Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder


Everybody was waiting for it and it seems now it happened: here is the Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder LP 560-4 Spyder, the new convertible based on the latest coupe from the Italian manufacturer. The new spyder carries the same 5.2-liter V10 engine delivering 560 hp and 540 Nm, offering a top speed of 324 km/h (201 mph) while the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) will be made in 4 seconds.

Stopping the vehicle will not be a problem due to the 380 brake discs on the front and 256 mm on the rear, hidden behind the 19 inch alloy wheels wrapped in high performance tires. Regarding the new soft top, this will transform your car in a convertible in less than 20 seconds.
[source worldcarfans via auto-motor-und-sport]

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport

Molsheim/Pebble Beach, August 16, 2008 – The world's most significant celebration of the automobile takes place annually in Monterey, California. This year, it will see some of the most elegant, exclusive, and valuable vehicles ever produced in over 100 years of motoring, with Bugatti set to play a prominent role. On the evening prior to the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, the highlight of the event, the marque renowned for impeccable automotive solutions, aesthetics and driving dynamics will unveil a second model to the world – the new Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport with a unique removable roof.

In response to customer demand, significant modifications have been made to the vehicle's complex structure to make possible open-top driving, thereby adding a new dimension to this high-performance sports car. Incorporating a host of new and innovative safety and equipment features, it is the world's fastest and most exciting roadster. It is immediately recognizable as a result of its slightly higher windscreen, stylized daytime running lights, and lightweight, transparent polycarbonate roof.

The main challenge in developing the new Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport with removable roof resulted from the unique structure of the fixed-roof Bugatti Veyron. An optimum combination of rigidity and lightweight engineering ensures the monocoque passenger cell of the original model is extremely strong while weighing an absolute minimum – it is a central element of the vehicle's structure. As the roof is an integral part of this, removing it meant the load paths had to be completely redesigned to maintain the vehicle's rigidity and crash safety, and to offer additional protection from side impacts and rolling.

As a result, the monocoque structure has been reinforced around the side skirts and the transmission tunnel. The B-pillars have been cross-stiffened using a carbon fibre support, and a central carbon plate has been positioned beneath the transmission tunnel to ensure the vehicle suffers from less torsional flexing than any other roadster.


The doors of the new Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport are made of carbon fibre, and house an integrated longitudinal beam.

In the event of an accident, this transfers the load from the A to the B-pillar, thereby dissipating impact energy. Furthermore, the two redesigned air intakes for the 16-cylinder mid-engine now feature 10-centimetre wide carbon-fibre elements to offer protection should the car roll.

Along with moisture-resistant, backstitched leather, a range of new equipment features has been added to the interior, including a reversing camera with 2.7-inch monitor in the rear-view-mirror, and the "Puccini" sound system with digital signal processor. When the roof is closed, the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport can reach 407 km/h, while speeds of up to 360 km/h are possible with roof off. Should it rain, an innovative folding roof stored in the luggage compartment can be opened up like an umbrella at any time. When this
folding roof is in place, the car can travel at up to 130 km/h. Assembled by hand at the company's headquarters in Molsheim, Alsace, the Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport will be available from March 2009 at the price of 1.4 million euros (excluding tax). Just 150 examples will be made, with the first 50 of these going exclusively to registered Bugatti customers. The first vehicle is certain to be highly sought after, and Bugatti has taken the decision to donate this specific car to charity. It will be sold to the highest bidder at the Pebble Beach Auction presented by Gooding & Company

2008 Ferrari F430 Race by Novitec Rosso

707 hp, 712 Nm, 0 – 100 60 mph in 3.5 seconds, a top speed of 216 mph and extremely sporty interior appointments: Those are the most important characteristics of the Ferrari F430 RACE from NOVITEC ROSSO, the world’s leading tuner of sports cars from Maranello. The NOVITEC ROSSO two-seater is one of the world’s fastest and most powerful street-legal cars and starts at 193,277 Euros MSRP ($295,365).

At the heart of the snow-white racer featuring triple-design black stripes lies the NOVITEC ROSSO twin-supercharger engine in its latest evolutionary stage – RACE. Up to now, the eight-cylinder, four-valve engine with a displacement of 4,308 ccm and mechanical NOVITEC ROSSO twin superchargers produced 656 hp / 482 kW.

For an additional 51 hp / 38 kW of power the components were again modified extensively. The two belt-driven superchargers were fitted with different turbine vanes and maximum boost pressure was increased to 0.48 bar. Two generously dimensioned intercoolers with their own supply of cooling water lower the temperature of the charge air for maximum power yield.

