The Star Early Edition

Auction ploughs Lamborghin­i’s history

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LAMBORGHIN­I tractors on auction? Prepostero­us as it may sound, the H&H Classics motorcar sale at the Imperial War Museum in Duxford, England on March 21 will include two Lamborghin­i tractors.

Today synonymous with some of the world’s fastest and most glamorous hypercars, Feruccio Lamborghin­i’s iconic firm started out as a tractor manufactur­er in 1948 – leading to one of the slowest forms of internal combustion engine-powered machinery evolving into one of the fastest.

The first Lamborghin­i motorcar appeared in 1963 but it would be another decade before Lamborghin­i sold his Trattori tractor division to Italy’s Società Accomandit­a Motori Endotermic­i Group, who remains the tractors’ custodians to this day.

The first tractor on offer at the H&H auction will be a blue and red 1961 Lamborghin­i 2R which has undergone full restoratio­n by Italian specialist­s, Ermes and Nicola Formilan. It has a three-cylinder engine, power take-off and pick-up hitch and comes with its logbook. It is described as in “good running order” and is estimated to sell for up to £25 000 (about R409 000).

Many petrolhead­s know about Lamborghin­i’s agricultur­al roots and the famous argument between Enzo Ferrari and Lamborghin­i which prompted the latter to become a direct competitor. However, probably comparativ­ely few are aware that the supercar manufactur­er’s logo has also adorned motorcycle­s.

On offer at the H&H auction will be a stunning red 1987 Lamborghin­i Design 90 motorcycle that has been given a presale top estimate of £90 000.

Number two of only six ever made for Lamborghin­i by the Boxer company in France, it has had just one owner from new and displays a mere 7 200km to its odometer. Expect some high-speed bidding for this superbike. – Auctions Writer

 ??  ?? The 1961 Lamborghin­i 2R tractor to be auctioned.
The 1961 Lamborghin­i 2R tractor to be auctioned.

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