Lamborghini Engineering
Founder: Ferruccio Lamborghini (1916-1993)
Nation: Italy
First GP: 1989 Brazilian GP
Final GP: 1993 Australian GP
Best Result: 3rd (1990 Japanese GP)
Best Grid Position: 5th (1990)
Championship Performance
1989 Season
Constructors’: 16th (Larousse)
0 points · Reliability struggles
1990 Season
Constructors’: 6th (Lotus-Lamborghini)
Drivers’: Suzuki 12th
1 podium · 11 points
1991-1993
Declining competitiveness
Powered 7 constructors
49 DNS/DNQ highlighting reliability issues
Technical Specifications: 3512 V12
1989 Version
Configuration: 80° V12
Valvetrain: DOHC, 4 valves/cyl
Power: 600hp @ 11,200rpm
Weight: 150 kg
Teams: Larousse, Lola
1990-1991 Version
Configuration: 80° V12
Valvetrain: DOHC, 4 valves/cyl
Power: 640hp @ 13,000rpm
Weight: 150 kg
Teams: Lotus, Ligier, Lamborghini
Peak: Suzuki’s podium at Suzuka
1992-1993 Version
Configuration: 80° V12
Valvetrain: DOHC, 4 valves/cyl
Power: 710hp @ 13,800rpm
Weight: 150 kg
Teams: Minardi, Larousse, Venturi
Notable Drivers
Engineering Philosophy
Passion Over Pragmatism
Prioritized emotional V12 soundtrack over efficiency
Aesthetic Excellence
Engines were works of art with intricate casting
Technical Characteristics
- Distinctive Sound: Most sonically dramatic V12 of its era
- Power Evolution: 600hp → 710hp over 4 seasons
- Reliability Issues: Suffered 49 DNS/DNQ from 80 entries
- Weight Penalty: 150kg vs 120-130kg competitors
- Advanced Design: First F1 engine with direct fuel injection
Iconic Moments
Debut Season
First race at Jacarepagua with Larousse
Philippe Alliot qualified 15th
Suzuka Podium
Suzuki finished 3rd at home race
Lamborghini’s only F1 podium
Final Race
Larini retired after 34 laps in Adelaide
End of Lamborghini’s F1 engine program
Legacy & Influence
Road Car Technology
DI technology appeared in Diablo VT road car
Sound Benchmark
Considered most beautiful-sounding F1 engine
“The Lamborghini V12 wasn’t the most powerful, but it was the most emotional engine I ever drove. At full song, it felt like conducting an orchestra.” – Eric Bernard
Challenges & Exit
Weight Disadvantage
150kg vs competitors’ 120-130kg engines
Financial Constraints
Lacked manufacturer budget for development
V12 Philosophy
12 cylinders inherently less efficient than V10/V8
Final Race: 1993 Australian GP
Driver: Nicola Larini
Car: Larousse LH93
Engine: Lamborghini 3512 V12
Result: Retired (Engine)
Laps: 34/79 · Final position: NC
