Lamborghini Miura: The DEFINITIVE Best & Worst Years Analysis
Definition: What Exactly Is The Lamborghini Miura?
The Lamborghini Miura (1966–1973) is the world’s first mid-engine V12 supercar, designed by Marcello Gandini at Bertone. Its transverse 3.9-liter V12, positioned behind the driver, revolutionized performance car layout. The name “Miura” comes from a legendary Spanish fighting bull breeder, Don Eduardo Miura. With only 764 units built, it’s among the most iconic classic cars. Understanding the best and worst year of Lamborghini Miura is crucial because early cars had critical flaws, while later SV models represent mechanical perfection.
Why does year matter? Lamborghini continuously upgraded chassis, cooling, and engine internals. The difference between a 1966 P400 and a 1972 P400SV is night and day — reliability, safety, and driving pleasure improved dramatically.
Types / Variants of Lamborghini Miura (Complete List)
Original 350hp, 4x Weber 40 IDL, 5-speed. Lightest but raw: no power steering, weak cooling, oil surge.
370hp, revised camshafts, electric windows, upgraded interior, optional AC. Slightly improved oiling.
385hp, wider rear track, reinforced chassis, new lubrication system, bigger brakes, improved cooling — the best.
Jota (lightweight track prototype) and unique roadster; ultra-rare, not mass-produced but influential.
Each type has unique characteristics. The P400SV is unanimously considered the best year range (1971–1972), while early P400 (1966-early 1967) is the worst.
Best Year: 1972 Lamborghini Miura P400SV (Deep Analysis)
✅ Why 1972 (late 1971–1972 production) is the absolute best: The P400SV (Super Veloce) solved virtually every flaw. Engine lubrication was upgraded with additional scavenge pumps and a deeper sump, eliminating oil starvation. Cooling system improved with larger radiator and twin electric fans. Chassis received extra bracing, reducing flex. Brakes became ventilated discs with stronger calipers. Power rose to 385 bhp at 7850 rpm. Also, the SV gained wider rear fenders and massive 9-inch rear wheels, improving grip. Fewer than 150 SVs exist, and 1972 examples are the most refined.
Is it safe to drive a 1972 SV? Compared to modern cars, no airbags or ABS, but it’s predictable, with good brakes and chassis composure. Many collectors consider it the only Miura suitable for spirited driving without constant anxiety.
- Highest power & torque across rev range
- Excellent oil control — safe for track use
- Upgraded cooling prevents overheating
- Wider track & suspension tuning = better handling
- Greatest investment potential (prices often exceed $2.5M)
- Better synchromesh gearbox
- Extremely expensive entry price
- Parts scarcity (SV-specific items)
- Still lacks modern safety aids
- High maintenance costs (specialist required)
Worst Year: 1966 Miura P400 (First Production)
⚠️ Why 1966 is the worst year: Early P400s (chassis up to #350) suffered severe teething problems. The most critical issue: oil surge during hard cornering, which could starve the V12 and cause catastrophic failure. Also, the original cooling system was undersized — overheating in traffic was common. Gearbox shift linkage was vague, and chassis flex led to door gaps misalignment. Rust protection was minimal. No power assistance for anything. While historically important, a 1966 Miura is a high-maintenance, fragile machine.
How to identify a 1966 model? No side windows (fixed perspex), early dashboard layout, and narrow rear tires. Many have been upgraded, but original examples are best left for museums.
- Purist raw driving experience
- Lightest Miura (approx 1280 kg)
- Historic significance, first of its kind
- Simpler mechanicals (some find charming)
- High risk of engine seizure due to oil surge
- Overheating in warm climates
- Poor cabin ventilation & noise levels
- Weak synchros & heavy clutch
- Structural rust potential
- Very low collector demand compared to SV
Full Comparison: Every Miura Year (1966–1973)
| Year/Model | Power | Key Improvements | Reliability Score | Collector Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1966 P400 | 350 hp | Original launch; no upgrades | ★☆☆☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ (historical only) |
| 1967 P400 | 350 hp | Minor carb updates, early chassis fixes | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| 1968 P400 | 350 hp | Improved suspension bushings | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| 1969 P400S | 370 hp | Power increase, electric windows, better sound deadening | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 1970 P400S | 370 hp | Optional air conditioning, minor oil system revision | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 1971 P400SV (early) | 385 hp | Wider track, uprated brakes, chassis reinforcement | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| 1972 P400SV | 385 hp | Best lubrication/cooling, final spec — peak Miura | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| 1973 P400SV (final) | 385 hp | Same as 1972, end of production (only few) | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
How To Choose The Best Miura Year: Practical Guide
Step-by-step method: 1) Define your budget — SV models start at $1.8M+, while early P400 can be found around $1M. 2) Decide usage: for regular driving, only 1971+ SV. For investment, SV is best. For museum piece, any year works. 3) Inspect chassis number: avoid #300–#400 (early teething). 4) Check for retrofitted SV oil pan & cooling upgrades on earlier cars. 5) Hire a specialist for pre-purchase inspection (PPI).
Is it safe to buy a Miura without inspection? Absolutely not — hidden rust, engine wear, and electrical gremlins are common. Always perform a leak-down test, chassis alignment check, and borescope inspection.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Owning a Miura (All Years)
- Iconic design, timeless beauty
- Phenomenal V12 sound and performance
- Strong investment appreciation (20%+ annually)
- Exclusive club of owners
- Mid-engine layout provides excellent handling
- High purchase and running costs
- Limited parts availability, long lead times
- Lack of modern safety features
- Early models have serious reliability issues
- Uncomfortable for tall drivers (cramped cabin)
Use cases: Best for weekend concours, collector rallies, and investment portfolio. Not recommended as daily driver or long-distance touring without support vehicle.
Is The Lamborghini Miura Safe? (Honest Answer)
Short answer: By modern standards, no. No airbags, no crumple zones, no ABS, no traction control. However, the later P400SV has decent brakes (ventilated discs) and predictable handling. The biggest safety risk is oil starvation on early cars causing sudden engine lock-up — extremely dangerous at speed. For safety improvements, owners can install period-correct racing harnesses, fire extinguisher, and upgraded tires. But never mistake a Miura for a safe modern supercar.
If you prioritize safety, choose a 1972 SV with documented engine upgrades and regular maintenance. Avoid any Miura without a professional inspection.
How To Maintain A Miura (By Year)
Routine: Oil changes every 3,000 miles (high-zinc 20W-50). Valve adjustments every 6,000 miles. Cooling system flush every 2 years. For early P400, install a deeper sump and upgraded oil pump. For S and SV, check cam chain tensioners regularly. Always store in climate-controlled garage to prevent rust. How to improve reliability? Upgrade to electronic ignition, modern radiator, and electric cooling fan. Many owners retrofit SV-style oil coolers on early cars.
Cost of ownership: yearly budget $10k–$25k for routine service, plus unexpected repairs. Parts like a water pump can cost $3k.
