The current trend in supercar makers adding an SUV to their range is one that is gathering pace. Lamborghini, for example, has famously introduced the Urus to much acclaim, inspiring comments about this being their first foray into the off-road market.

In fact, that is wide as the mark as not only did Lamborghini make tractors – yes, actual farm vehicles – but in the 1970’sit also produced a model as a tender for the US military, which wanted a robust and powerful all-terrain vehicle. That contract went to the Humvee, but not before Lamborghini had pitched its own idea.

Countach Engine

The Italian company originally proposed a vehicle with a Chrysler engine called the Cheetah. This was then developed into the LM002, a truly made vehicle if ever there was one. Powered by the 5.9litre V12 taken straight from the Lamborghini Countach, this sensational 2.7tonne vehicle made its debut in 1986, at the Brussels Motor Show.

With only 328 LM002’s ever built, the one entered or auction at RM Sotheby’s in Monterey, California, is a very special car for collectors of the marque. The LM002 could get to 60mph in around 8 seconds – not ground breaking for a supercar, but for a vehicle of this size quite unique – and with copious torque, could operate in even the most extreme conditions.

Unique Example

This example is signed by the famous Lamborghini test driver, Valentino Balboni, who we reckon had one of the best jobs in the world. It’s also one of only 40 LM002’s with the carburettor version of the engine, and seeing how infrequently these cars come on the market, this is very rare opportunity to buy a pristine edition that has done fewer the 100miles in the past three years.

The sale takes place on 24^th and 25^th of August, so that’s plenty time to find your cheque book and make sure you have between $350,000 and $450,000 ready to buy what is a very desirable and unusual Lamborghini.