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Lamborghini Jalpa: V8 supersports car from the 1980s
The Lamborghini Jalpa — a 'smaller' Lamborghini with a V8 engine and removable roof, produced from 1981 to 1990. We look at what makes it special, its technology, and what to know when buying this rare classic sports car.
Jalpa in brief
The Jalpa was Lamborghini's offering for those who found the Countach too extreme. It was a mid-engine supersports car with a removable targa roof, making it more practical and easier to handle than its older sibling.
The car was produced from 1981 to 1990, with around four hundred units made. Today, it's a rare collector's item.
Which version to choose
The Jalpa was produced in one main version, so the key is the condition and history of the specific example. Cars differ only in minor details and buyer-selected equipment.
The Jalpa is considered less 'sharp' than the Countach, making it ideal for those who want a collectible Lamborghini that can still be driven.
Engine and transmission
The Jalpa has a 3.5-litre V8 engine mounted at the rear, delivering around 250 HP. That's significantly less than the V12 models, but still offers a sporty acceleration.
The transmission is a manual 5-speed, with power sent to the rear wheels. The car is praised for its lively character and beautiful V8 sound.
What to check when buying a used Jalpa
Inspect the body for corrosion and previous repairs, especially the sills, underbody, and rear section. Also, check the condition of the targa roof.
Check the condition of the engine and gearbox, cooling system, and electrical equipment. Before buying, it's worth requesting a full service history.
Parts availability is limited, and maintenance is expensive, so it's worth enlisting an independent specialist familiar with Lamborghini.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most commonly found trims in Europe.
Jalpa
1981–1990The sole series version with a V8 engine and targa roof.
- 3.5-litre V8 engine
- Removable targa roof
- Mid-engine layout
Comparison of buying options
| Originalus egzempliorius | Restauruotas egzempliorius | Kolekcinis eksponatas | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Collectors | Enthusiasts | Investors |
| Main risk | High price | Restoration quality | Authenticity |
| Finding parts | Complicated | Complicated | Complicated |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€€ | €€€ | €€€ |
The Jalpa is the most accessible Lamborghini for collectors. Before buying, check its history and condition, and get a specialist to appraise it.
Pros
- A rare and collectible Lamborghini
- Lively V8 engine
- Removable targa roof
- More practical than the Countach
Cons
- High price and expensive maintenance
- Limited parts availability
- Less powerful than V12 models
Frequently asked questions
How many Jalpas were produced?
Produced in numbers of around four hundred units, making it a rare car.
How does the Jalpa differ from the Countach?
The Jalpa has a V8 engine and a removable roof, is less powerful but more practical and easier to handle.
Is the Jalpa suitable for daily use?
Rarely. It's a valuable collectible car, so it's usually not driven daily but reserved for outings and events.
Updated 2026-10-19 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
