Unleash Luxury: The Sultan of Brunei's One-of-a-Kind Lamborghini LM002 Wagon Hits the Auction Block
In a rare occasion for car enthusiasts and collectors alike, the automotive community is buzzing with excitement as the Sultan of Brunei's unique Lamborghini LM002 Wagon comes up for sale. Known for his extravagant collection of luxurious and exotic cars, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah worked with renowned coachbuilder Salvatore Diamante to create a custom version of the already striking 1986 Lamborghini LM002. Unlike its peers, which took the form of rugged SUVs, this distinctive model is a closed wagon, combining luxury and power that was custom-built for royalty.
The Lamborghini LM002 is often hailed as the true pioneer of luxury SUVs, and this rare variant showcases the eclectic taste of its first owner. This one-of-a-kind vehicle boasts the iconic 5.2-liter V12 engine, delivering an exhilarating 444 horsepower. Captivating and commanding in presence, this specific model features modifications that set it apart from the rest of the LM002s produced between 1986 and 1993. With only three ever made, the other two remain a mystery, making this car all the more enticing to collectors around the world.
The vehicle recently surfaced on SBX Cars' auction platform, and industry insiders are watching closely to see how much the market is willing to pay for a true gem of automotive history. Popularly referred to as the "Rambo Lambo," this LM002 mangled the line between rugged duty and high-end luxury. Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah himself only racked up approximately 1,100 miles on the odometer before selling it off to former Volkswagen and BMW CEO Bernd Pischetsrieder - a sequence of ownership that encapsulates the car's elite status.
Exterior and Interior Transformations
One cannot overlook the breathtaking modifications done to make this LM002 Wagon the collector's dream it is today. The exterior remains unmistakably Lamborghini with its boxy silhouette, yet it has been finely tuned to reflect the Sultan's needs. Sporting a raised roofline to help navigate its spacious cabin, the vehicle features an Argento Metallizzato paint finish, though some minor blemishes remain. Nevertheless, it is a sight to behold, drawing admiration from those who appreciate its unique design.
Step inside the Lamborghini LM002 Wagon, and you're immediately hit with high levels of customization. One element that stands out is the lavish second row fitted with a center console housing a vintage TV and VCR, adding a retro charm that resonates, especially with avid collectors. As if that wasn't enough, the once-empty cargo area has given way to a U-shaped bench surrounded by speakers—an unconventional yet not entirely surprising touch reflecting the extravagant lifestyle of the Sultan of Brunei.
Vehicle Performance and Specifications
Beyond its captivating design and history, the car boasts impressive performance stats that serve as a reminder of why Lamborghini remains a heavyweight in the automotive world. Equipped with the original 5.2-liter V12 engine, the LM002 Wagon provides ample power, with the capability of reaching 0-60 mph in a swift 7.7 seconds. Paired with a five-speed manual transmission and all-wheel drive, it enables this beast to reach top speeds of 130 mph—a testament to its formidable engineering.
Admittedly, this nearly four-decade-old Italian marvel does come with its imperfections, including scuffs on the leather seats and a few bubbles in the paint. However, a new set of tires will be included in the sale along with an extensive service history that reveals just how well this car has been maintained. With only 6,450 miles on the clock, it feels almost brand new, reconfirming its desirability to collectors and enthusiasts alike.
A Journey of Prestige and Power
But it's not just the car's features that weave a compelling narrative. The LM002's journey took an unexpected turn after leaving the Sultan’s collection. After the Sultan's brief ownership, the car made its way to Germany and was purchased by Pischetsrieder before finding a new home in Sweden, where it was utilized by a young mother—an image that echoes extravagance mixed with down-to-earth practicality. This historical tapestry adds to the allure of the LM002 Wagon, transforming it from mere automotive machinery into a storied icon of luxury.
As the auction approaches, many enthusiasts find themselves reflecting on the significance of this vehicle. Not only does the LM002 Wagon stand out as a masterpiece created by one of luxury's earliest pioneers, but it also represents a cultural moment in automotive history. Whether you're a collector or simply an admirer, this unique vehicle beckons, promising the opportunity to own a piece of craftsmanship fitting for royalty.
If this extravagant LM002 Wagon resonates with your spirit of luxury, mark your calendars for the bidding start date on August 7 at SBX Cars. Get ready to write a new chapter in automotive history with possibly one of the most unique vehicles that the Sultan of Brunei has ever laid eyes on.