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The Jarama Is Lamborghini’s Forgotten Front-Engine GT

Cameron Eittreim June 14, 2025

The Lamborghini Jarama stands as one of the marque’s most intriguing yet overlooked creations. Nestled between the iconic Miura and the groundbreaking Countach, the Jarama embraced a front-engine GT layout—a rarity for Lamborghini.
While its siblings basked in the limelight, the Jarama quietly carved its own path, appealing to enthusiasts seeking comfort without sacrificing performance.
Despite never achieving superstar status, its blend of Italian flair and grand touring practicality gives it a unique reputation among classic car aficionados.
The Jarama remains a hidden gem, waiting for rediscovery.

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1. Born From the Espada’s Legacy

1. Born From the Espada's Legacy
“A polished Lamborghini Islero strikes a pose, flaunting its sleek lines and gleaming surface under the soft sunlight.” | Image source: google

The Jarama emerged as a successor to the Lamborghini Islero, inheriting much from the renowned Espada.
It sought to harmonize the grand touring luxury of its predecessors with sportier dynamics, creating a bridge between refined comfort and thrilling performance.
This unique blend set the Jarama apart, attracting drivers who craved both elegance and excitement in a single, distinctive package.

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2. Distinctive Front-Engine Layout

2. Distinctive Front-Engine Layout
“A sleek GT car, showcasing an exposed front-engine V12 layout, symbol of power and advanced engineering.” | Image source: google

Unlike most Lamborghinis, the Jarama boasts a front-mounted V12 engine, making it a rarity in the brand’s history.
This configuration aligned it with grand touring rivals like Ferrari’s 365 GT, rather than Lamborghini’s own mid-engine legends.
It offered a unique driving character—blending Italian power with the balanced, refined feel of a classic GT.

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3. Styled by Marcello Gandini

3. Styled by Marcello Gandini
“Marcello Gandini’s iconic Bertone design shines in the sleek contours and vibrant color of the classic Lamborghini Miura.” | Image source: google

The Jarama’s bold lines and muscular stance are the work of Marcello Gandini at Bertone—one of automotive design’s true icons.
While it shares some DNA with Gandini’s celebrated Miura, the Jarama sports a more angular, purposeful appearance.
Its distinctive silhouette set it apart in Lamborghini’s lineup, blending elegance with a touch of avant-garde innovation.

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4. Built for the American Market

4. Built for the American Market
“A gleaming Lamborghini Jarama, an exceptional model of Italian craftsmanship, halting traffic on a bustling US street.” | Image source: google

The Jarama was designed with U.S. regulations in mind, a move that influenced everything from its bumper design to its emissions equipment.
Safety standards and stricter emissions rules of the era shaped its final appearance, making it one of Lamborghini’s most international models—engineered to capture the attention of American enthusiasts.

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5. The 350-Horsepower V12

5. The 350-Horsepower V12
“An impeccably polished Lamborghini Jarama gleaming under the midday sun, radiating unmatched power and elegance.” | Image source: google

At its heart, the Jarama packs a 3.9-liter V12 delivering an impressive 350 horsepower—on par with Ferraris and Maseratis of its era.
This powerhouse enabled thrilling acceleration and a top speed near 160 mph, embodying Lamborghini’s performance ethos.
For full technical details, see the official Lamborghini specs.

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6. A Grand Touring Interior

6. A Grand Touring Interior
“Bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun, a sleek Lamborghini Jarama stands ready, exuding power and elegance.” | Image source: google

Inside, the Jarama offered a luxurious cabin wrapped in fine leather and detailed trim.
Its dashboard featured advanced instrumentation for the era, echoing the sophistication of other high-end GTs.
The combination of comfort and driver-focused design made long journeys both relaxing and engaging—true to the grand touring spirit.

