Lamborghini are part of a small minority of manufacturers who have been an avid supporter of the immensely popular GT3 class since its birth in 2006. Aston Martin and Ferrari are the only other brands who are members of this rarefied club. Although Lamborghini’s competition history does not go back as far as these other great manufacturers, their recent successes makes up for it in spades. The majority of Lamborghini’s success came in the form of their GT3 presence. Interestingly the marque can also now be found competing in the World Endurance Championship in both the GT3 and Hypercar classes.
The Lamborghini LP520 was the car that started the GT3 success for Lamborghini. Built and developed by Reiter engineering who were the appointed factory outfit in GT1, GT2 and GT3. The LP520 GT3 possesses a naturally aspirated V10 which revs to 8100rpm producing a total of 520BHP. Combine this with the lightness of the Lamborghini, weighing only 1190kg, this combination was destined to produce a winning package, and that it did…
The Lamborghini LP520 GT3 produced over 40 class wins in major GT3 championships over its 4-season reign as the sole Lamborghini GT3 model. This was by far the weapon of choice for both amateur racers and pro drivers in this early era of GT3. As GT3 became more and more popular, German Giants such as Audi, Mercedes and Porsche saw the merits of GT3, and produced their own racers. With this, the original manufacturers began to bring out new models such as the Ferrari 458 GT3 and the Aston V12 Vantage. Lamborghini decided it was their time to upgrade. With this, the Lamborghini LP560 was born. Because of the success of the LP520, Lamborghini took a unique approach to the other manufacturers as they decided to stay with the same chassis. This was because Lamborghini designed such an amazing chassis, which proved competitive across 9 years of GT3 racing at the highest level.
ZHWGW12N87LA5142 was built in 2008 by Reiter and was originally sold to the Belgium team ARGO who debuted the car in that season’s ADAC GT Masters. This car went on to finish 3rd in the championship after a successful campaign. In 2009, the team decided to go back again and try for a better championship result in ADAC Masters, but found less success, finishing the season in 8th place.
After the cars two successful years in ADAC GT Masters, it was bought back by Reiter Engineering, where the car received a fresh chassis and VIN becoming ZHWGE12N87LA5142. After participating in the ADAC GT Masters in both 2010 and 2011 with mixed results, this chassis was tasked with the development of the aforementioned LP560 evo kit. After this work was completed, the car was sold to a private collector Singapore, where it saw very little use. It was then sold 8 years later to Denmark, and remains with the same owner today.
Renowned historic race preparation outfit Scott Sport have done an an outstanding job rebuilding this car the only way they know how, to the finest standards. As the car sits today, it is genuinely ‘race ready’. As part of these works, 5142 had its 2010 ADAC GT livery applied, plus received a new fuel cell, fuel pumps and new seatbelts. In addition all four corners were removed, bearings checked and replaced where necessary, while the dampers and brake system were fully refurbished, with new pads fitted. The engine, gearbox and driveshafts have only done 4 hours of running since being rebuilt, and a new clutch has been fitted.
Its recent race preparation make 5142 the perfect tool to enjoy in the new Motor Racing Legends GT3 Legends series, which hosts its inaugural race in October 2024 at the Silverstone GP Circuit. It represents superb value, eligibility and fun, so don’t be slow, as we doubt it will be available for long!