Being the successor of the Lamborghini model of all time, the new V10 evolution of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 has set a new standard in the sports car realm.
Having the 5.2 litre raging V10 engine with an output of 560 PS (412 kW) at 8,000 rpm, the engine of the Gallardo LP560-4 is a completely new development. All that remains of the original V10 is the number of cylinders which, in this performance category, create a perfect and unique synthesis of torque, force of movement, sporty nimbleness, compact size and low weight.
With the four-wheel drive transmission and new suspension, the model accelerates from 0-100 km/hour in 3.7 seconds where the speed can reach 200 km/hour at 11.8 seconds with the maximum speed lies at 325 km/hour. Despite such splendid engine performance, the presence of “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata” – the engine’s direct fuel injection system – has the potential to reduce the fuel consumption and C02 emissions by 18 percent.
The engine in this new model lies lengthways in front of the rear axle as represented by the model LP. The LP stands for Longitudinale Posteriore, Italian words literally mean “the engine is back there.”
The concept of the mid – rear engine is unbeatable in sports car production. The centre of gravity being displaced next to the vertical axis creates the car’s exceptional dynamics. It also creates the basis for the Gallardo LP560-4’s perfect weight distribution with 43 percent on the front axle and 57 percent on the rear. In combination with the permanent four-wheel drive transmission, superior driving stability and road adherence are guaranteed in all situations.
Being a more aggressive yet cleaner design, the LP560-4 has the new headlights having a characteristic daytime running light integrated beneath the Bi-Xenon lamps. This new Bi-Xenon headlights are slightly wider than the previous model in a way that15 diodes (LED) have been positioned in a Y structure.
The same motif is also seen in the rear taillights. Inspired by the Miura Concept, the Murciélago LP640 and the Reventon; the stop and brake lights display the Y form three times over. And with the rear lights, air cooling vents, bumper and diffuser being arranged in precise positions on the car’s exterior, the LP560-4 appears extremely wide and bonded to the road surface. Those taillights are part of cleaner rear end design that features a seamless engine vent and new quad exhaust tips. The changes, compared with previous models, might look small; but Lamborghini has done an excellent job in bringing up to date a design that didn’t need much fixing in the first place.
Evolution of form systematically follows the demands of function: the newly designed front of the LP 560-4 squats deeply to the ground contributing to its aerodynamic efficiency. Not to mention the spoiler, which is positioned low between the air intakes, that can improve aerodynamic equilibrium at high speeds.
Notwithstanding that weight is undesirable in a sports car; a lightweight model encourages the dynamics of such a vehicle. Aluminium is much lighter than sheet steel and this is why the Gallardo LP-560-4 is produced with a body in a much lighter but nevertheless more stiff structure: the two-seater car measures 4.34 metres in length, 1.90 metres in width and a mere 1.16 metres in height. It weighs in dry at 1,410 kilograms, which is 20 kilograms less than that of the previous Gallardo.
The construction of the Gallardo LP560-4 utilises what is known as a ‘spaceframe construction method’. Integrally moulded node elements and extruded parts create its frame, and sheet metal plates made out of aluminium have been neatly and securely integrated to form the body. The body is not only extremely light but also torsionally stiff and displays the highest safety characteristics.
With the car’s attractive stunning lines, a Lamborghini is more than just a sports car. The classic design of both interior and exterior symbolizes a sensuality that is based upon precision. Likewise, the Gallardo LP560-4 displays the precise lines and clean surface edges in its distinctly minimalist design.
Despite its low exterior height, the car welcomes its passengers with a spacious interior. The sports seats are covered with either fine leather or Alcantara® (upon request) and provide secure adherence and support. The position of the seats is very low, typical for sports cars. There is space behind the seats for luggage which complements the 110 litre front trunk.
The wide middle console is one of the elements which characterizes the impression of sporty dynamism in the interior. It accommodates the standard Lamborghini multimedia system as well as the air conditioning which can be regulated on both the driver’s and passenger’s sides. Between both of these elements lies a newly designed module consisting of classically elegant flip switches. Seven round instruments in the cockpit with a new graphic provide the driver with essential engine data and a multifunctional display between the speedometer and revolution counter provides the driver with important information.
The Gallardo LP560-4 Lamborghini provides its customers with a generous and sporty standard equipment package. Direct from the production line, a customer will find included in his vehicle passenger and lateral air-bags; a two-zone air-conditioning system with sun regulation; The Lamborghini Multimedia System including an USB connector; and sports seats with an electronically operated backrest. In addition to this, the interior trim includes fine leather and Bi-Xenon headlights with LED daytime running light. The car is supplied with new “Apollo” wheels as standard.
A large variety of options increases the interior comfort of the vehicle, including a navigation system and a module for TV reception, a hands-free Bluetooth® phone set, an anti-theft device and a rearview camera. A further option is the lifting system control of the front of the vehicle which, at the touch of a button, is raised to enable driving over obstacles. The new polished cross wheel rims ‘Cordelia’ or the black Y-rims ‘Callisto’ complete the options range. Finally, the engine hood made from glass creates a showcase for the heart of the Gallardo LP560-4.
Published in the 4th edition of PMR Magazine S’pore, March 2009.