The Ferrari engine is further fitted with an entirely new heat-insulated intake manifold with larger ports and high-performance air filters. A special air duct in the underfloor routes cooling air to the engine. The injection system is fitted with larger injection nozzles. On the exhaust side, low-pressure sport catalysts and the NOVITEC ROSSO stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with electronically controlled flap ensure optimal gas evacuation.

The electronic engine management coordinates the flawless interaction of the tuning components with newly programmed mapping for ignition, injection and on-board diagnostics, and ensures clean emissions that meet EURO IV limits. Enlarged cooling systems for water and oil guarantee the engine’s thermal health. Also contributing to the thermal well-being are the NOVITEC ROSSO exposed carbon-fiber breather grilles on the hood. The carbon-fiber engine bay cladding provides an attractive backdrop for the performance tuning.

The NOVITEC ROSSO RACE twin-supercharger conversion, available for all Ferrari F430 coupes at a cost of 51,260 Euros, boosts maximum power output by 217 hp / 159.7 kW over the production engine. 707 hp / 520 kW at 8,350 rpm and a peak torque of 712 Nm at 6,300 rpm elevate the F430 RACE to a performance level attained only by a select few, markedly more expensive super sports cars.


The sprint from rest to 100 km/h is shortened by half a second to 3.5 seconds. After just 10.5 seconds the car reaches 200 km/h. The 300-km/h barrier is shattered after 29.9 seconds. In combination with longer gear ratios available upon request the top speed grows from 315 km/h to 348 km/h.

To be able to safely control this enormous performance potential at all times NOVITEC ROSSO also modifies aerodynamics, tires, suspension and brakes.

Like all other body components the NOVITEC ROSSO front spoiler was developed in the wind tunnel. It is attached to the underside of the production front apron. It lends the F430 an even more aggressive frontal appearance and reduces lift on the front axle.


The sides of the mid-engine sports car are refined with NOVITEC ROSSO rocker panels. The NOVITEC ROSSO rear diffuser is custom-tailored to the standard venturi tunnel and increases downforce on the rear axle. Upon customer request a rear wing can be added as well. Black-tinted taillights and lateral turn signals complete the sporty RACE looks.

20-inch wheels instead of the standard 19-inch wheels: The three-piece NOVITEC ROSSO NF3 double-spoke wheels in sizes 8.5Jx20 in front and 12Jx20 on the rear axle fill out the F430 wheel houses perfectly. High-performance tires in sizes 235/30 ZR 20 and 325/25 ZR 20 come from technology partner PIRELLI.

Agile, safe handling is one of the strengths of the NOVITEC ROSSO sport suspension for the Ferrari, optimized everyday use the other. Contrary to the production suspension the front can be raised by 40 millimeters at the push of a button to safely navigate past curbs, driveway entries and speed bumps. Once the car reaches a speed of 80 km/h the suspension automatically lowers itself back to normal position, about 35 millimeters lower than the production car. NOVITEC ROSSO sport stabilizers reduce body roll and provide even more direct turn-in.

The NOVITEC ROSSO high-performance brake system was developed in cooperation with Brembo. It features six-piston calipers with 380-mm vented and cross-drilled steel discs on front and rear axles. The brake delivers maximum stopping power and endurance.


NOVITEC ROSSO also offers custom options for the interior of all Ferrari F430 models. The flattened bottom of the leather/carbon-fiber sport-steering wheel facilitates entering and exiting the vehicle. The longer NOVITEC ROSSO carbon-fiber F1-style shift paddles are easy to use even during fast cornering. Among the attractive accessories are also an elongated center console, carbon-fiber scuff plates and the NOVITEC ROSSO Supersport seats that can be custom-tailored to the driver’s body. Custom interiors can be crafted in any leather and Alcantara colors and designs.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Monaco Supercars 2008

Some photos of exotics I have seen during my visit in Monaco this summer:





























Monday, August 18, 2008

Aston Martin One-77


Aston Martin has released a snapshot of the stunning new One-77; the ultimate creative interpretation of the renowned British marque.

One-77 fuses advanced technology with stunning Aston Martin design to create possibly the world's most desirable automotive art form. Based on a sophisticated carbon fibre chassis with a handcrafted aluminium body, this 7.0 litre V12 super car will deliver exhilarating performance for a strictly limited number of discerning customers.

