The 2024 Salon Privé Concours d’Elegance at Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, UK, was a memorable event for car lovers and restoration enthusiasts alike. Among the meticulously restored classic cars and high-end supercars, one vehicle captured everyone’s attention—a rough, pre-restoration Lamborghini Diablo S. Displayed by Simon Furlonger Cars, this iconic 1990s supercar looked like something straight out of a Mad Max movie, with its stripped-down, rugged appearance contrasting sharply with the sleek, polished vehicles around it.
Simon Furlonger Mad Max-Style Lamborghini Diablo In Need Of Serious Restoration
Image source: simonfurlongercars / Instagram
The Lamborghini Diablo, produced from 1990 to 2001, was a game-changer in the world of supercars. When it first came out, it was the fastest production car globally, capable of reaching speeds up to 202 mph (325 km/h). Equipped with a 5.7-liter V12 engine producing 485 horsepower, the Diablo could go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. But the Diablo on display at Salon Privé was far from this peak performance.
The car had been fully stripped down, exposing its steel space frame—a design known for its durability but also for its tendency to corrode when exposed. The panels had been removed to reveal the extent of the damage and corrosion that had developed over time, a common issue with these cars. Remarkably, this particular Diablo was fully functional and road-legal up until last year, passing its MOT (Ministry of Transport test) without any issues. However, beneath its outer shell, there were signs of wear and tear that needed serious attention.
The Tough Challenge of Restoring Simon Furlonger Mad Max-Style Lamborghini Diablo
Restoring a Lamborghini Diablo S is no simple task. Beyond just fixing the exterior, it involves a comprehensive overhaul of the car’s complex systems, including the engine, cooling mechanisms, and suspension. The process requires access to original parts and detailed manuals, making it both a time-consuming and expensive endeavor.
Simon Furlonger, a well-known figure in the classic car restoration world, especially for Ferraris and Lamborghinis, has taken on this challenge. His team will not only restore the Diablo S to its former glory but will also give it the Furlonger ‘S’ comprehensive upgrade package. This package includes a new lightweight performance exhaust system with upgraded manifolds, an upgraded external lighting system that retains the original lenses, remote central locking with welcome home lighting, remote door lighting, electric power steering for early models, 18-inch wheels with larger discs and calipers, a new suspension and lifting system, a fully retrimmed interior with extensive soundproofing, and an upgraded audio and media system featuring Apple CarPlay.
Salon Privé: A Stage for Excellence
Salon Privé is a prestigious annual event that showcases a diverse range of classic and modern cars from around the world. The 2024 event featured 76 cars competing for various awards, attracting participants from both the UK and overseas. Lamborghini was well-represented, with standout models like the Miura SVJ and the Huracan Tecnica on display. The highlight of the event was the Duke of Marlborough Award, which went to a 1993 Lamborghini Diablo owned by Lars Nielsen, emphasizing the enduring appeal of these vehicles.
The Future of the Simon Furlonger Mad Max-Style Lamborghini Diablo
As the restoration of this Diablo S moves forward, excitement builds among car enthusiasts who are eager to see it back on the road. Transforming this Mad Max-style relic into a fully restored, high-performance supercar will be a testament to the skill and dedication of Simon Furlonger and his team. The upgraded features will not only bring modern conveniences to this classic vehicle but also ensure it performs at its best, blending the old with the new.
The story of this Lamborghini Diablo S is one of transformation—from a battle-worn, neglected car to a stunning example of automotive excellence. As we await the completion of the restoration, we are reminded of the Diablo’s timeless allure and the passion it inspires in those dedicated to restoring these incredible machines. This project, once finished, will not only revive a piece of automotive history but also celebrate the craftsmanship and engineering that make Lamborghini so iconic.
Simon Furlonger Mad Max-Style Lamborghini Diablo Image Gallery
