Who Makes Lamborghini Cars?
by Rob WagnerUpdated June 22, 2023
Lamborghini is owned by the German automaker Audi AG, a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group. Since its inception in 1963, Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. struggled financially, although it delivered high-quality premium cars. The 1973 and 1978 oil crisis further worsened Lamborghini's fortunes. Mergers in the 1970s and 1980s didn't stabilize the company until it was acquired by Audi.
Founding
Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. was founded by Italian tractor manufacturer Ferruccio Lamborghini, who was a sports car enthusiast.
Ferrari Influence
Lamborghini was an avid Ferrari sports car fan. He decided to build a competing sports car after Ferrari creator Enzo Ferrari rebuffed Lamborghini's efforts to discuss problems with the Ferrari Lamborghini owned.
First Cars
Beginning in 1963, Lamborghini built the 350GT and the 400GT tourers, followed by the Miura. These cars became the primary rivals to the Ferrari.
Financial Problems
In 1972, Lamborghini's tractor business was dealt a blow when a large tractor contract was canceled, forcing Lamborghini to sell the tractor company to Fiat, which eventually sold it to SAME Deutz-Fahr Group.
Bankruptcy
Lamborghini filed bankruptcy in 1978, was bought by the Swiss-based Mimran Brothers in 1984, and was sold to Chrysler three years later.
Audi
Chrysler improved production and then sold Lamborghini to the Indonesian investment company Megatech, which in turn sold it in 1998 to Audi AG where the car was returned to its prestigious international position.
Writer Bio
Rob Wagner is a journalist with over 35 years experience reporting and editing for newspapers and magazines. His experience ranges from legal affairs reporting to covering the Middle East. He served stints as a newspaper and magazine editor in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Wagner attended California State University, Los Angeles, and has a degree in journalism.
