The practical Lamborghini shopper has no use for something as mild as the US-spec Tipo P111 P250 Urraco. In his eyes, $119,000 buys a 3-4 nice Lotus Elises, and the math tracks. Both are mid-engined, make around 180hp, and proclaim their sporting intentions unabashedly. Only one is really worth driving around a racetrack in anger. In fact, that same money would buy a reliable Gallardo, which would show up the whole lot at the track, and would make for a more comfortable weekend getaway machine to boot.

And yet, here we are, suggesting that you take a real look at one of 21 Urracos built for the US market. The seriously (86x53mm) over-square 2.5L V8 - a Paolo Stanzani creation - is derated from 220hp to a relatively wheezy 180hp. If our Milano Verde is any indication of how enjoyable 180 Italian horsepower can be, we'd be prepared for a pleasant surprise in the acceleration department. US-spec bumpers hardly detract from the Gandini wedge, and originality considerations aside, we'd leave them be regardless.

Year: 1975
Model:  Lamborghini Urraco P250 Tipo P111
Engine: 2.5L V8
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage:  38,804mi
Price: $119,000
Location: Lynnwood, WA

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We have it on good authority that the Stanzani V8s are difficult to rebuild. As in, a mechanic who regularly builds Colombo V12s and Lancia Aurelia V6s informed us that it takes a true nut to keep one on the road. So, count us in. Can't be the bad?

We've made it fairly clear that we prefer these to the contemporary Ferrari Dino 308 in spite of the dearer pricing. The design has more room to spread out, and while the Ferrari V8 and chassis would, in all likelihood, make for a better driving experience, we can't help but imagine how much cooler it would be to open the garage to reveal one of these low-slung wedges. This might be a good one to buy.

-Graham