Sunday, August 10, 2008

Bentley Brooklands

- The world's most exclusive coupe: limited to just 550 cars
- The most powerful V8 engine Bentley has ever produced
- Inspired by the exploits of the 'Bentley Boys' at the famous Brooklands racetrack
- Powerful, muscular and rakish with classic British proportions

Introduction
The Bentley Brooklands is a stunning new model that marks the company's return to the luxury coupe market and reaffirms its reputation as creator of the world's most exclusive coupes. It is the ultimate Bentley: a stylish, four-seat, grand touring coupe with classic British proportions and muscular performance.


Bentley's chairman Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen describes the motivation behind the new coupe: "Bentley's proud sporting pedigree, forged by the exploits of the immortal 'Bentley Boys' on the famous Brooklands racetrack in the 1920s, was the inspiration for our new coupe, capturing all the style, power and splendour of that era." *

Sporting design cues are matched by the phenomenal performance engineering of Bentley's legendary Crewe-built V8 engine. The new Bentley Brooklands possesses the most powerful V8 the company has ever produced - a 530bhp, twin-turbocharged 6.75-litre unit that also produces a prodigious 1050Nm of torque.

Each Brooklands coupe will be hand-assembled, employing traditional coach-building techniques and the craftsmanship skills in wood veneer and leather hide for which Bentley is renowned. To ensure exclusivity, lifetime production will be strictly limited to just 550 cars, with deliveries expected to start in the first half of 2008.

Exterior Design: Classic British Proportions
Bentley's rich coupe heritage provided the stimulus for Director of Styling, Dirk van Braeckel and his design team. For van Braeckel, the task was very clear: "To create a powerful, muscular and rakish grand touring coupe with classic British proportions, in the finest Bentley tradition."

While the new Brooklands is influenced by Bentley's fine coupe lineage, its design and engineering are thoroughly contemporary. The proportions of long bonnet, short front overhang and long rear overhang achieve the design objective perfectly, while the low roofline, steeply raked screens and pillarless side glass convey both power and movement.

As the Brooklands will be built in very limited volume, the designers were able to introduce unique features that necessitate specialist coach-building techniques, as Programme Director, Ashley Wickham, reveals:

"The Brooklands' beautiful flowing lines are testament to the traditional coach-building skills and craftsmanship of Crewe's highly talented workforce."

The 'floating' rear screen, for example, is a contemporary take on traditional coachbuilt Bentleys. The lower edge of the screen sits well above the upper edge of the boot lid to provide a flowing, flawless line to the back of the car. This can only be achieved by individually hand-welding the rear wings to the C-pillars.

The fitment of 20-inch diameter wheels as standard, signalling the surefooted, robust and dynamic character of the new model, reaffirms the powerful stance of the new Bentley coupe.

Interior Design: Peerless Craftsmanship with a Sporting Character
Dirk van Braeckel describes the mission for the Bentley interior design team: "To create the perfect Bentley coupe: sumptuous hand-crafted luxury with a distinctly sporting character."

As in every Bentley, peerless craftsmanship is to the fore, enhanced by the warmth and richness of the finest natural materials. To tailor for their individual requirements, customers may choose from an extensive palette of hides, veneers, carpet tones and seat belt colours.

Its four-seat architecture and deeply bolstered seats lend the Brooklands' interior a distinctly sporting atmosphere, complemented by design accents such as aluminium foot pedals and footrest. A new, single-piece, hide-trimmed roof lining flows uninterrupted from the front windscreen all the way to the rear of the car, mirroring the long, sleek profile of the elegant exterior.

The interior designers sought to offer the very highest levels of comfort and legroom, in true Bentley grand touring tradition, while the pillarless window design enhances the feeling of space.

The Brooklands' cabin is wider both front and rear than the previous Bentley Continental R coupe - the rear by 10 percent - and it easily exceeds the interior leg, knee and headroom of any luxury coupe on sale today. This allows four adults to be accommodated in supreme comfort. Individual rear seats with electrically operated sliding cushions, set further back than on the Azure, are separated by a new centre console, incorporating both storage and cup holders.

Most powerful Crewe-built V8 ever - 530bhp, 1050Nm
Beneath its muscular, rakish, coach-built body lies the most powerful Crewe-builtV8 engine ever produced, developing 530bhp. Maximum torque is an astonishing 1050Nm, the highest ever developed by a production V8 engine. Although performance figures are subject to final confirmation as part of the on-going development programme, the new Bentley coupe will deliver supercar levels of in-gear acceleration combined with Arnage refinement.

