While Lamborghini has been focusing on blisteringly quick supercars of late, it hasn’t always been this way. Back in the 1970s, Lamborghini produced the car you see above, the (somewhat) practical and subtle Urraco. Built to battle other entry-level 2+2 sports cars like the Ferrari Dino 308 GT4 and Maserati Merak, the Urraco featured a more spacious interior, a 180-247 hp mid-mounted V8, and more subdued styling than the Countach it was sold alongside. However, the simpler design doesn’t make the Urraco any less stunning.
Up front, the Urraco’s long, flat hood is duplicitous, suggesting a front-engine setup when in fact the V8 is housed behind the rear seats. Pop-up headlights hide above the thin chrome bumper, and the two deep, rectangular vents in the hood give the Urraco a more weighted, muscular look.
The windshield protrudes upwards at relatively steep angle—especially compared to the one-box Countach—and the upright cabin hints at the more usable intentions of the Urraco. Slab-sided doors and light character lines give the Lambo a glassy, tranquil appearance.
The Urraco’s defining feature is the set of “wings” that cover the C-pillar. These black panels give the Urraco a unique look to distinguish it from its competitors, while also pairing with the rear window louvres to add a dash of athleticism.
Lamborghini’s 2+2 would only stay in production for six years, before being replaced by the two-seat Silhouette and Jalpa. While not the most ambitious design, the Urraco’s crisp, smooth wedge and quirky C-pillar make is an elegant and interesting design, and a very lucky spot.
Grade
Front: A-
Back: A-
Overall: A
Photos courtesy of James Harvey
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