Who Actually Started Lamborghini, and Why Was Ferrari Involved?
It’s hard to imagine the world of supercars without Lamborghini’s wild designs and roaring engines. But rewind to the early 1960s, and Lamborghini’s story begins not with a passion for racing, but with a feud. Ferruccio Lamborghini, a successful tractor manufacturer, was frustrated with the reliability of his Ferraris. After a heated exchange with Enzo Ferrari himself—who reportedly dismissed Ferruccio’s complaints—Lamborghini decided to build a better car. The result? The birth of Automobili Lamborghini in 1963, right in the heart of Italy’s Motor Valley.
What’s fascinating is how personal pride and a bit of stubbornness led to one of the most iconic automotive brands. It’s a classic case of competition fueling innovation. Without that spat, Lamborghini might have stuck to tractors, and the world would’ve missed out on the Miura, Countach, and Aventador.
How Did Lamborghini’s Ownership Get So Complicated?
If you think Lamborghini’s cars are dramatic, wait until you hear about its ownership history. The company’s journey reads like a soap opera—full of unexpected twists, colorful characters, and more than a few power plays.
After its promising start, Lamborghini hit financial trouble in the early 1970s. The oil crisis hit hard, supercar sales slumped, and Ferruccio sold his stake. The company bounced between owners, including Swiss brothers Jean-Claude and Patrick Mimran, who rescued it from bankruptcy in the 1980s. The Mimrans invested heavily, modernized the lineup, and set the stage for Lamborghini’s next chapter.
But the plot thickens. In 1987, Chrysler swooped in, hoping to inject some American muscle into the Italian brand. While Chrysler’s tenure brought the Diablo to life, it was short-lived. By the mid-1990s, Lamborghini was sold again—this time to a group including Indonesian businessman Tommy Suharto, son of Indonesia’s then-dictator. The Suharto era was marked by instability and, frankly, questionable decision-making.
Who Owns Lamborghini Today, and How Has That Changed the Brand?
The late 1990s brought a much-needed dose of stability. In 1998, Audi (a subsidiary of Volkswagen Group) acquired Lamborghini. This move was a game-changer. With German engineering and financial muscle behind it, Lamborghini finally had the resources to compete at the highest level.
Audi’s stewardship brought a new level of reliability and quality control. Models like the Gallardo and Huracán became best-sellers, and Lamborghini’s reputation soared. According to data from Statista, Lamborghini’s global sales have grown steadily, reaching over 9,000 units in 2022—a record for the company. The brand’s unmistakable DNA remains, but now it’s paired with everyday usability and cutting-edge tech.
What’s the Real Impact of All These Ownership Changes?
Every new owner left a mark. The Mimran brothers brought Lamborghini back from the brink. Chrysler gave it global visibility, even if their vision didn’t quite fit. The Suharto era? Best described as turbulent. But it was Audi’s investment that turned Lamborghini into a modern powerhouse.
Industry experts often point out that Lamborghini’s resilience is its secret weapon. Despite wild swings in leadership and direction, the brand never lost its core appeal: outrageous design, thrilling performance, and a rebellious spirit. In fact, some argue that these ownership changes kept Lamborghini from becoming stale—each new chapter forced the company to adapt and innovate.
Are There Lessons for Other Brands in Lamborghini’s Wild Ride?
Absolutely. Lamborghini’s story is a masterclass in reinvention. It shows how even the most iconic brands can hit rough patches—and bounce back stronger. The key? Staying true to your roots while embracing change. Whether it’s a family business, a corporate giant, or a state-backed venture, the right leadership can make or break a brand.
For car enthusiasts and business leaders alike, Lamborghini’s journey is a reminder that success rarely follows a straight line. Sometimes, a little chaos is exactly what’s needed to spark greatness.
The big takeaway? Lamborghini isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.
