1969 Lamborghini Islero S

In 1969, Lamborghini improved their 2+2 with numerous changes including a slightly more powerful 350 bhp V12 engine. With many upgrades to the mechanics, aethetics and interior, the Islero S was a much better and was sometimes called the Islero 400 GTS.

Outwardly, the car received slightly flared wheel arhces, an enlarged hood scoop, horizontal side fender vents, 3/4 windows in the doors and two driving lights in the front grill. Inside the new flat dashboard had a functional glove box and rocker switchgear but was less interesting than the early model.

Under the skin a new rear suspension and larger disc brakes were part of the package. The engine sourced bits from the Miura S including its hotter cam and higher compression. This meant 340 to 350 bhp was on tap which was good enough for 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds.

Like the preceding Islero, the S model used a variation of the 400 GT 2+2 square-tube chassis with a wider track to accommodate the Campagnolo wheels. The model was outfitted with leather interior, power steering, air conditioning and power windows.

Sold alongside the Miura S, only 100 examples of the Islero S were made.

In Detail

submitted by	Richard Owen
type	Series Production Car
built at	Italy
body stylist	Mario Marazzi
production	100
price $	$ 20,000
predeccesor	1968 Lamborghini Islero
engine	V12
position	Front, Longitudal
aspiration	Natural
valvetrain	DOHC 2 Valves / Cyl
displacement	3939 cc / 240.4 in³
bore	82 mm / 3.23 in
stroke	62 mm / 2.44 in
compression	9.5:1
power	261.0 kw / 350 bhp
specific output	88.86 bhp per litre
bhp/weight	282.26 bhp per tonne
torque	375 nm / 276.6 ft lbs @ 4500 rpm
body / frame	Steel Body over Steel Tube Chassis
driven wheels	Front Engine / RWD
front tires	VR 205/15
rear tires	VR 205/15
front brakes	Discs
front wheels	F 38.1 x 17.8 cm / 15 x 7 in
rear wheels	R 38.1 x 17.8 cm / 15 x 7 in
steering	ZF Worm & Roller
curb weight	1240 kg / 2734 lbs
wheelbase	2550 mm / 100.4 in
front track	1380 mm / 54.3 in
rear track	1380 mm / 54.3 in
length	4525 mm / 178.1 in
width	1730 mm / 68.1 in
height	1270 mm / 50.0 in
transmission	5-Speed Manual
gear ratios	2.520:1, 1.735:1, 1.225:1, 1.000:1, 0.815:1
final drive	4.50:1
top speed	~265.5 kph / 165 mph
0 – 60 mph	~6.2 seconds

 

 

Auction Sales History

 

 

1969 Lamborghini Islero S 6531 – sold for $401,500 Switzerland-delivery Islero in Red over a light-colored interior. $100,000 restoration by Lamborghini specialist Gary Bobileff. Recent complete rebuild of the matching-numbers engine, gearbox, and rear axle assembly, as well as the brakes and suspension, all completed in 2010, with invoices totaling nearly $45,000 by Bobileff. Covered 20,000 kilometers since the cosmetic restoration and only 108 more since its mechanical rebuild
Auction Source: RM Sotheby’s Monterey 2015

 

 

1969 Lamborghini 400 GT Islero S 6522 – sold for €290,000
The Islero we are offering is a model sold new in the United States. The previous owner had acquired it in 1994 and sold it to the current owner in 2003. This splendid Islero S, painted black, has always been maintained and cherished. The current owner has redone the carburetors, the steering knuckles and replaced the exhaust system (to Ansa). The rear suspension springs have been re-made by a specialist and the brakes are brand new. The interior still has its original leather in parchment beige, with red piping and the headliner is in beige. It is equipped with a rare original sunroof, with manual control, while the tinted windows are electric.
Auction Source: Rétromobile 2015 by Artcurial Motorcars

 

 

1969 Lamborghini Islero S 2+2 Coupe 6662 – sold for $134,750 This 1969 Islero is handsomely finished in grey over red, has travelled just 8,900 miles and benefits from 37 years of single ownership. A rare and very desirable “S” version, it is equipped with air conditioning and recently received an engine rebuild that included the fitment of a new set of piston rings. Offered in very presentable condition throughout, this is an excellent example of a particularly rare and desirable Lamborghini.
Auction Source: 2011 Monterey Auction by RM

 

 

1969 Lamborghini Islero GTS 6432 – sold for €121,625

Sir Roger Moore’s car in the movie The Man Who Haunted Himself. One of 100 Islero GT “S” models and one of only five RHD examples. 38,000 original miles.

Auction Source: 2010 Automobiles of London by RM Auctions