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7. A True 2+2 Coupe

7. A True 2+2 Coupe
“Parked elegantly on cobblestone, the sleek Lambo Jarama commands attention with its mesmerizing blend of classic and modern design.” | Image source: google

The Jarama’s 2+2 seating layout set it apart from most Lamborghinis, offering genuine rear seats.
This practical arrangement made the Jarama more family-friendly, allowing for extra passengers or luggage.
It was a rare combination of Lamborghini performance and everyday usability, appealing to drivers with a taste for both speed and comfort.

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8. Limited Production Numbers

8. Limited Production Numbers
“A sleek Lamborghini Jarama stands proudly, showcasing its polished finish and timeless design on an open road.” | Image source: google

With only 328 units produced between 1970 and 1976, the Jarama is one of Lamborghini’s rarest classics.
Compared to the more numerous Espada or Countach, its scarcity adds to its allure among collectors.
This exclusivity ensures the Jarama remains a truly special find in the world of vintage Italian grand tourers.

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9. The Jarama S Upgrade

9. The Jarama S Upgrade
“A sleek Lamborghini Jarama radiates under the spotlight, displaying its streamlined design and luxurious appeal.” | Image source: google

In 1972, Lamborghini launched the Jarama S (also known as the Jarama GTS), bringing several key upgrades.
Horsepower climbed to 365, thanks to engine tuning improvements, delivering even sharper performance.
Cosmetic updates included new hood vents, revised wheels, and a refreshed interior—further enhancing the Jarama’s blend of luxury and aggressive styling for discerning enthusiasts.

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10. Performance Figures

10. Performance Figures
“An alluring Lamborghini Jarama poised on a smooth, winding street underneath a sunset sky, flashing its irresistible charm.” | Image source: google

The Jarama could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in under 6.5 seconds and reach a top speed of around 160 mph.
These numbers matched or exceeded those of contemporary GT rivals like the Ferrari 365 GT 2+2.
For detailed specs, visit Ultimate Specs.

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11. Unique Pop-Up Headlights

11. Unique Pop-Up Headlights
“A 1970s Lamborghini Jarama showcases its iconic pop-up headlights, encapsulating the unique charm of that era’s car design.” | Image source: google

The Jarama features pop-up headlights, a beloved hallmark of 1970s sports car styling.
Few Lamborghinis embraced this design quirk, making the Jarama especially distinctive within the brand’s history.
These retractable lights add a playful, retro touch—perfectly complementing the car’s bold lines and setting it apart from its siblings.

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12. The Jarama Rally

12. The Jarama Rally
“Feast your eyes on the sleek lines and seductive curves of this classic Lamborghini Jarama, a true epitome of speed and luxury.” | Image source: Wikimedia Commons

A true curiosity, the Jarama Rally was a unique, one-off version crafted for motorsport.
Built by Lamborghini’s own engineers, it featured lightweight bodywork, a roll cage, and rally-tuned suspension.
Though it never saw major competition success, the Jarama Rally stands as a testament to Lamborghini’s ambition to explore new racing frontiers beyond road cars.

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13. Ferruccio Lamborghini’s Favorite

13. Ferruccio Lamborghini's Favorite
“Roaring through a blurry backdrop, the sleek Lamborghini Jarama stands out, a radiant symbol of luxury and power.” | Image source: pexels

It’s often said that Ferruccio Lamborghini personally favored the Jarama above all his creations.
Choosing it as his own daily driver, Ferruccio appreciated its refined mix of comfort and power.
This endorsement speaks volumes about the Jarama’s balanced character—practical enough for everyday use, yet unmistakably thrilling behind the wheel.

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14. Underappreciated Collector’s Car

14. Underappreciated Collector's Car
“Parked majestically under the sparkling city lights, a Lamborghini Jarama boasts its timeless elegance and fire-breathing power.” | Image source: google

While Miuras and Countachs dominate auctions, the Jarama remains underappreciated in collector circles.
Its rarity and unique blend of style and practicality are finally gaining recognition among savvy enthusiasts.
As vintage Lamborghini interest grows, the Jarama’s profile is steadily rising—making it a smart choice for those seeking something truly distinctive.

