We would like to think that the marketing department at the fledgling Automobili Lamborghini had a hand in selecting the color combination for this Islero S, but we aren't really sure if they had a marketing department at this point, having sold only a couple hundred cars. Either way, it sends a message to Modena in no uncertain terms; Sr. Lamborghini was displeased with Ferrari road cars and was out to sell more competent alternatives.

Interestingly, the Islero is no wild departure from the 350GT that got Lamborghini's feet off the ground. No longer produced by Touring like the 400GT and 350GT before it, the Islero was constructed by Carrozzeria Marazzi following the bankruptcy of Touring. The resulting Lamborghini was a 350GT underneath, featuring its ZF 5-speed manual transmission, assisted Girling disc brakes, and Pirelli tires. Unequal front double wishbones and double wishbones in the rear with anti-squat design comprised the suspension, which attached to a rigid chassis, designed by Gianpaolo Dallara to utilize square tubing. Power was up on the S model - differentiated by its hood scoop, among other subtle cues - to a healthy 350hp, good for 161mph on the open road.

Year: 1969
Model:  Lamborghini Islero S
Engine: 3.9L V12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage:  N/A
Price: $425,000
Location: Lynnwood, WA

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1969 Lamborghini Islero S

1969 Lamborghini Islero V12 GT "S" Series finished in Red over Tan leather interior.

Chassis number 6531, this Islero is 1 of ONLY 100 "S" Series produced worldwide and the 54th unit built.

This "S" variant Islero features a higher horsepower MATCHING NUMBERS V12 motor that increased horsepower to 350, larger disc brakes, reversed rear suspension, updated dashboard/interior, power windows, updated brightwork and trim pieces on the hood/fenders, and updated round side marker lights.
Recipient of a no expense spared extensive cosmetic and mechanical restoration completed by Lamborghini specialist Gary Bobileff of San Diego in the OEM specifications.
The car has covered less than 400 km (249 miles) since the mechanical rebuild, and is beautiful overall condition.
Coming to us with 37,270 miles (59,981 kilometers showing on the odometer).
The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering 2018 "Best of Show" Participant. Displayed for the 50th anniversary of the Lamborghini Espada and Islero. Promotional material included with sale.
2018 Quail "Best of Show" Participant.
Five speed manual transmission.
Four-wheel independent suspension.
Coil springs.
Anti-roll bars.
Four wheel hydraulic disc brakes. 
Beautiful tan leather interior, woodgrain interior trim including steering wheel and power windows.
Prominently displaying the original Marazzi production sequence tag of 25179 in the engine bay as well as the chassis plate & VIN tag on the dashboard. 
Included with the car is an original sales brochure, owner's manual, and restoration records.
Service records available upon request. 

We won't attempt an assessment of the condition of this machine other than to say that the seat leather looks to be in great shape, and that the restoration work shows very well in photographs. These sorts of transactions require a bit more diligence and inspection, so we'll leave that up to prospective buyers.

It's said that Ferruccio Lamborghini himself drove an Islero during their time - a high compliment in our books. We are happy to go by the recommendation of a man who successfully challenged Enzo Ferrari at his own game. In the case of the Islero, we would say that he defeated Ferrari - never before have we been so taken aback by the long and low design of a GT. We're sort of surprised that Mario Marazzi, the designer, didn't go on to have a successful design career. Put another way, this Islero S is a great opportunity to support an unsung hero of the automotive design world!

-Graham