Description
Lamborghini tractor 3352 R, with Lamborghini motor DLA 35. Year of manufacturing 1961.
Highlights
• Fully restored to an exacting standard
• Never used since restoration
• Freshly restored this year
The Background
Prior to building eye-catching, outlandish supercars, Ferruccio Lamborghini served as a mechanic in the Regia Aeronautica during the second world war, and after returning home from the service, he set up a small automobile and motorcycle repair shop in Modena. From this, he branched out into the world of agricultural machinery, utilizing military surplus to build durable, hard-wearing tractors and other agri machinery, eventually becoming one of the largest manufacturers in Italy in the field (pardon the pun) of farming machinery.
The Lamborghini 3352R was produced between 1959 and 1962 and featured a 2. 2-liter (2194cc) air-cooled three-cylinder motor coupled to a four-speed manual transmission with both high and low-ratio gearing, along with two reverse gears, allowing slow speed usage.
The 3352R is the rarer predecessor of the model 2R (produced 1961-1965).
The History
This particular example was first registered in 1961, and whilst details of its early life are somewhat of a mystery, I do know that the previous owner (a farmer near Verona) owned the vehicle for at least 20 years, during which time it was laid-up in a shed.
A true barn-find, until 2020 when a specialized restoration shop set about restoring this 3352R to its former glory.
With all of the work taken care of ‘in-house’ the vehicle was stripped down, cleaned and sandblasted, before the bodywork was welded and straightened where required.
The engine was entirely disassembled, with all bushes, bands, belts, and gaskets replaced, along with new injectors, and attention to the diesel pump.
The transmission was simply given a fluid change but was in otherwise full working order, whilst the braking system was refreshed with new oil, pump adjustments and other miscellaneous parts and shoes replaced.
With these early vehicles, there was little work required in terms of the electrical systems, though both headlights have been restored and all wiring harnesses replaced, along with the overhauling of the starter motor.
As an idea of the vendor’s attention to detail with this restoration, we’ve been told “all of the screws are new, both for the engine and bodywork” which is a remarkable level of dedication to bringing this 3352R back to top condition.
All of the tires have been replaced (naturally) and the bodywork was primed then oven-baked in its original Lamborghini colors, and fitted a new battery, reproduction Lamborghini bonnet logo, and hand-finished embossing where needed.
The result is, frankly, one of the prettiest tractors ever seen, and a sure-fire delight for any Lamborghini or agricultural machinery enthusiast.
The Interior
Whilst there is no real ‘interior’ to speak of, given that the driver’s position is open to the elements, the seat is in excellent condition, the dashboard has been retained from the original vehicle, cosmetically restored but with the original tachometer and odometer/ speedometer, all of which is in working order.
The Exterior
Fully restored with a loving and exacting attention to detail, there is no denying that this 3352R is a truly eye-catching item of agricultural machinery.
Fresh out of the body shop and its loving restoration, I’d wager you won’t find a mark on this Lamborghini, especially on account that it hasn’t been used for more than a gentle jaunt since the work was completed.
With no damage, nicks, scuffs, or scratches to speak of, this is probably about as close as you’ll get to a box-fresh example of this classic 60’s tractor.
The Mechanics
You know you’re looking at someone’s project of passion when the mechanicals are as clean and well-presented as the rest of the vehicle, and this 3352R is no exception.
Wonderfully basic, the three-cylinder air-cooled engine presents in outstanding condition, having barely been run since the restoration was completed.
Whilst aesthetically pleasing to look at, a clean engine also means that there is nowhere for any leaks to hide, and there are no leaks or fluid misting issues to report, there are no known mechanical issues with the vehicle.
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The Appeal
Lovingly restored and a true piece of Lamborghini history, this 1961 3352R presents in utterly gorgeous condition, and is ready for the next owner to use as they see fit.
Given its cross between the agricultural world and supercar history world (thanks to its famous Lamborghini badge), this 3352R will appear to collectors of both interests alike, and will no doubt take pride of place in any garage - one not to be missed!
I can ship worldwide, contact me for more details.
Many pictures and a video are available on request.
