This Rare Lamborghini LM002 from the Sultan of Brunei Will Leave Car Collectors Speechless

In the realm of luxury cars, few collections are as legendary as that of the Sultan of Brunei. Spanning an astonishing 3,000 to 7,000 vehicles at its height, the Sultan’s garage is a veritable paradise for car enthusiasts, housing an impressive array of iconic models from brands such as Ferrari and McLaren. Now, a unique piece of automotive history from this extravagant collection is about to go up for auction: a one-of-a-kind 1986 Lamborghini LM002, transformed into a closed wagon body style at the behest of the Sultan himself.

Originally built between 1986 and 1993, the Lamborghini LM002 is often hailed as the brand's first sport utility vehicle, appealing to the modern-day Urus owners who may not know its story. Featuring a military-derived chassis and the potent 5.2-liter V12 engine from the iconic Countach, the LM002 is more than just an SUV; it is a lavish manifestation of automotive opulence. But the Sultan’s vision carried it to new heights, prompting him to collaborate with renowned coachbuilder Salvatore Diomante to create a more luxurious and spacious wagon version of the LM002. This conversion resulted in a vehicle that straddles the line between utility and elegance, and legend has it that only three such models exist today, with one confirmed to soon be on the market.

A Look at the Lamborghini LM002

The Lamborghini LM002 is truly a marvel of the 1980s—an era known for excess and ambition. It stands out as a bold statement of irrational luxury, built on the foundations of what was initially a canceled military project. These were not your average SUVs; they were behemoths that could tackle rugged terrain while showcasing the refinement of luxury cars.

With a reported horsepower rating of 444 and a top speed boasting a thrilling 130 mph, the LM002 quickly established itself as one of the most powerful production vehicles of its time. Notably, despite weighing more than 6,700 pounds, this beast was equipped with an exquisite interior adorned in leather and wood that was characteristic of Lamborghini's commitment to luxury.

The Sultan's Customization

For the Sultan of Brunei, practicality may have taken a backseat to refinement, as he commissioned modifications to turn his LM002 into a closed wagon style, differentiating it from the original design and emphasizing its luxury. The Sultan’s specific model features a raised roof and a more accessible interior that accommodates passengers with ease. Inside, the vehicle boasts not just luxury but also advanced technology for the time, which includes a center console with a TV, VCR, and even a DVD player! It’s a remarkable balance of practicality and extravagance.

While the exterior is presented in a captivating Argento Metallizzato finish, it does carry signs of its storied past with minor scuffs and bubbles. The interior leather seats show small cracks consistent with their age, yet the overall condition remains strong, suggesting a respectable maintenance history. It’s comforting to know that the vehicle has been reconditioned and is ready for its next chapter.

Its Journey Through Time

The story of this remarkable SUV began in the Sultan's royal garaged, which saw it driven just around a thousand miles before it was sold off after the Sultan's tenure. The vehicle changed hands a few times, ultimately landing in the possession of a Swedish woman who allegedly drove it for the simple purpose of taking her children to school—moments like these remind car enthusiasts of the unique journeys these machines can undergo.

A Collector's Dream

Scheduled for auction on August 7th through SBX Cars, this Lamborghini LM002 offers a unique opportunity for prospective buyers to secure a piece of vehicle history that embodies both luxury and rarity. As one of only a few remaining examples of this customized model, the winning bidder will not just take home an SUV, but a conversation piece—a glimpse into the Sultan’s lavish lifestyle and passion for automotive excellence. With such superb provenance, it’s hard to imagine this LM002 lingering in a garage for long.

In conclusion, while tales of eccentric royal collections evoke intrigue, this Lamborghini LM002 destined for auction serves as a tangible piece of that narrative. Enthusiasts and collectors alike will be captivated by the prospect of owning a car that once vied for space alongside some of the most sensational automobiles in history, crafted for one of the most high-profile owners in the automotive world.