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15. Mechanical Complexity

15. Mechanical Complexity
“A sleek, polished Lamborghini Jarama gleams under the soft evening light, ready to seize the open road.” | Image source: google

The Jarama is renowned for its mechanical complexity, with intricate V12 engineering and sophisticated suspension systems.
While this makes maintenance a challenge, it also appeals to dedicated enthusiasts who relish hands-on involvement.
For those willing to invest the effort, owning and maintaining a Jarama becomes a deeply rewarding and educational experience.

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16. The Jarama’s Weight Problem

16. The Jarama's Weight Problem
A striking side view of the Lamborghini Jarama highlights its distinctive profile, designed for balanced weight and agile handling. | Image source: Image from commons.wikimedia.org (Creative Commons Licensed)

Despite its powerful V12, the Jarama was notably heavy for its class, tipping the scales at over 3,600 pounds.
This extra weight impacted its agility, making it less nimble than lighter, focused sports cars.
Still, the Jarama offered impressive stability and comfort—true to its grand touring purpose, rather than pure corner-carver.

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17. Rare Color Options

17. Rare Color Options
A lineup of rare Lamborghini Jarama models showcases an array of striking paint color options under bright showroom lights. | Image source: Image from en.m.wikipedia.org (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Jarama stood out with its selection of vibrant and rare color options, from metallic greens to deep blues and bold yellows.
Some of these hues are especially coveted by collectors today, adding even more individuality to an already unique classic.
A Jarama in an original, rare color is truly a head-turner.

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18. Real-World Usability

18. Real-World Usability
A Lamborghini with its trunk open reveals surprising luggage space, showcasing a blend of luxury and everyday driving comfort. | Image source: Image from he.m.wikipedia.org (Creative Commons Licensed)

Unlike many of Lamborghini’s wild supercars, the Jarama excelled in real-world usability.
It offered genuine comfort, decent luggage capacity, and a smoother driving experience—ideal for longer journeys.
This blend of practicality and performance made it more approachable, appealing to owners who valued an exotic car they could truly use every day.

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19. A Cult Following

19. A Cult Following
A vibrant gathering of Jarama enthusiasts admires a stunning lineup of classic cars at a lively community show. | Image source: Image from www.nps.gov (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Jarama enjoys a cult following among dedicated owners and enthusiasts.
This passionate group celebrates the model’s uniqueness, sharing knowledge and resources to keep these rare GTs on the road.
Their commitment ensures the Jarama’s legacy endures, fostering appreciation for Lamborghini’s more unconventional and underappreciated classics.

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20. Rising Star in the Classic Market

20. Rising Star in the Classic Market
A striking Lamborghini Jarama gleams under the auction lights, attracting investors as classic car market trends accelerate. | Image source: Image from www.flickr.com (Creative Commons Licensed)

In recent years, the Jarama has become a rising star in the classic car market.
Collectors and enthusiasts are rediscovering its unique appeal, driving up demand and values.
As its reputation grows, the Jarama is finally earning the recognition it deserves as a true Lamborghini classic.

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Remembering the Jarama

Remembering the Jarama
A pristine vintage Lamborghini GT shines under soft light, showcasing the timeless elegance of classic Lamborghini history. | Image source: Image from www.rawpixel.com (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Lamborghini Jarama may have spent years in the shadows of its more famous siblings, but its unique blend of grand touring luxury and V12 performance makes it a standout in automotive history.
As its rarity and character are rediscovered, the Jarama’s reputation continues to grow.
For collectors and enthusiasts seeking something truly distinctive, the Jarama offers an irresistible combination of style, comfort, and pedigree.
Perhaps it’s time to give Lamborghini’s forgotten front-engine GT the spotlight it deserves.

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