RM Sotherby’s One-of-One Lamborghini Concept Fails to Sell

At the RM Sotheby’s luxury automotive auction earlier this month in New York City, a one-of-one 2006 Lamborghini Concept S crossed the block with a sky-high reserve around $2.4 million. 

Over a decade ago, the Gallardo-based Concept S was set to go into production of 100 models, albeit for a much lower price. The project was canceled after this first model, due to high costs and time-consuming production. Awfully sad to see this breath-taking Lambo that never reached full production, however this one example is a pretty good example of how Lamborghini stays at the cutting-edge of design.

The original Concept S was first shown at the Geneva International Auto Show in 2005 and was a great success. The Head of Lamborghini Design at the time, Luc Donckerwolke, is a racing fanatic who loves open cockpit pure racing, like Formula 1. He wanted to incorporate that theory of design into the Concept S. “Pure driving experience to be undisturbed by your co-pilot” was Donckerwolke’s goal for the design, which was well-executed with what he calls a “two single seater” body. Each occupant is now able to enjoy a single-seater driving experience, letting them communicate with the car instead of themselves. That might of been the downfall.

This production model is equipped with the Gallardo’s 5.0 liter V10 producing a roaring 520 horsepower. A 6-speed automated manual transmission channels power to all-four wheels with help from paddle shifters behind the thick two-tone leather steering wheel. One of the things altered from the concept to the production model is the wrap around windows that are cut a bit shorter, making for a dramatic lowered profile. The lower windows complement the extreme aerodynamics, allowing the unique body design to shine. That middle bridge separating the passengers is still unlike anything produced today.

The Lambo Concept S didn’t reach its reserve for this auction, but you’ll have another chance at the bidding soon enough. Obviously that $2.4 million price point was too high. But what would you pay for a factory custom bodied Gallardo? The Gallardo’s successor, the Huracan, is around $240,000 and is probably faster, but it isn’t always about speed, right? 

Chime in with your thoughts on the forum. >>

Via [RMSothebys]