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Lamborghini resurrects ’72 Miura SVR

Iconic supercar restored by Raging Bull's historic division


The Lamborghini Miura is one of the most iconic supercars ever built – heck, it arguably defines the genre. Just 763 were made, but the regular Miura isn't the most exclusive example of the breed.

That honour belongs to the Miura SVR given a new lease on life by the 'Polo Storico' division at Lamborghini.

Created as a race evolution of the super-exclusive Miura SV Jota/SVJ, the SVR has a cult following thanks to its role in the Japanese manga "Circuit Wolf", making it highly sought after by model car collectors.

Just one of them was ever made. It was sold to a Japanese customer, where it served as the model for the comic book and Kyosho toy version.

The sole Miura SVR started its life as a 'regular' Miura S, wearing chassis number 3781, engine number 2511 and body number 383. It was originally finished in Verde Miura (green) with a black interior.

As an 'S', this Miura changed hands eight times in Italy, before being bought in 1974 by German native Heinz Straber, who brought it home to Sant' Agata for the SVR conversion.

Lamborghini ended up building a limited number of Miura SV Jotas – and one SVR – after the first SV Jota, developed by test driver Bob Wallace, was lost in an accident.

The original conversion to SVR specification took 18 months of work and, according to Lamborghini, the modern restoration took 19 months.

"[It] required a different approach to the way we normally work," said Paolo Gabrielli, head of Lamborghini Polo Storico.

"The original production sheet wasn’t of much help, as we relied mostly on the specifications from the 1974 modifications. The challenge for the Polo Storico team was even more daunting as the car arrived in Sant’Agata in pieces, although the parts were all there, and with considerable modifications."

"The only variations on the original specifications were the addition of 4-point safety belts, more supportive seats and a removable roll bar. These were expressly requested by the customer and are intended to improve safety during the car’s racetrack exhibitions," he added.

Engine and performance specifications weren't detailed by the Italian marque, but we do know the Miura SV Jota (and likely the SVR too) was powered by an upgraded version of the 'standard' Miura's 4.0-litre V12, allegedly tuned to deliver up to 440hp (328kW).

Reduced weight compared to the base car no doubt aided the vehicle's performance and dynamics, while the widened wheel and tyre package offer enhanced grip, too.

Lamborghini exhibited the restored Miura SVR at Japan's Nakayama Circuit, befitting of the vehicle's Japanese following.

Head to the gallery section for more images

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