One of only four right-hand-drive models imported into the UK has been rediscovered and is being restored by Auto RARA
A Lamborghini 400 GT, one of just four cars originally imported into the UK by Mitchell & Britten in the 1960s, is being brought back to life by classic car restoration specialist Auto RARA. The rare Italian grand tourer has spent more than two decades hidden in a private garage, making it one of the most exciting “barn find” discoveries in recent British motoring history.
The car is now undergoing a full restoration at Auto RARA’s Derbyshire-based workshop and will make its first public appearance—partially restored—at this year’s Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace in September.
A Rare and Important Find
The Lamborghini 400 GT, built between 1966 and 1968, was the successor to the 350 GT and featured a 4.0-litre V12 engine producing over 320bhp. With a top speed of 155mph and advanced features for its time—including a synchromesh gearbox even on reverse gear—it established Lamborghini as a serious rival to Ferrari in the GT market.
Only 247 examples were ever built. Of those, just four were converted to right-hand drive by renowned British coachbuilder Hooper & Co for UK distribution. The car now being restored by Auto RARA—chassis number 0946—was one of those four, and it has not been seen publicly in more than 20 years.
The Allure of the Barn Find
The discovery of “barn find” vehicles—classic cars left forgotten in storage—has become increasingly significant in the UK. These vehicles often retain much of their original specification and patina, making them valuable both financially and historically.
“These finds are becoming more rare,” says David Stubbs, founder of Auto RARA. “But when they do emerge, they add genuine richness to the UK’s classic car scene—particularly when the car is such a rare example.”
Restoration in Stages
Auto RARA follows a multi-phase restoration process designed to combine originality with reliability and longevity:
- Assessment and Documentation – Including chassis verification and historical research.
- Disassembly and Structural Repair – Ensuring the body and frame are sound.
- Mechanical Overhaul – Rebuilding the V12 engine, gearbox, suspension and brakes.
- Interior and Trim Restoration – Using original materials and finishes where possible.
- Paintwork and Final Assembly – Returning the car to its original Maroon over cream leather specification.
- Testing and Commissioning – Road-tested and MOT-ready for modern use.
App-Based Communication with Clients
In a modern twist, Auto RARA uses a mobile app to deliver daily updates to clients. Each stage of the restoration is documented through high-resolution photos, videos, and notes that are timestamped and stored in the car’s digital “build diary”.
“Transparency is crucial,” says Stubbs. “We want our clients to feel part of the process, and the app gives them that visibility in real time.”
A Preview at Hampton Court
The restoration is still underway, but the car will appear in its current, partially restored state at the Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace from 5–7 September 2025. It will be part of a special display focusing on restoration craftsmanship, allowing visitors to see the process up close.
The car is expected to be fully completed by early 2026, at which point it will be eligible for showing at major international concours events.
A Future Investment in Heritage
Once completed, the Lamborghini 400 GT is expected to command a market value in excess of £450,000, thanks to its rarity and the quality of its restoration. But for Auto RARA, the project is about more than money.
“This is about preserving heritage,” says Stubbs. “We’re restoring not just a car, but a chapter of motoring history that almost slipped through the cracks.”
For more information about Auto RARA and its restoration projects, visit autorara.com.
