Chassis No. ZA9DU21BXWLA12027
Monterey Edition No. 20/20

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 raging 510 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque—25 horsepower more than the VT while weighing approximately 109 pounds less—a skilled, and brave, driver could rocket from zero to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds before reaching a maximum speed of 191 mph. 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.

American enthusiasts would have to wait until 1998 to experience this uncompromising rear-wheel-drive performance, when a new valve timing management system allowed the SV's 5.7-liter V12 to be homologated for U.S. emissions regulations. Now yielding 530 horsepower, the 1998 Diablo SV also brought Lucas ABS software with larger-diameter 355-mm front and rear brakes, necessitating larger 18-inch wheels front and rear. In August of 1998, additional improvements to the SV platform arrived on U.S. shores in the form of the Monterey Edition, named for the famed Monterey Car Week in Monterey, California, and limited to a mere 20 examples. This U.S.-market-only special edition carried a trio of side intakes ahead of the rear wheels—mirroring the Diablo SE30 and VT Roadster—chromed OZ Racing wheels, a color-matched rear wing, and a selection of bespoke paint colors and leather interiors.

This notable Monterey Edition—limitation no. 20 of 20—is the final example built of its kind, produced in June 1998. The car's Certificate of Vehicle Original Configuration issued by Lamborghini Polo Storico notes that it was finished as it presents today in striking Monterey Blue paintwork with contrasting silver SV graphics, showcasing the dramatic specifications made possible through Lamborghini's expanded color palette for the special edition. The interior was trimmed with blue carpets and Glacier leather upholstery, accented with vibrant yellow piping and stitching, including headrests embroidered with the “SV Monterey Edition” logo. The car was delivered on 3 August 1998 to Prestige Imports in Miami Beach, Florida, with its clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report indicating that the Lamborghini remained in the Sunshine State for two decades; there, it received periodic maintenance from Fields Motorcars Orlando. In 2019, the car joined an Oregon-based collector for a number of years before its recent acquisition by the consignor.

Today, the presentation of chassis 12027 speaks to the exceptional care this car has received from its current caretaker, which included a major engine-out service and cosmetic refurbishment conducted by Wistar Motors of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, in July 2025. Totaling over $50,000 invested, the service addressed an O-ring oil leak with fresh gaskets, cylinder head reconditioning, new clutch assembly, pilot and release bearings, rear main seal, and new NGK spark plugs. Additional mechanical work encompassed rebuilding all four OZ racing wheels with correct hardware and proper clearances, replacing damaged front brake ducting, and rebuilding all four brake calipers while also returning them to their correct black finish. Cosmetically, the Diablo had its improper HID headlights exchanged for OEM-style LED lights and wiring, the Glacier upholstery was reconditioned and its headrest embroidery reupholstered, and the front fascia was renewed to restore its lustrous Monterey Blue finish.

Offered with just 22,591 kilometers (approximately 14,037 miles) shown at the time of cataloging, this is a spectacular opportunity to acquire an investment-grade example of what many consider the ultimate expression of the classic Diablo formula.