At the beginning of the project, Dr Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board, Engineering, tasked his power train specialists to deliver an extraordinary driving experience in the Bentley coupe tradition: "Exhilarating, effortless, accessible performance for those truly passionate about their driving was our prime objective."

Launched in the Bentley S2 saloon in 1959 with a capacity of 6.23 litres, the legendary, Crewe-built V8 engine has continually evolved. The first V8 was very advanced for its time with an all-aluminium construction, a five-bearing crankshaft and a well-supported camshaft, producing nearly 200bhp and 400Nm of torque. The result was a light and supple powertrain that produced maximum torque at low engine speeds, the hallmark of every Bentley ever produced.

1969 saw the capacity grow to 6.75 litres, where it remains to this day, but by far the most significant change came in 1982, with the introduction of a turbocharger to create the near-300bhp Mulsanne Turbo, a car that transformed the image of Bentley. In 1999, the single turbo engine, by now featuring port injection and charge cooling, was installed in Arnage, with twin turbos arriving in 2002, developing up to 450bhp.

For the 2007 model Arnage, the V8 engine saw a step-change in performance and refinement which became the starting point for the new Bentley Brooklands. A re-profiled camshaft and new, low-inertia turbochargers, which operate with greater efficiency at lower engine speeds have resulted in reduced turbo lag, enhancing that prodigious wave of torque at any revs, the hallmark of a true Bentley. These changes extend the power potential of the V8 in the Arnage to 500bhp and 1000Nm of torque. For the Bentley Brooklands, further component optimisation and engine calibration ensure record power and torque levels from this hand-assembled engine.

As with the latest Arnage, the V8 engine is mated to a six-speed transmission with strengthened casing that transforms the way in which both parts of the drive train communicate. A sophisticated, locking torque converter and ESP system ensure that the driver can readily access the prodigious power. A semi-automatic function allows manual gear selection for even greater driver control.

Saturday, August 9, 2008

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

The Style

Powerful elegance

A Lamborghini is and always will be a highly efficient athlete. Its extreme sensuality is based upon precision, performance and on spontaneous action. A Lamborghini’s elegance is that of stark, purist strength. This DNA of the Lamborghini brand is being continuously developed by the Centro Stile in every new car. Thus the Gallardo LP560-4 displays the precise lines and clean surface edges in its distinctly minimalist design. Ornaments or embellishments of any form are alien to it.

Evolution of form systematically follows the demands of function: the newly designed front of the LP 560-4 squats deeply to the ground which contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency. The enlarged and clearly accentuated cooling intakes meet the demands of augmented engine power thus increasing the air circulation vital to a vehicle as powerful as this. The spoiler, positioned low between the air intakes, improves aerodynamic equilibrium at high speeds.

Characteristic LED – Daytime running light

The new headlights have a characteristic ‘daytime’ running light integrated beneath the Bi-Xenon lamps: 15 diodes (LED) have been positioned in a Y structure. The same motif appears again in the rear tail-lights. The stop and brake lights have been inspired by the Miura Concept, the Murciélago LP640 and the Reventón and display the Y form three times over.

The completely redesigned rear gives the definition “powerful elegance” a new meaning: rear lights, air cooling vents, bumper and diffuser are arranged in precise positions on the car’s exterior, which make the LP560-4 appear extremely wide and bonded to the road surface. In addition, the streamlined covers left and right of the engine hood accentuate the powerful shoulders and lengthened, stretched lines of the new Gallardo.

Clearly improved aerodynamics

The rear diffuser has been newly designed, is more efficient with respect to its predecessor and, together with the smooth underbody, contributes to the excellent steering stability even at extremely high speeds. In sum, the aerodynamic efficiency with regard to output compared to that of its predecessor has been increased by 31 %. The Gallardo LP560-4 takes fast curves even more supremely.

The designers in Sant’Agata Bolognese have excelled themselves with the clear-cut, pure, stark lines of the Gallardo LP 560-4. They also have demonstrated distinct attention to detail; the elaborate aluminium cap for petrol and motor oil are testimony to this, as is the rear camera which has been integrated in a small fin in the independent rear spoiler as well as the finely-crafted grille in the exhaust pipes.

