known among Lamborghini enthusiasts, as it was presented in several publications, including The Complete Book of Lamborghini by Pete Lyons and the auto editors of Consumer Guide, where it is pictured on page 26, as well as pages 100 through 105. Well-maintained and benefiting from a recent tune-up, it is a wonderful example of Italy’s charging bull.