Lamborghini Diablo SE30: A Revival of Precision
Introduction: Bringing a Legend Back to Life
Few machines command the respect of the Lamborghini Diablo SE30 — the stripped-down, highly focused 30th-anniversary edition of an already iconic supercar. With only 150 ever produced, each surviving example is a treasure of automotive history. When this SE30 arrived at Wistar Motors, we committed ourselves to a true restoration: one rooted in authenticity, craftsmanship, and mechanical integrity.
This is the story of how we rebuilt the heart of this SE30, refined its bodywork with expert partners, and revived the car to run and look as it should — spectacularly.
Real Images of chassis RLA12027
Chassis RLA12027 in the showroom
The original 5.7L V12 engine is being meticulously rebuilt to factory spec, preserving the SE30’s high-revving character and aggressive power delivery. Every detail—from the period-correct paint finish to the authentic interior textures—is being restored or sourced to ensure historical accuracy.
This project is more than a rebuild—it’s a tribute to the engineering and spirit of one of Lamborghini’s most radical creations, brought back to life with craftsmanship, respect, and a deep passion for automotive heritage.
A Brief History of the Diablo SE30
When Lamborghini unveiled the Diablo SE30 in 1993, it wasn’t just another variant of their already outrageous supercar—it was a rolling celebration of the company’s 30th anniversary, a statement piece that reminded the world of what made Lamborghini different. Unlike the standard Diablo, which was already ferociously fast but laced with the touches of comfort expected in a 1990s supercar, the SE30 was deliberately stripped back to its essence.
Gone were the stereo, power windows, and air conditioning; in their place came racing seats, Alcantara upholstery, carbon fiber trim, and a sense that this car belonged on a track.
Beneath its long, low body sat a 5.7-liter naturally aspirated V12, now tuned to 525 horsepower, enough to hurl the car to 60 mph in just about four seconds and on to a top speed north of 200 mph. Visually, the SE30 announced its special status with unique styling cues: a new front bumper with larger intakes, lightweight magnesium wheels, and a prominent rear wing.
Engine Revival: Rebuilding the SE30’s 5.7L V12
Disassembly: Starting From the Core
This restoration began where any proper revival should: the engine bay.
Rather than removing the engine entirely, we focused our restoration efforts on the upper section of the 5.7L V12. The intake system and valve covers were carefully removed, giving us full access to the top end for inspection, testing, and correction.
Detailed Check-Overs and Precision Corrections
Once disassembled, we performed:
Comprehensive compression and leak-down analysis
Full inspection of the valvetrain for wear patterns and lubrication irregularities
Verification of ignition and timing components
Anything that didn’t meet SE30 factory spec was refurbished, machined, or replaced with period-correct parts sourced through our restoration network.
Reassembly: Returning to Factory Perfection
Our team reassembled the V12 with meticulous care — fresh seals, refreshed internals, restored hardware, balanced rotating components, and renewed cooling and lubrication pathways.
Once reinstalled, the engine was:
Brought through heat-cycling
Tuned to factory output
Test-run repeatedly to validate reliability
The end result; the SE30’s V12 now runs strong, smooth, and responsive — exactly as a limited-edition Diablo should.
Bodywork & Exterior Restoration: Partnering with Moppert Auto Collision
Structural & Cosmetic Refinement
The SE30’s bodywork has always been one of its defining features — sharp, aggressive, and unmistakably 1990s Lamborghini. Restoring its presence was essential.
We partnered with Moppert Auto Collision, one of the region’s most skilled high-end refinishing and structural specialists. Together, we addressed imperfections in the composite panels, surface inconsistencies, aging clear coat, and paint and refinishing needs.
Final Paint & Clear Coat: Nearing Completion
Right now, the SE30 is in the final paint and clear coat stages, where Moppert’s team is applying the precise, deep finish this car deserves. Their refinishing work ensures the SE30’s body will match the mechanical perfection happening under the engine lid.
When complete, the car’s exterior will have:
Rich, accurate SE30 “Rosso Diablo” paint
Mirror-smooth clear coat
Restored lines and crisp panel edges
This level of finish ensures authenticity while making the car look as if it just rolled out of Sant’ Agata 30 years ago.
Where the Restoration Stands Today
With the V12 now running beautifully and the bodywork nearing completion, the project has reached its home stretch. Once the paint cures and final reassembly begins, we’ll bring together all remaining details: trim, interior refinement, lighting, alignment, and comprehensive road testing.
Conclusion: Honoring a Rare Supercar
Restoring a Diablo SE30 isn’t just another repair order — it’s a responsibility. At Wistar Motors, our goal is always to preserve history without compromising authenticity. With its engine rebuilt to perfection, its bodywork restored by trusted experts, and the final touches underway, this SE30 is well on its way to reclaiming its rightful place as a masterpiece of Lamborghini performance and design.