The body

Weight is undesirable in a sports car and a lightweight model encourages the dynamics of such a vehicle. Aluminium is much lighter than sheet steel and this is why the Gallardo LP560-4 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 1410 kilograms - which is, effectively, 20 kilograms less that 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. Thus the basis for the extraordinary handling characteristics of the LP560-4 is formed.

Integrated Pedestrian Protection system

The body of the car also demonstrates extremely high levels of ‘passive security’. The Gallardo LP560-4 fulfils the not yet obligatory European directives regarding the protection of pedestrians. Furthermore, the geometry of the entire front of the car has been optimised with the addition of a special combination of materials behind the front bumper which serve to absorb any impact energy.

The Interior

Luxurious individuality

Despite its low exterior height, the Gallardo LP560-4 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 sportscars. 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.

Workmanship of the highest quality

The Miura and the other models of the 60s were already characterized by the excellent quality of workmanship which lay far and above the general standards of that time. Lamborghini has continued this tradition and even today delivers automobiles of the highest standards. The Gallardo LP560-4 indulges with the highest quality, aesthetically pleasing materials. With regard to the leather interior, an array of different colours and stitching (also in contrasting colours) are available. As an optional, Lamborghini can deliver the Gallardo LP560-4 with a further choice of leather and Alcantara® interiors as well as Carbon Fibre Packages. Here, elements such as the air-conditioning surrounds, the control panel, the handbrake handle and the gear-stick surrounds are available in carbon fibre.

Furthermore, the individualisation program, Ad Personam, enables the customer to create any combination of colour and trim, thus creating a highly personalised vehicle. After all, the new Lamborghini should perfectly reflect the owner’s lifestyle.

The Engine

Extreme power in every situation

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.

The engine has a 5204 cm3 volumetric displacement which, with 8.000 rpm creates the extreme 560 PS (412 kW). This results in the excellent performance per litre of 107.6 PS/lt. At maximum torque output, the engine yields 540 Newtonmeter at 6.500 rpm. The ample torque curve guarantees outstanding thrust from every engine speed. With an acceleration of 3.7 seconds from 0-100 km/h and a maximum speed of 325 km/h, the Gallardo LP560-4 shoots into the orbit of the most extreme and powerful sports cars.

Despite the clearly improved driving performance of this super sports car, Sant’Agata’s engineers were nevertheless able to achieve a reduction in fuel consumption and CO2emissions by 18 per cent. Measured by engine power and performance, the Gallardo LP560-4 e-gear’s average fuel consumption of 13.7 litres per 100 kilometers, is extremely low.

Perfect weight distribution, class-leading dynamics

The engine in this new model lies lengthways in front of the rear axle – hence the model description Longitudinale Posteriore. The concept of the mid - rear engine is unbeatable in sports car production, with the centre of gravity being displaced next to the vertical axis, thus creating the car’s exceptional dynamics. Furthermore, it creates the basis for the Gallardo LP560-4’s perfect weight distribution with 43 per cent on the front axle and 57 per cent on the rear. In combination with the permanent four-wheel drive transmission, superior driving stability and road adherence are guaranteed in all situations.

Reduced weight for inspirational torque

The crank case of the new ten cylinder of Lamborghini Gallardo is produced with an aluminium alloy. Separate cylinder liners are not necessary with this technology: instead, the liners, due to their exposure to the hard silicone crystals during the production phase, are bored directly out of the material. The connecting rods are made out of wrought steel and the pistons are produced from an aluminium alloy. The consequent reduction in weight, inertia and in friction losses contributes to the car’s inspirational torque.

The engine is unusually wide for a V10, with a cylinder angle of 90 degrees. A definite advantage of this construction is the low centre of gravity. The reduction of the gravity centre height comes also from the dry sump layout of the lubrication system which also guarantees the reliability of the oil supply even during lateral acceleration and on the race-track.

Direct fuel injection improves efficient combustion

The new V10 uses the direct fuel-injection system “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata” as an innovative way to optimize performance results in part-load conditions. Here, the fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber through the laterally positioned injector. Combined with the use of a ‘tumble flap’ in the intake manifold runners, this solution guarantees an optimized distribution of the gasoline in the combustion chamber (higher gasoline density around the spark plug, leaner mixture close to piston and cylinder liners) and delivers the basis for a highly efficient combustion system even with stoichiometric mean mixture composition. The direct injection boosts the extremely efficient ‘full load’ performance of the V10, reduces its knock sensitivity and thus enables the very high compression ratio of 12.5:1. The cylinder heads have been optimised to deliver a very quick gas exchange and the variable valve control system on all four camshafts improves the charge efficiency across the entire engine speed range.

