In a bid to reignite sales, Lamborghini prioritized performance. Acquired by Chrysler in 1987, the Italian brand’s sales suffered in a weak post-crash economy.
Chrysler utilized Lamborghini’s expertise for the Dodge Viper’s V10 but sold the brand in 1993.
Under new ownership, even the advanced AWD Diablo struggled, and the base RWD model flopped. Lamborghini needed a plan to revive the base Diablo and recapture its performance focus.
The Diablo SV, named after the legendary Miura SV, wasn’t just another iteration. It was a performance-focused machine designed to recapture the hearts of driving enthusiasts.
Boasting a more aggressive exterior and a significant power boost, the SV offered an enticing proposition: superior performance at a surprisingly competitive price.
This strategic move, though effectively rendering the base Diablo obsolete, proved to be a sales masterstroke. In the late 1990s, Lamborghini took the wraps off a new variant of their Diablo aimed at reigniting passion for the mid-engine marvel.
The Diablo SV revealed at the 1995 Geneva Motor Show, was a back-to-basics approach that prioritized performance over the growing trend of luxurious, all-wheel-drive supercars.
Surprisingly, the SV also held the distinction of being the most affordable Lamborghini in the lineup at the time. This came after a period of shifting ownership for the Italian brand.
Acquired by Chrysler in 1987, Lamborghini benefitted from engineering expertise that would influence the Dodge Viper’s V10 engine.
However, the economic downturn that followed the 1987 stock market crash dampened sales of exotic cars, including the Diablo. Even the introduction of a refined, all-wheel-drive Diablo failed to capture significant customer interest.
Stepping away from the all-wheel-drive dominance of the Diablo VT, the SV took a purist approach. Borrowing the rear-wheel-drive layout and platform of the standard Diablo, it prioritized a lightweight feel and driver engagement.
This focus on agility was complemented by a strengthened chassis and larger Brembo brakes to handle the increased performance. Just like its predecessors, the SV housed the iconic, mid-mounted 60-degree V12 engine designed by Giotto Bizzarrini.
A legend among driving enthusiasts, the Lamborghini Diablo SV ruled the streets in the late 1990s. Boasting a ferocious reputation alongside its impressive performance, the SV was a powerful machine that demanded respect.