The Diablo was presented to the public for sale on January 21, 1990. Its power came from a 5.7 L (348 cu in), 48-valve version of the existing Lamborghini V12 featuring dual overhead cams and computer-controlled multi-point fuel injection, producing a maximum output of 499 PS (367 kW; 492 hp) and 580 N·m (428 lb·ft) of torque. The vehicle could reach 100 km/h (62 mph) in about 4.5 seconds, with a top speed of 202 mph (325 km/h). The Diablo was rear-wheel drive and the engine was mid-mounted to aid its weight balance.

The Diablo came better equipped than the Countach; standard features included fully adjustable seats and steering wheel, electric windows, an Alpine stereo system, and power steering from 1993 onwards. Anti-lock brakes were not initially available, although they would eventually be used. A few options were available, including a custom-molded driver’s seat, remote CD changer and subwoofer, rear spoiler, factory fitted luggage set (priced at $2,600) and an exclusive Breguet clock for the dash (priced at $10,500).

price $	$239 000 USD
engine	60o V12
valvetrain	DOHC 4 Valves / Cyl
displacement	5709 cc / 348.4 in³
bore	87.0 mm / 3.43 in
stroke	80.0 mm / 3.15 in
compression	10.0:1
power	361.7 kw / 485.0 bhp @ 6800 rpm
specific output	84.95 bhp per litre
bhp/weight	bhp per tonne
torque	580.3 nm / 428.0 ft lbs @ 5200 rpm
redline	7500 rpm
body / frame	Aluminum, Composite & Steel
driven wheels	Mid Engine / RWD
front tires	F 245/40ZR-17
rear tires	R 335/35ZR-17
front brakes	Vented Discs w/Vacuum Assist
f brake size	x 330 mm / x 13.0 in
rear brakes	Vented Discs w/Vacuum Assist
r brake size	x 284 mm / x 11.2 in
front wheels	F 43.2 x 21.6 cm / 17.0 x 8.5 in
rear wheels	R 43.2 x 33.0 cm / 17.0 x 13.0 in
steering	Unassisted Rack & Pinion
curb weight	1642 kg / 3620 lbs
wheelbase	2650 mm / 104.3 in
front track	1540 mm / 60.6 in
rear track	1640 mm / 64.6 in
length	4460 mm / 175.6 in
width	2040 mm / 80.3 in
height	1105 mm / 43.5 in
transmission	5-Speed Manual
gear ratios	2.31:1, 1.52:1, 1.13:1, 0.89:1, 0.68:1, :1
final drive	2.41:1
top speed	~325.1 kph / 202.0 mph
0 – 60 mph	~4.5 seconds
0 – 100 mph	~10.8 seconds
0 – 1/4 mile	~13.3 second