2025 |
Pebble Beach Auctions1998 Lamborghini Diablo SV Monterey Edition
Register to BidEstimate
$425,000 - $525,000
Chassis
ZA9DU21B2WLA12023
Car Highlights
The 18th of 20 Coveted Monterey Editions Built; One of Two in Special-Order Blu Scuro
Unveiled During Monterey Car Week in 1998; The Diablo in Its Purest Form
Displayed Approximately 26,500 Km (16,466 Miles) when Catalogued
Offered with Books, Tools, Workshop Manuals, Luggage, Original Window Sticker and More
Received over $97,000 in Specialist Servicing in 2025
Technical Specs
5,707 CC DOHC V-12 Engine
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection
530 BHP at 7,100 RPM
5-Speed Manual Transaxle
4-Wheel Brembo Cross-Drilled Disc Brakes
4-Wheel Independent-Wishbone Suspension
First Owner (acquired new via Platinum Motors in Santa Ana, California in 1999)
John Wojnar, Ohio (acquired in 2002)
Chris Nelson, Ohio (acquired in 2004)
Current Owner (acquired from the above)
Launched in 1990, the Lamborghini Diablo introduced modern styling, greater refinement, and enhanced performance while staying true to the brand’s V-12 supercar tradition. Over the next decade, the model evolved through increasingly capable variants. Among them, the Super Veloce (SV), introduced in 1995, offered a lighter, sharper-handling, rear-wheel-drive alternative to the more comfort-oriented, all-wheel-drive VT.
For 1998, Lamborghini unveiled an updated SV with variable valve timing for improved emissions and higher output. Its 5.7-liter, naturally aspirated V-12 now produced 510 hp at 7,100 rpm and 446 lbs./ft. of torque at 5,500 rpm, delivered to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transaxle and limited-slip differential. Other refinements included updated ABS, larger brakes with four-piston calipers, 18" wheels, and a four-spoke airbag steering wheel. Capable of 200 mph, and 0–60 mph in a claimed 3.9 seconds, the SV was the most performance-focused Diablo variant.
This 1998 SV is the 18th of just 20 Monterey Editions built exclusively for the US market. Unveiled during Monterey Car Week in 1998, the limited-run model featured a power bump to 530 hp, SE30-style rear intakes, a two-tone interior, special badging, a carbon fiber rear wing and chrome Kinesis wheels.
Documented by the accompanying original window sticker, this Monterey Edition was completed in July 1998 and was the sole example finished in the fantastic color combination of Blu Scuro (Dark Blue), a special-order $15,000 option, over a Champagne leather interior. Other factory options listed on the window sticker include a Monterey Edition shift knob, luggage set, car cover and color-matched rear wing with carbon fiber flap.
Delivered new via Platinum Motors in Santa Ana, California, in February 1999, this Diablo SV remained with a long-term owner from 2004 until its acquisition by the consignor in 2024. Soon after, this Diablo SV was entrusted to noted marque experts Evans Automotive Repair Inc. in Columbus, Ohio, for major servicing.
Completed in January 2025 at a cost of $97,569, the work included an extensive engine-out rebuild with new pistons, valves, bearings, motor mounts, timing belt, tensioners, idlers, water pump, gaskets, and ignition wires. Additional work included refreshing the suspension system, addressing the transmission, and servicing the HVAC and cooling systems.
Presented in well-kept condition, this Diablo SV displayed approximately 26,500 km (16,466 miles) at the time of cataloguing. It is offered with tools, workshop manuals, records dating to 2002 and its original books and window sticker. The Diablo is also accompanied by a CARFAX Vehicle History Report and original accessories, including a cover, charger, luggage and spare parts.
The 18th of Just 20 Monterey Editions – and one of 448 Diablo SVs in total – this freshly serviced example represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most distinctive and desirable variants of Lamborghini’s 1990s flagship.