Professional wrestler and actor John Cena, renowned for his roles in the WWE and on the big screen, has always had a penchant for unique cars. He's even set to star in a film adaptation of Mattel's Matchbox toy car line.
Yet, one of Cena's vehicles may surprise fans: a Lamborghini Diablo VT Roadster clone, which the celebrity admits has been one of his worst financial decisions.
22 years in the making
Cena’s Diablo replica has been a project spanning over two decades.
Originally built by a company in Saskatoon, Canada, the car is based on a custom-made chassis. And despite being a labour of love, Cena has humorously called the endeavour his “worst financial decision,” with an estimated total spend of US$500,000 (around NZ$800k).
The car, however, is now being listed for sale after 22 years of ownership, providing one lucky bidder with the opportunity to take on this unusual project.
BMW heart in a Lambo body
While the exterior and interior mimic a genuine Diablo, the powertrain is distinctly different. This replica is powered by a 5.0-litre V12 engine, sourced from a 1988 BMW 750iL, giving it a unique flavour.
Paired with a five-speed manual transmission from a Porsche, the vehicle is said to be in good running order, despite having only travelled 69km since completion.
The Diablo clone’s performance components include steering from a 2000 Chevrolet Camaro and brakes from a C5 Corvette. Despite being a Frankenstein’s monster of car parts, it’s impossible to deny that the replica manages to capture the spirit of the original Lamborghini.
Near perfection
One of the most striking aspects of the replica is the attention to detail in its appearance.
The deep blue fibreglass body panels, 18-inch polished alloy wheels, and Lamborghini centre caps add to its authenticity. Fitted with Pirelli P Zero Asimmetrico tyres (235/35 at the front and 335/30 at the rear), this car may look like it’s ready to storm a track.
The Diablo clone features a dashboard and cabin design that mirror the genuine article, complete with round gauges, a gated manual shifter and white leather bucket seats.
In a recent episode of the Bring a Trailer podcast, Cena discussed the replica, revealing just how much money and time he’s poured into the car. “It’s probably my worst financial decision,” he said, laughing about the process of upgrading and modifying the car for over two decades.
If you’re curious to see this $500,000 creation up close, it’s currently up for auction on Bring a Trailer, with bids already reaching $75,000 with three days to go. Could this be your chance to own a piece of automotive and celebrity history?
