Lamborghini Diablo History: From Hellfire to Supercar Glory

Lamborghini Diablo History: From Hellfire to Supercar Glory

Diablo VT 6.0/SE

blue 2001 diablo vt 6.0
2001 Lamborghini Diablo VT 6.0
Source: Mecum Auctions

In 1994, Chrysler concluded its involvement in Formula 1 and subsequently sold Lamborghini to an Indonesian group. However, by 1998, Audi AG assumed control of Lamborghini from its Southeast Asian owners, MyCom and V’Power. With the upcoming development of the Murciélago, Audi embarked on a mission to contemporize and elevate the Diablo. Leading this revitalization was Lamborghini’s chief designer at the time, Luc Donckerwolke. Under his guidance, the VT 6.0 underwent substantial aesthetic transformations, marking a significant departure from its predecessor both in its interior and exterior design.

Source: Mecum Auctions

The VT 6.0 distinguished itself from its predecessors through a revamped exterior. A fresh front fascia took center stage, boasting two prominent air intakes that would later become a hallmark of the Murciélago. Notable changes included a smoothed and reworked air dam, nose panel, and wings. The indicators were enlarged and repositioned, while the small air inlets atop the wings were omitted. The rear maintained a familiar appearance, yet the taillight surrounds adopted a body-colored hue instead of transparent red or black. The lamp arrangement mirrored that of the track-oriented GT variant. The VT 6.0 rode on aluminum 18-inch OZ wheels with a distinctive 5-hole “phone dial” design, reminiscent of the later Countach models. Interior refinements encompassed enhanced air-conditioning, as well as seat and pedal alignment adjustments.

center console of a lamborghini diablo
Source: Mecum Auctions

Towards the end of the Diablo’s production run, Lamborghini introduced the limited time Diablo Diablo VT 6.0 SE. This model offered a limited spectrum of two captivating colors, this exclusive model featured the sunrise-inspired gold metallic “Oro Elios” and the mesmerizing color-shifting bronze/maroon “Marrone Eklipsis,” representing sunset. Key upgrades included a new magnesium intake manifold and a refined short-gear transmission. Special upholstery, “Lamborghini” badged brake calipers, comprehensive road map software in the navigation system, and elevated carbon fiber interior trim adorned the vehicle. Despite retaining the power output of the Diablo VT 6.0, production was limited to an exclusive 42 units.

yellow lamborghini diablo 6.0 model
Lamborghini Diablo VT 6.0
Source: Lamborghini Media Center

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