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The Bull’s First SUV
Lamborghini LM002 Paris Dakar

Lamborghini will unveil its new SUV, the “Urus” on December 4, 2017. Before we get to see the latest addition to the Italian luxury carmaker, the company would like us to remember its first real off-road vehicle, first sold in 1986, the Lamborghini LM002.

Shown here is the modified version of the LM002, which was overhauled entirely to participate in the most famous and competitive rally of all time: the Paris-Dakar. Featuring an updated V12 engine boosted from 455 to 600 HP, this LM002 was free of any trim that added weight. Everything was made lighter using components derived from competition cars. The original luxurious interior and radio were tossed, replaced by a roll cage and five-point safety belts, as well as an advanced navigation system.

Window glass gave way to plastic, and the new, decidedly larger fuel tank had ballistic protection. The redesigned suspension and braking systems improved responsiveness and reliability, with the front window impact resistant. Last but not least, the spare wheel sat in a rear well, while the manual controls for the four-wheel-drive system where mounted on the drive shaft tunnel console. The rear seats were removed, leaving just two racing shells in front.

This LM002 was to take on the Paris-Dakar driven by the legendary Sandro Munari and his trusted navigator Mario Mannucci but missed the event due to the lack of sponsorship. The LM002 finally appeared in 1988, seen here in an off-road rally in Greece.

Now we’re looking forward to seeing the Urus in December.