1968 Lamborghini Islero Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Lamborghini Islero, produced from 1968 to 1970, is approximately 1220 kg (2689 lbs). This relatively light weight for a grand tourer was achieved through the use of advanced construction techniques and materials available at the time. The lower weight contributes positively to the car's performance, handling, and fuel efficiency, allowing the front-engine grand tourer to maintain a lively driving character. The balance between sturdiness and lightness is crucial for the Islero's ability to deliver the refined yet spirited driving experience Lamborghini is known for.

The Lamborghini Islero, with its length of 4525 mm (178.1 inches), width of 1730 mm (68.1 inches), and height of 1270 mm (50 inches), is sized appropriately to fit into a standard residential garage. Most standard garages measure approximately 2438 mm (8 feet) wide and 6096 mm (20 feet) deep or larger, which comfortably accommodates the Islero's compact coupe dimensions. Its relatively low height also ensures ease of entry and clearance. However, precise fitment depends on the exact garage size and any shelving or storage inside the garage. Overall, the Islero poses no significant challenges for typical garage storage.

Compared to its predecessor, the Lamborghini 400 GT, the Islero shares very similar dimensional characteristics. The 400 GT measured roughly 4550 mm (179 inches) in length and had a similar width and height, indicating that the Islero carried forward the grand touring proportions typical of Lamborghini's early GT models. The Islero’s slightly more modern styling allowed for a marginally sleeker profile, but its footprint stayed true to the 400 GT’s class-leading size. This continuity ensured the Islero maintained the spaciousness and comfort of the 400 GT while introducing updated mechanical elements and design refinements.

The Lamborghini Islero’s coupe body style features a two-door configuration with seating for four, offering a balance of sporty aesthetics and practical cabin space. While exact interior dimensions are not as widely documented, the car’s overall width of 1730 mm (68.1 inches) provides a reasonably roomy cabin for its class and era, with sufficient shoulder room for front and rear passengers. The low roofline height of 1270 mm (50 inches) complements the sleek design but may slightly limit headroom, especially for taller occupants. The Islero strikes a compromise between driver-focused sportiness and passenger comfort, consistent with grand tourer expectations of the late 1960s.

When compared to other grand tourers from the late 1960s, such as the Aston Martin DB6 or the Jaguar E-Type Series 2, the Lamborghini Islero fits well within the typical size range for the category. Its length of 4525 mm (178.1 inches) and width of 1730 mm (68.1 inches) are comparable to these contemporaries, which generally ranged from 4400 mm to 4700 mm in length and about 1700 mm to 1800 mm in width. The Islero’s relatively lightweight construction at 1220 kg (2689 lbs) provided an edge in performance without sacrificing the comfortable, luxurious cabin space grand tourers are known for. This made the Islero a competitive choice for enthusiasts seeking Italian flair with practical usability.

The Lamborghini Islero exhibits a clean and understated design characterized by its long, sleek bonnet and relatively low roofline, contributing to its length of 4525 mm (178.1 inches) and height of 1270 mm (50 inches). The width of 1730 mm (68.1 inches) is accentuated by its gently flared wheel arches, emphasizing stability and road presence. Designed by Carrozzeria Marazzi, the Islero’s subtle styling cues, including a raked windshield and minimalistic trim, optimize aerodynamics while preserving a classic grand tourer silhouette. This combination of style and dimension offers a poised stance and balanced proportions, enhancing both aesthetics and functional driving dynamics.

The Lamborghini Islero is equipped with a 3.9-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine, a hallmark of Lamborghini engineering at the time. This engine produces around 325 horsepower, enabling the automobile to reach a top speed of approximately 260 km/h (162 mph). The power delivery is smooth yet potent, matching the grand tourer's refined but performance-oriented character. Coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission, the Islero offers an engaging driving experience, characteristic of Lamborghini’s blend of luxury and sportiness. Its light curb weight of 1220 kg (2689 lbs) aids acceleration and agility, making it a well-rounded GT car.

As a grand tourer, the Lamborghini Islero offers a practical level of luggage capacity befitting long-distance travel. The coupe design includes a rear luggage compartment that, while modest in size compared to modern standards, is sufficient for a weekend trip or a set of golf clubs. Given its length of 4525 mm (178.1 inches) and relatively balanced proportions, the Islero provides better storage space than many sports cars of the period. However, rear passenger legroom and cargo volume trade off for the car’s sleek styling, so practical storage is best suited for light to moderate luggage needs typical of grand touring rather than heavy cargo.

During its production years from 1968 to 1970, the Lamborghini Islero was considered both exclusive and relatively expensive, reflecting its status as a low-volume grand tourer from a prestigious Italian automaker. Although it was not produced in large numbers—fewer than 225 units—it carried a price tag that positioned it among other elite GTs of the era. Its exclusivity was enhanced by the craftsmanship, distinctive V12 engine, and hand-built quality. Collector interest in the Islero remains strong due to its rarity, performance, and place in Lamborghini’s early history, making it a highly sought-after classic today.