Veneno is Spanish for 'poison', a fitting name for a hypercar that looks as dangerous as it drives. Drawing inspiration from a legendary fighting bull that infamously gored a matador in 1914, the Lamborghini Veneno commands both fear and admiration. Based on the iconic Aventador, the Veneno debuted with an astounding $4 million price tag and an ultra-limited production run of just 13 cars. And now, one of these exquisite machines has sold for an eye-watering $6 million, setting a new record for online auto auctions.
The Veneno was unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show to celebrate Lamborghini’s 50th anniversary, immediately capturing the world’s attention. With its fighter jet aesthetics, extreme aerodynamic contours, and a plethora of race-inspired features, this hypercar is a true masterpiece. Those sharp aero appendages are not just for show; the pushrod suspension system and ultra-sticky tires enable the Veneno to achieve a mind-blowing 1.41G in corners. Underneath the striking bodywork lies a 740hp, 6.5-liter V-12 engine that rockets the Veneno from 0 to 60 mph in under three seconds, eventually hitting a top speed of 221 mph.
2024/06/SBXVeneno001-1.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=crop&h=427&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=640" alt="lamborghini veneno front">Of the 13 Venenos, Lamborghini produced four coupes and nine roadsters. The roadster variant, introduced in 2014, made its debut aboard an Italian Navy aircraft carrier—a stage befitting such a dramatic entrance. The Veneno Roadster sold this week is reportedly the second one ever made, sporting a stunning matte black exterior paired with a vivid green and black leather interior. Originally owned by a member of the House of Saud, this masterpiece initially failed to sell at a previous auction despite a $4.34 million bid. A seasoned dealer then listed it for $9.5 million.
This record-breaking sale took place in Dubai, facilitated by SBX Cars—a new online auction platform founded by Alexandra Hirschi, also known as 'Supercar Blondie'. Although the Veneno didn’t meet its reserve price during the initial online bidding, it sold promptly afterward. This practice of post-auction sales is common and often leads to significant transactions, as evidenced by this jaw-dropping $6 million deal. The previous record was held by a $5.36 million LaFerrari Aperta sold on Bring a Trailer, which the Veneno surpassed by nearly $700,000.
Remarkably, this astronomical price isn’t the highest ever paid for a Veneno. That accolade belongs to another Veneno Roadster, which Bonhams sold for approximately $8 million back in 2019. It’s safe to say that the value of these hyper-limited Lamborghinis is only trending upward. Case in point: an even rarer Veneno coupe with a mere 130 miles on its odometer is set to go under the hammer soon, promising yet another record-breaking spectacle from SBX Cars.
The Lamborghini Veneno is more than just a car; it’s a milestone in automotive history. With its lethal combination of unparalleled design, raw power, and extreme rarity, it’s no wonder this machine continues to capture hearts and break records. For enthusiasts and collectors alike, the Veneno remains an undeniable icon—one whose legacy is as immortal as its namesake bull.
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