Review: Lamborghini L132.I Diablo (1991-98)

Overview

Released in September 1991, the Lamborghini L132 Series I (L132.I) Diablo was a two-seat supercar. The Diablo was powered by a mid-mounted 5.7-litre V12 engine – with double overhead camshafts – that was mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

Initially available as a rear-wheel drive coupe, all-wheel drive VT variants were released in 1994. Convertible models were available from 1996; these models were fitted with a power-operated carbon-fibre targa top which could be stored above the engine cover. The base Diablo was discontinued in 1995 and replaced by the more powerful SV (‘Super Veloce’) variant in 1996.

All-wheel drive system

The VT (‘Viscous Traction’) variants were fitted with an all-wheel drive system which utilised a viscous centre differential. In normal conditions, torque was directed to the rear wheels, but up to 28 per cent of the engine’s torque could be redirected to the front wheels in the event that traction was lost. The VT was also fitted with limited slip front and rear differentials, with 25 and 45 per cent locking ratios respectively.

Safety equipment

The L132.I Diablo was not fitted with safety equipment such as airbags or ABS.

Features

Standard Diablo features included 17-inch alloy wheels, an Alpine sound system, climate control air conditioning, leather trim, power windows and adjustable front seats and steering wheel.

When the VT was introduced, it could be identified by its air intakes below the driving lamps (for improved brake cooling) and larger intakes in the rear arches. The VT was also fitted with electronically adjustable dampers and power steering, though these developments were subsequently incorporated into the standard Diablo.

Released in 1996, the SV (‘Super Veloce’) could be identified by its ducted engine lid, additional front brake cooling ducts, dual front fog lamps (rather than the quad style of previous models), adjustable rear spoiler, black tail lamp surrounds and repositioned tail-lights.

Review: Lamborghini L132.II Diablo (1998-01)

Overview

Released in August 1998, the L132 Series II (L132.II) Diablo was powered by a more powerful 5.7-litre V12 engine due to the introduction of variable valve timing. Visually, the L132.II Diablo could be identified by its fixed composite headlights (replacing the pop-up headlights) and 18-inch alloy wheels with larger disc brakes. Inside, there was a new wave-shaped dashboard which featured a thin strip of black glass across the length of the dashboard.

In March 2000, the 5.7-litre models were discontinued and replaced by a 6.0-litre V12 VT coupe.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the L132.II Diablo included dual front airbags and ABS.

Diablo VT: 6.0-litre V12

Released in March 2000, the 6.0-litre V12 Diablo VT was fitted with a longer stroke version of the previous 5.7-litre V12 engine. The 6.0-litre unit, however, was accompanied by a new ECU, intake and exhaust systems and revised variable valve timing. Furthermore, the front and rear tracks were widened, the entire body – except for the doors – was made of carbon-fibre and the chassis was reinforced with carbon-fibre inserts.

Visually, the 6.0-litre V12 VT could be identified by its revised front fascia with two large air intakes, larger and repositioned indicator lenses and body-coloured tail-light surrounds. The interior was also updated and featured new climate control system.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Lamborghini L132 Diablo

Recalls: Lamborghini L132 Diablo

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Lamborghini L132 Diablo

No recall information is available for the Lamborghini Diablo. To search for recalls of Lamborghini models, please visit Product Safety Recalls Australia: Lamborghini.

Problems and faults: Lamborghini L132 Diablo

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Lamborghini L132 Diablo

No troubleshooting information is currently available for the Lamborghini L132 Diablo.

Released in September 1991, the Lamborghini L132 Series I (L132.I) Diablo was a two-seat supercar. The Diablo was powered by a mid-mounted 5.7-litre V12 engine – with double overhead camshafts – that was mated to a five-speed manual transmission… Read full Lamborghini L132 Diablo review

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Images: Lamborghini L132.II Diablo (1998-01)

Released in August 1998, the Lamborghini L132 Series II (L132.II) Diablo was powered by a more powerful 5.7-litre V12 engine due to the introduction of variable valve timing. Visually, the L132.II Diablo could be identified by its fixed composite headlights (replacing the pop-up headlights) and 18-inch alloy wheels with larger disc brakes. Inside, there was a new wave-shaped dashboard which featured a thin strip of black glass across the length of the dashboard. In March 2000, the 5.7-litre models were discontinued and replaced by a 6.0-litre V12 VT coupe.

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