1998 Lamborghini Diablo SV
Lot 165 | Global Icons: Europe Online
Chassis No. ZA9DE21A0WLA12002
In 1995, Lamborghini introduced the SV (Sport Veloce) variant as a purist's counterpart to the all-wheel-drive VT model. While the VT focused on enhanced handling through its advanced Viscous Traction four-wheel-drive system, the lighter SV maintained the visceral driving experience of channeling all its power to the rear wheels. With its 5.7-liter mid-mounted V12 producing a thunderous 510 CV and 580 Nm of torque—25 CV more than the VT while weighing approximately 49 kg less—a skilled, and brave, driver could rocket from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds before reaching a maximum speed of 320 km/h. To distinguish this high-performance variant, Lamborghini fitted an adjustable rear wing, redesigned engine cover with roof-mounted cooling scoops, prominent “SV” decals, and larger front brakes to handle the increased power output.
This particular left-hand drive, European-market Diablo SV was originally specified in striking Blu Le Mans over an Alcantara interior with Arancio (Orange) piping and stitching. The original warranty and maintenance booklet records that chassis WLA12002 was delivered new via Roland Affolter's Garage R. Affolter on 10 May 1999 to its first owner, Mr. Gérard Chouraqui of Blonay. Not long after delivery, the car returned to Affolter for conversion to “Evolution” specifications, including a revised front fascia with rounded, fixed headlamps, sculpted front and rear bumpers, and a flush rear wing, along with a repaint in Titanium. Subsequent stamps in the service booklet show that the Lamborghini continued to receive routine maintenance from Affolter in the years that followed, in June 1999 at 5,553 km and again in June 2000 at 27,830 km. Research compiled by marque historian Olivier Nameche shows that chassis WLA12002 was offered for sale by Affolter later that year in December 2000.
Further service stamps suggest that the Lamborghini remained in Switzerland, receiving service from Racing Car S.A. in Grancia in 2002 at 27,372 km, and later at Lamborghini St. Gallen Hirsch AG in 2018 at 72,078 km. The final stamp in the service booklet records a valve adjustment in February 2020 at 77,276 km. More recently, the Diablo has been comprehensively restored back to its original SV configuration, with the Affolter “Evolution” alterations carefully reversed and the car renewed in its factory-correct Blu Le Mans livery. The consigning Broad Arrow Car Specialist reports that the paintwork presents as absolutely flawless, also noting that everything functions exactly as it should, and that it is an exceptionally impressive car to drive.
While any Diablo SV is collectible in its own right, chassis WLA12002 with its desirable factory livery and exceptional recent restoration almost certainly presents an unrepeatable opportunity to enjoy and drive the most extraordinary hypercar of its era, in its purest and most desirable form.
PREVIEW DETAILS:
Please contact a Broad Arrow specialist to arrange a viewing in person prior to the auction.
SALE LOCATION:
Switzerland
BUYER'S PREMIUM:
10% + VAT on the Hammer Price
TITLE/REGISTRATION DOCUMENTS:
Swiss Carte Grise
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
VAT Qualifying: This Lot is subject to VAT on the full purchase price (both the Hammer Price and the Buyer's Premium).
POST-AUCTION REMOVAL AND STORAGE:
Following receipt of payment, collection can be arranged by appointment only from Thörishaus, Switzerland with 24 hours' notice. Storage charges of CHF 30.00 + VAT per lot per day will apply from Saturday, 31st January 2026.