1971 Lamborghini Miura SV: The Birth of the Mid-Engine Supercar

Before the Lamborghini Miura, high-performance grand tourers placed their engines in front of the driver. Young Lamborghini engineers Gian Paolo Dallara, Paolo Stanzani, and test driver Bob Wallace worked after hours to design a transverse mid-engine chassis inspired by the Ford GT40.

Wrapped in Marcello Gandini's timeless Bertone bodywork, the Miura debuted at the 1966 Geneva Salon and overnight rendered front-engine Ferraris obsolete.

The Ultimate Miura: The SV

The 1971 Miura SV (Spinto Veloce) fixed the earlier cars' high-speed aerodynamic lift and oiling quirks:

• Split Sump: Separated engine and gearbox lubrication to prevent metal shavings from entering the engine.
• Power: 3.9-liter 60° V12 producing 385 HP at 7,850 rpm.
• Widened Rear Fenders: Accommodated 9-inch wide rear Campagnolo wheels.
• Headlight Eyelashes Removed: Giving the front end a clean, purposeful look.

The Miura SV was the car that established Lamborghini as a permanent titan of exotic performance.