The Lamborghini 350 GT, produced between 1964 and 1967, represents a pivotal moment in the history of the Italian automaker. It was Lamborghini’s first production model, and crucially, the car that established the company as a serious competitor to Ferrari. Built on a tubular chassis designed by Gian Paolo Dallara, the 350 GT aimed to combine grand touring comfort with high performance. The model served as the foundation for all subsequent Lamborghini V12s, and approximately 120 examples were produced during its relatively short production run. It was a direct response to Enzo Ferrari’s perceived snub of Ferruccio Lamborghini, and a statement of intent to build a superior grand touring automobile.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lamborghini |
| Model | 350 GT |
| Generation | 350 GT |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V12 (280 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1964 |
| End of production | 1967 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 16-18 l/100 km (14.7 – 13.1 US mpg, 17.7 – 15.7 UK mpg, 6.3 – 5.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.3 kg/Hp, 233.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 270.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 280 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 325 Nm @ 4500 rpm (239.71 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Lamborghini V12 |
| Engine displacement | 3464 cm3 (211.39 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 62 mm (2.44 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 14 l (14.79 US qt | 12.32 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 15 l (15.85 US qt | 13.2 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 250 l (8.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4460 mm (175.59 in.) |
| Width | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Height | 1230 mm (48.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2550 mm (100.39 in.) |
| Front track | 1380 mm (54.33 in.) |
| Rear track | 1380 mm (54.33 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Disc, 280 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 275 mm |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 350 GT is its 3.5-liter V12 engine, designated as the Lamborghini V12. This engine, producing 280 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 240 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm, was entirely designed and built in-house by Lamborghini. It featured a 60-degree V-angle, a relatively narrow angle that contributed to the engine’s smoothness. The engine utilized a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design per cylinder bank, operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel was delivered via three twin-choke Weber 46 IDA carburetors, a common setup for high-performance engines of the era. The engine’s block and cylinder heads were constructed from aluminum alloy, helping to reduce weight. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the chassis, driving the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. This transmission was sourced from Colotti, a specialist gearbox manufacturer.
Driving Characteristics
The 350 GT offered a driving experience that was both refined and exhilarating for its time. The 280 horsepower V12 provided ample power for spirited driving, and the car could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.5 seconds, reaching a top speed of 155 mph. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to fully exploit the engine’s powerband. The car’s relatively light weight (around 2,645 lbs) contributed to its nimble handling. However, the steering, while direct, could be heavy at low speeds. The suspension, while independent on all four wheels, was tuned for grand touring comfort rather than outright track performance. Compared to later Lamborghini models like the Miura, the 350 GT prioritized usability and comfort over raw performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 350 GT was a relatively well-equipped car for its time, although options were limited. Standard features included leather upholstery, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and a comprehensive instrument panel. The interior was designed to be luxurious and comfortable, reflecting the car’s grand touring aspirations. Optional extras included air conditioning, a radio, and power windows. The exterior was typically finished in a vibrant color, with many examples painted in shades of red or blue. The car’s bodywork was crafted from steel, with aluminum used for certain panels to reduce weight.
Chassis & Braking
The 350 GT’s chassis was a tubular steel space frame, designed by Gian Paolo Dallara. This provided a strong and lightweight foundation for the car. The suspension featured independent coil springs and transverse stabilizer bars on both the front and rear axles. Braking was provided by disc brakes on all four wheels, although the rear discs were slightly smaller than the front. The steering was a worm-reduction unit, providing direct but somewhat heavy steering feel. The car rode on 6.5J x 15 inch wheels, typically fitted with Pirelli Cinturato tires.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lamborghini 350 GT was well-received by critics and enthusiasts alike. It was praised for its stunning design, powerful engine, and refined driving experience. It was seen as a worthy competitor to Ferrari’s 250 GT models. However, the 350 GT was also criticized for its relatively high price and limited availability. Compared to the later 400 GT, the 350 GT was considered to be more focused and engaging to drive. Fuel economy, unsurprisingly, was poor, averaging around 14.7-13.1 mpg. Reliability was generally good, although maintenance costs were high due to the car’s complex engine and sophisticated components.
Legacy
The Lamborghini 350 GT holds a significant place in automotive history as the first production Lamborghini. It established the company’s reputation for building high-performance, luxurious grand touring cars. The V12 engine developed for the 350 GT would go on to power many subsequent Lamborghini models, including the iconic Miura and Countach. Today, the 350 GT is a highly sought-after collectible car, with values continuing to rise. Well-maintained examples are prized for their rarity, historical significance, and stunning design. The powertrain, while requiring diligent maintenance, is generally considered robust when properly cared for, and parts availability, while not abundant, is sufficient to keep these cars on the road.
