Automobili Lamborghini was founded in 1963 by Ferruccio Lamborghini, a successful Italian tractor manufacturer who wanted to build a better grand touring car than Ferrari. According to a famous story, he complained to Enzo Ferrari about his Ferrari’s clutch and was dismissed as a tractor maker — so he built his own cars. From its factory in Sant’Agata Bolognese, Lamborghini created the Miura, widely called the first supercar, and the wedge-shaped Countach. After several changes of ownership, it has belonged to Audi since 1998.

Timeline

Year Event
1948 Lamborghini Trattori founded
1963 Automobili Lamborghini founded
1964 350 GT, first production car
1966 Miura
1974 Countach
1987 Bought by Chrysler
1998 Bought by Audi
2018 Urus SUV

Tractors first

After the Second World War, Ferruccio Lamborghini built tractors from surplus military equipment and became wealthy. He also made heating and air-conditioning systems — and collected sports cars.

The Ferrari story

Lamborghini told the story that, unhappy with his Ferrari’s clutch, he confronted Enzo Ferrari, who reportedly told him to stick to tractors. Whether embellished or not, it captures Lamborghini’s motivation: to build a refined, reliable grand tourer.

The Miura and Countach

The Miura of 1966, designed by Marcello Gandini at Bertone, placed a V12 behind the driver in a stunning body and is often called the first supercar. The Countach of 1974, also by Gandini, introduced the wedge shape and scissor doors that became Lamborghini trademarks.

The bull

Lamborghini’s emblem is a charging bull — Ferruccio was born under the sign of Taurus and loved bullfighting. Many models are named after famous fighting bulls or breeds.

Ownership changes

Financial troubles led to ownership changes, including Chrysler from 1987. Audi bought Lamborghini in 1998, bringing stability and investment. The Urus SUV became its best-seller. Read the Lamborghini Urus.