A remarkably rare Lamborghini Diablo SE30, one of just nine examples originally supplied new to the United Kingdom, is set to cross the block at RM Sotheby's London Auction 2026. The 1994 car stands out not only for its scarcity but for a provenance and specification that make it one of the most distinctive survivors of Lamborghini's 1990s V-12 flagship.

Built to celebrate Lamborghini's 30th anniversary, the SE30 took the standard Diablo and sharpened it into a leaner, more focused machine. Power comes from the brand's 5.7-liter naturally aspirated V-12, fitted with a revised fuel system, magnesium intake manifolds, and a freer-flowing exhaust, pushing output to roughly 525 horsepower. Unlike the contemporary Diablo VT, the SE30 retained rear-wheel drive, giving it a rawer, more demanding driving character. Engineers also stripped around 180 kilograms from the car through carbon-fiber body panels, lightweight racing seats and brakes, plexiglass windows, and the removal of air conditioning and power steering. The result was a 0-60 mph sprint of about four seconds and a top speed nearing 200 mph, figures that were exceptional for the time. Visually, the SE30 can be identified by its reworked brake-cooling intakes, a raised and slatted engine cover, and a tall rear wing featuring an active flap.

Lamborghini built only 150 SE30s in total, with 25 destined for North America and just 25 configured for right-hand drive worldwide—making the nine UK-market cars particularly rare. This specific chassis, numbered RLA12122, adds another layer of rarity through its color combination of Bianco Impacto paintwork over a Bleu Alcantara interior, a pairing shared by only three other SE30s. According to the listing, it is believed to be the sole right-hand-drive car finished in that exact specification.

The car's history is equally notable. It was first ordered by the royal family of Brunei before later joining the collection of New Zealand automotive figure Sir Colin Giltrap. Its current owner acquired the Diablo in 2006 and has kept it in careful, low-mileage condition ever since, with the odometer showing just 12,396 kilometers, or about 7,700 miles. Maintenance records show recent servicing as of March 2026, including an engine oil and filter change along with a brake-fluid replacement, with full documentation accompanying the sale.

Combining limited production, an unusual factory color scheme, rare right-hand-drive configuration, and a traceable ownership history linking Brunei's royal family to a prominent New Zealand collector, this SE30 represents a particularly compelling entry for Lamborghini enthusiasts eyeing RM Sotheby's upcoming London sale.

Source: Sports Car Digest

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