Miura Mania at the 2024 Monterey Auctions

The legendary Lamborghini Miura, a pioneer of the supercar genre that continues to inspire Lamborghini’s lineup to this day, is making a significant splash at the 2024 Monterey Auctions. Known for its groundbreaking design and impressive performance metrics during its production from 1966 to 1973, the Miura has transcended its era to become a coveted collector’s item, fetching seven figures in recent years.

Unprecedented Offering at Monterey

This year’s Monterey Car Week is particularly noteworthy with an unprecedented five Miuras set to cross the auction block—more than ever before witnessed at a single event. These cars span the entire range of Miura models from the original P400 to the more refined P400 S and the high-performance P400 SV, offering a rare glimpse into the evolution of this iconic model.

Spotlight on Individual Models

1968 Miura P400 The 1968 P400, presented by Gooding & Co., is an exceptional model, painted in striking Azzurro Cielo (sky blue). Initially unveiled in its chassis form at the 1965 Turin Auto Show, the Miura stunned attendees even before it was fully realized. The production version debuted at the Geneva Salon in 1966, named after a renowned bullfighter, a theme that has become synonymous with Lamborghini. This particular model, boasting all matching numbers and a comprehensive restoration completed in 2018, carries an estimate of $2.0M to $2.4M.

1969 Miura P400 S Models The P400 S model introduced in 1969 brought significant upgrades including vented brake rotors, power windows, and optional air conditioning. One such example, formerly owned by racer David “Salt” Walther, comes in Verde Miura (green) over blue and has undergone extensive restoration. Another 1969 P400 S, offered by RM Sotheby’s, features practical upgrades like a split sump and enhanced braking system, making it an excellent driver’s car. This yellow over dark gray Miura has been fitted with modifications that enhance its drivability and performance, albeit at a slightly reduced collector value due to deviations from factory specifications.

1970 Miura P400 S Perhaps one of the most intriguing stories belongs to a 1970 P400 S that spent decades in the living room of a New York home, necessitating the demolition of interior walls for its extraction earlier this year. This fully unrestored Luci del Bosco colored Miura remains a pristine example of vintage preservation, with its original paint and interior untouched by time. It is estimated to fetch between $2.0M and $2.5M.

Market Trends and Collectibility

The surge in Miura values reflects a broader trend in the collector car market, where provenance, originality, and historical significance command top dollar. The Miura’s ascent from mid-six-figure valuations fifteen years ago to multi-million-dollar appraisals today highlights its blue-chip status among classic cars. With each model offering its own unique story and state of preservation, the auctions at Monterey are set to be a focal point for collectors seeking to own a piece of automotive history.

Broader Implications

The interest in Miuras at Monterey also signals a potential shift in collector preferences from more modern, tech-heavy supercars back to classic, analog experiences that cars like the Miura offer. This trend is supported by broader consumer interest in authenticity and heritage, values that are manifestly embodied in the Miura.

As the 2024 Monterey Auctions approach, all eyes will be on these iconic Lamborghinis. Each Miura offers a distinct flavor of the model’s rich legacy, promising a thrilling chapter in the continuing story of one of the most celebrated supercars in history. Whether for driving pleasure or as a static display of art, the Lamborghini Miura continues to captivate and command attention, ensuring its place in the pantheon of automotive legends.