Explore an Unheard-Of Gem: Youtuber Shmee150’s Exclusive Walkaround & First Drive Impression of the Ultra-Rare Lamborghini LM002 Estate

The Lamborghini’s first attempt at an SUV was the LM002. Although its journey was not smooth initially, it helped Lamborghini think outside the box. Departing from Lamborghini’s traditional sports car design to a luxury SUV raised eyebrows, but its ruggedness and luxury carved a niche among affluent customers. The SUV took design clues from the Cheetah, a military vehicle that Lamborghini developed and received a lawsuit for (Read about it here). It had a massive V12 engine at the front directly lifted from Countach, delivering an impressive 450 horsepower to all four wheels.

We are well aware that Lamborghini is famous for designing high-end sports cars. However, only a few know that the luxury carmaker also produced an estate model LM Americana edition. This rare vehicle was recently featured in a video by popular YouTuber Shmee 150, who gave a quick walkaround of the car and even a first rive impression. The car featured in the video is located at the Motikon car dealership in Sweden.

The estate car featured in the video originally belonged to the ex-Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah, known for having the world’s most extensive private car collection, and it was later bought by former Volkswagen and BMW CEO Mr. Bernd Pischetsrieder.

5 Things You Should Know about the Lamborghini LM002 Estate

1. There are exactly 3 Lamborghini LM002 Estate cars worldwide. However, the one featured in the video is the only one sanctioned by the factory.
2. Lamborghini officially approved the LM002 Estate, but the Turin-based body shop Diamante redesigned its entire bodywork.
3. The LM002’s new roof added around 500 kilograms (1,102 Pounds)  to its weight, and the SUV already weighed almost 3000 kilograms (6,613 pounds) before the redesign.
4. The car is so rare that finding parts for it is extremely difficult. The Motikon car dealership could only find one set of wheels that fit the vehicle. The entire tire set alone will cost almost 50,000 euros, and only one set is available worldwide.
5. The vehicle has no back or luggage compartment door, as the rear profile is completely sealed.
6. Interestingly, the showcased car had a television set and a DVD player integrated for rear seat occupants. However, we wonder if these features were installed in 1986 since DVDs only became available after 1995.

Shmee 150’s Drive impression of the Lamborghini LM002 Estate

While driving the vehicle, Shmee 150 realized that it was heavy, but the Countach’s powerful V12 engine never made the SUV feel slow. He also mentioned that the LM002 Estate, despite being a long vehicle, never felt heavy while maneuvering. The steering wheel is well within reach of the driver, but the manual gear stick is positioned far away, which takes some time to get used to.

What is so special about the Lamborghini LM002 Estate?

The Lamborghini LM002 Estate is an extremely rare and unique car, with only 3 cars ever produced. It is undoubtedly the most exclusive car based on the LM002. The LM002 Estate has an upgraded interior, aluminum MSW/OZ wheels, and chrome bumpers on the front and rear.

Salvatore Diamante, the owner of a Turin-based body shop, is known for designing this fully closed version of the Lamborghini LM002. Initially, this car model had an open deck at the rear to seat four to six additional men, intended for military purposes.

However, Diamante’s innovation involved raising the roof section, stretching the rear overhang, and installing a U-shaped bench arrangement in the rear, which enabled the LM002 Estate to accommodate up to five individuals seated behind the driver and passenger. This redesign improved the car’s functionality and added a touch of elegance to its appearance.

The LM Americana Estate featured electric controls, while the roof, which was redesigned and constructed, featured a sunroof. Even the dashboard had the provision of being modified at the customer’s request.

What’s under its hood?

The Lamborghini LM002 Estate uses the same 5167cc, V12 motor capable of producing 444bhp at 6,800rpm and 368 Nm of torque at 6,800rpm. All that power is sent to the four wheels via a ZF S5-24/3 5-speed gearbox.

Could You buy one now?

In 2008, a 25-year-old LM002 Diamante Estate was valued at around €150,000. Today, it is still highly valued as an impressive vehicle and we doubt that you will find any authentic model now.