A little over 60 years ago, Lamborghini unveiled the 400 GT at the Geneva Motor Show—a decisive step in the development of the young company and its grand touring model series. Based on the 350 GT, the 400 GT combined greater power with increased interior space and enhanced comfort, thereby solidifying Lamborghini’s position in international markets.
Elegance and Speed
“With the 400 GT, Lamborghini wrote an important chapter in its corporate history,” says Stephan Winkelmann, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. “It was the evolution of our first GT and our first true 2+2 model. It combined performance, elegance, and comfort in a new interpretation of the grand touring concept. Its significance extends beyond the vehicle itself, as it helped establish an approach to the customer experience that remains at the heart of Lamborghini to this day: creating cars that combine exceptional performance with an emotional and captivating driving experience.”
The model, unveiled in March 1966, retained the elegant character of its predecessor while featuring a redesigned body. It offered seating for two passengers in the rear, more headroom, and a larger trunk. The result was an even more versatile Gran Turismo that ensured a high level of comfort even on long trips.
At the same time, the 400 GT represented a significant technical advancement. The V12 engine’s displacement increased to nearly four liters, delivering 320 PS and offering higher torque. A new transmission manufactured in-house by Lamborghini and a revised rear suspension further improved driving dynamics. Over the following decades, the V12 powertrain evolved into one of the most distinctive technical hallmarks of the Lamborghini brand.
Classic GT
The 400 GT contributed to Lamborghini’s growing international reputation, attracting customers from the worlds of entertainment, culture, and the jet set, and was also featured in films of that era. The model is also associated with the music world: On January 30, 1969—the day the Beatles gave their final public live performance on the roof of the Apple Corps headquarters—a Rosso Alfa (red) model with a black interior was parked on Savile Row in London.
Today, 400 GTs can be found in major collections around the globe. Many of these cars are still actively driven and showcased to a wide audience at international concours d’élégance and prestigious classic car events. In addition, Lamborghini Polo Storico supports the preservation of these vehicles through archival research, certification, and restoration. In this way, the company helps owners preserve the authenticity, craftsmanship, and historic identity of the vehicles for future generations.
“The 400 GT is one of the Lamborghini models that best embodies our grand touring heritage,” says Giuliano Cassataro, Head of After Sales at Automobili Lamborghini. “Many examples still exist worldwide, are driven, and their stories continue to evolve thanks to the passion of their owners. For Polo Storico, caring for these vehicles means researching their individual histories in detail, helping to preserve their authenticity, and providing the knowledge and expertise necessary for their restoration and certification.”
Lamborghini 400 GT: Technical Specifications (1965–1968)
- Engine type: 4.0 L (3,929 cc) 60° V12
- Bore × stroke: 82 mm × 62 mm
- Valve train: Two overhead camshafts per cylinder bank, 2 valves per cylinder
- Fuel system: 6 Weber 40 DCOE twin carburetors
- Maximum torque: 276 lb-ft (374 Nm) at 4,500 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission
