A unique hardcore Lamborghini convertible concept is expected to provoke hardcore bidding action when it comes up for auction in November in New York with initial estimates ranging between $2-$4 million.

The Gallardo is the best-selling Lamborghini in the company’s history. Over 14,000 were built and sold over its 10-year lifespan.

Yet, when it first launched in 2003, dedicated Lamborghini clients felt that it was too safe, too predictable, too ‘German’ and therefore lacking in Italian flair. The company had been taken over by Audi and many Audi parts were used in the car to ensure reliability.

The Concept S was a visual rebuke to these criticisms. A Lamborghini should make people smile when they see it.

And when this Luc Donckerwolke-designed concept debuted at the Geneva motor show in 2005, it did just that.

An extreme interpretation of an open-top sportscar, it featured two cockpits, separated by a central dividing spine, and to ensure aerodynamics, the rearview mirror even disappeared into the body when not in use.

Reaction was such that the company attempted to put it into production, managing to build one working, completely road-legal model before the program was canceled due to the time and expense involved.

And it is this model that will be going under the hammer at the RM Sotheby’s, Art Automobiles sale in Manhattan on November 18.

The Concept S only has 180km on the clock, most of which were a result of testing, and has been with the same owner since new. It has an initial estimate of $3 million but expect the price on the day to go much higher.