An Italian startup called Eccentrica Cars has recently unveiled a restomod project based on the iconic Lamborghini Diablo. The project represents the vision of Emanuel Colombini, the owner of Colombini furniture company and a passionate Lamborghini enthusiast. As a collector of Lamborghini cars and a participant in the Lamborghini Super Trofeo racing series, Colombini aims to establish Eccentrica as a leader in the restomod industry. The Diablo project serves as a testament to the company’s ambitions, combining a modern aesthetic with improved performance while maintaining the essence of the original Diablo.
Colombini’s love for the Lamborghini Diablo began when he saw a red Diablo in the first issue of Quattroruote magazine as a child. He was instantly captivated and, after having the opportunity to drive the GT version, he decided to pay homage to it by creating a restomod company centered around this project.
The restoration process for the Diablo was extensive, starting with the stripping of the donor car down to its steel tubular chassis. Reinforcements were made to enhance the strength and rigidity of the chassis. The car’s body was also redesigned to be wider and more imposing, not only to enhance its looks but also to increase the track width and reduce understeer. Traditional coach-building methods were employed, including the use of aluminum and hammering and rolling techniques. The iconic pop-up headlights were replaced with modern LED units, and the rear section of the car was extensively renewed, with the central tips from a Capristo exhaust system becoming the highlight.
The powertrain of the Diablo was also enhanced beyond just the exhaust system. The original 5.7-liter V-12 engine, found in earlier versions of the Diablo, received new valves and camshafts, resulting in a power output of 550 hp, up from the stock 485 hp. While the development of the project is ongoing, Eccentrica estimates a 0-62 mph acceleration time of 3.5 seconds, a top speed of 208 mph, and up to 1.2 g of lateral acceleration.
To complement the enhanced performance, the Diablo restomod features 19-inch wheels with Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires and modern Brembo brakes with six-piston calipers. The new brakes reduce the stopping distance from 62 mph by 23 feet.
The interior of the Diablo was meticulously redesigned, combining the original minimalist cabin design with high-quality materials. The displays and switchgear resemble those found in old fighter jets, adding a touch of nostalgia. Analog gauges were replaced with displays featuring pixelated graphics, and materials such as Alcantara, carbon fiber, and leather were used for trim. The steering column, made of carbon fiber, pays homage to the original Diablo GTR.
In addition to the performance and interior modifications, the Diablo restomod also features a storage area behind the seats that can accommodate custom suitcases provided by Eccentrica on request. Small metal hooks on either side of the rear cabin allow for hanging jackets or bags.
The Diablo restomod is not a one-off project. Eccentrica plans to produce a small production run of no more than 19 units. The price for a conversion starts at 1.2 million euros (approximately $1.3 million), excluding the cost of the donor Diablo. The entire process is expected to take between 16 and 18 months, depending on the specific requirements of the customer.
The prototype of the Diablo restomod will make its formal debut at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed in the United Kingdom. Subsequently, it will embark on a tour of the United States, with its first appearance during Monterey Car Week.
The Eccentrica Diablo restomod project showcases the dedication and craftsmanship of the Italian startup. By combining a modern aesthetic with enhanced performance while preserving the essence of the iconic Lamborghini Diablo, Eccentrica aims to establish itself as a leader in the restomod business. With its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality, the company is poised to make a mark in the automotive industry.