Lamborghini Miura Crash: How the Supercar Nearly Took Miles Davis’ Life
Bottom line up front: In 1970, jazz icon Miles Davis veered off a New York City street while driving a Lamborghini Miura, a near‑fatal accident that shocked the music world.
Lamborghini Miura Crash: How the Supercar Nearly Took Miles Davis’ Life
Image: Lamborghini Miura Crash: How the Supercar Nearly Took Miles Davis’ Life – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
The Miura is often called the first true supercar. Its low, wedge‑shaped body and scissor doors turned heads wherever it rolled. Celebrities like Eddie Van Halen, Peter Sellers, and Elton John were regular sight‑seers, and Davis added his own flair by pairing the orange paint job with a silk scarf.
Performance & Mileage
Under the sleek hood sits a 3.9‑liter V12 that cranks out roughly 350 hp. The engine’s high‑rev nature made the Miura a thrill‑seeker’s dream, but it also demanded respect on city streets.
- 0‑60 mph in about 5.5 seconds
- Top speed near 171 mph
- Real‑world city mileage: 8‑10 mpg
On that fateful night, the combination of a powerful V12 and narrow Manhattan traffic proved deadly. Davis lost control, the car skidded off the road, and the impact left him with serious injuries.
Price & Rivals
When it debuted, the Miura cost roughly $20,000 (about $140,000 today). Its main rivals were the Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona and the Porsche 911 Carrera RS. While the Miura offered unmatched style, its price and raw power made it a niche choice for the ultra‑wealthy.
| Engine | 3.9 L V12 |
|---|---|
| Mileage | 8‑10 mpg (city) |
| Price (1970) | $20,000 |
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FAQ
What was the mileage of the Lamborghini Miura?
The Miura averaged about 8‑10 mpg in city driving, typical for high‑performance V12 cars of its era.
Is the Lamborghini Miura worth buying today?
For collectors, the Miura remains a priceless piece of automotive history, but its maintenance costs and low fuel efficiency make it impractical for everyday use.
Did Miles Davis ever drive another supercar after the crash?
After his recovery, Davis stayed away from high‑performance cars, preferring more modest transportation to focus on his music.
What do you think about the Miura’s legacy? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
