This ultra-rare Lamborghini is not the kind of Italian exotic we usually talk about; after all, it’s a piece of farm equipment. Yet, this vintage machine instantly grabbed our attention as it is a very interesting part of Lamborghini’s history. What you’re looking at is a 1958 Lamborghini Agricultural tractor DL 30C, one of around ten prototypes made by the legendary Italian manufacturer fitted with a unique three-wheel kit. This highly collectible Lamborghini will soon cross the auction block in Paris and is estimated to fetch up to 60,000 euros (about $65,000).
Before we share interesting details of this experimental tractor, it’s important to talk about Lamborghini’s history. Ferruccio Lamborghini, founder of the eponymous brand, came from a family of well-off farmers. He established Lamborghini Trattori in 1948 in Cento, Italy, which focused on producing tractors to meet the strong demand following the post-war recovery. The company started repurposing military equipment and building tractors using war surplus materials.
In 1955, Lamborghini Trattori launched the DL 25C (the letter C stands for Crawler), which proved to be one of the most significant models for the company. The tractor rode on tracks like a military tank, which made it very effective on muddy fields and dirt roads. However, the biggest downside of tracks is that they can easily damage paved roads. The DL 30C, a successor to the 25 C, featured a unique design that solved the problem caused by tracks.
The prototype version of the tractor came with a three-wheel kit, allowing it to travel on public roads. A removable trailing wheel was installed at the front, while two big wheels fitted with deep-treaded tires were attached at the rear. Thanks to this unique setup, the 30 C could move normally on paved roads without the fear of tracks damaging the asphalt. But the added expense and complexity of the design meant the production version came with just the tracks.
This particular example of the Lamborghini Agricultural tractor DL 30C is painted in its original shade of yellow, has a German title, and the chassis number #2059/30. It also retains the original 1,810cc two-cylinder diesel engine capable of producing 30 bhp. The listing also claims that the tractor is “in impeccable condition following its restoration.” The tractor will be auctioned by Artcurial at its Retromobile Sale 2024 on the 2nd of February 2024.
[Via – Silodrome]
