The Lamborghini LM002 was its first SUV

With the Lamborghini Urus on the cusp of its official debut this year, the people behind the Raging Bull have decided to remind the world that this isn’t its first time at the SUV rodeo.

About 30 years ago, in 1986, the Lamborghini LM002 was revealed to the world, in all its V12 glory.

But the project started long before that.

Originally developed in the ‘70s as a project to create a high-performance off-roader for the military (then called the Cheetah, pictured below), the project was picked up again in 1981 by Lamborghini engineer Giulio Alfieri.

Alfieri then created the LM001, a rear-engined prototype. Then came the LMA, which featured a front-mounted engine.

Finally, the LM002 came about with all the ingredients as we know them today. The V12 engine from the Lamborghini Countach, an aluminium and fiberglass body, and four-wheel drive.

Lamborghini says the LM002 is able to climb 120 per cent gradients, or slopes of about 50 degrees.

“Reaching speeds of more than 200km/h, the LM002 was equipped with specially-developed Pirelli Scorpion tyres, allowing ‘floating’ capabilities across soft surfaces such as sand, and highly durable in hot conditions,” Lamborghini states.

“The production of the bodies started in a company near Bilbao in Spain.

“Then the semi- assembled parts were shipped to Sant’Agata Bolognese for completion with the powertrain, mechanical parts, finishing, testing and delivery.

“A luxurious interior matching the individual needs of the customer completed the LM 002.”

Between 1986 and 1992, 300 units of the LM002 were built, and one still remains with Lamborghini in its heritage collection. A trip out of the museum has resulted in the videos and photographs you see here.