Transmission

Superior control four-wheel drive

Such extreme power must be brought onto the streets with extreme reliability. The driver of a Gallardo LP560-4 can thus rely on the four-wheel drive Viscous Traction (VT) system, with the ‘4’ in the model name a reminder of this. Lamborghini already introduced this system with the Diablo VT in 1993 – and for good reason: four actuated wheels achieve more grip than two and permit acceleration earlier in the curve exit.

The protagonist in the transmission is the central viscous-coupling which requires no electronic control. In this special Lamborghini configuration, the driving torque is distributed between front and rear – generally with a 30:70 front to rear ratio and, within milliseconds, adapts to even the slightest variations in road conditions. A mechanical differential on the rear axle provides up to 45% limited slip and an electronic differential lock at the front complete the four-wheel drive system.

Superior traction and handling

Not only does the maximum traction take advantage of the permanent four-wheel drive system, but also the car’s clearly superior handling. Each wheel can only transfer a certain amount of torque to the road. As the propulsion power is distributed onto all four wheels through the viscous traction system, more potential for directional control remains - and reserves in every situation distinguish a perfectly made sports car.

Despite all the engine thrust, changing gears in the Gallardo LP560-4 is one of the most exciting experiences of driving this vehicle. It is still the customer’s personal preference as to whether he wishes to change gears manually through the exact ‘gate’ guides of the six-speed gearbox via the short gear stick, or whether he prefers to let his fingertips control the e.gear’s paddle-shift system located behind the steering wheel: the latter solution becoming the preference of the majority of Lamborghini customers.

Gear change time reduced by 40 per cent

The automated e-gear transmission has been completely redesigned and improved in all aspects. The complete system has not only been reduced in weight, but the time employed to change gears has also been reduced by 40 per cent in “CORSA” mode. The driver may choose between five different driving and changing programs: in addition to the ‘normal’ mode, the Gallardo LP560-4 offers a SPORT programm with its even more rapid gear changing times and increased number of revolutions.

The CORSA program directs the engine to optimum acceleration. It permits a greater slip angle and also allows - with maximum safety - the full dynamism of the LP560-4 to be enjoyed even on a race-track. The ‘Thrust Mode’ ensures maximum acceleration from neutral while the angle of the throttle valve and the clutch are here optimally adjusted to one another. Finally the Automatic mode: here the engine changes gear in total independence and permits a particularly comfortable mode of driving.

The Suspension

High-tech parts with Lamborghini know-how

Even the Gallardo LP560-4’s predecessor was one of the world’s best super sports cars with regard to handling, precision and driving stability. However, the latest model provides an even more intense driving experience: the new suspension improves the car’s handling, its driving comfort and its directional stability at high speeds.

The Gallardo LP560-4’s space frame is uncompromisingly high tech. Its technical production was conceived from motor sport technologies. The double wishbones made out of aluminium with newly designed kinematics, while the springs and shock absorbers are tightly adjusted for grip.

The rear axle now has an additional track rod which further improves the excellent control of this super sports vehicle. Newly developed elements are the rubber-metal bearings - authentic high-tech parts - which clearly improve the special Lamborghini driving dynamics with well-chosen material combinations and cleverly defined assembly.

Extreme road adherence

The steering rack works with relatively little assisted steering support, thus bonding the driver closely to the road. This in turn provides him with an intense experience of power and impulse. The steering has its own cooling system for the power steering fluid.

Precise, breathtakingly fast, whilst stable and free from surprises, the Gallardo LP560-4’s dynamics assures a sensuous experience. The LP560-4’s tyres (format 235/35 ZR 19 front and 295/30 ZR 19 rear) appear to bond with the asphalt. Specially developed Pirelli P-Zero series tyres are fitted: these have a particularly low roll resistance which also maintains tyre wear at a minimum without, of course, any reduction in their performance quality. At a speed of over 120 km/h an independently extended rear spoiler increases the downforce on the rear axle It acts in association with the specially formed underbody which directs the airstream under the car.

Optional Carbon Ceramic Brake system

The new braking system acts with brute force. At the front, eight ‘Brembo specialist’ cylinder callipers grasp the 365 mm diameter brake discs. At the rear, four cylinder callipers act on the 356 mm brake discs. In addition, the new disc ventilation system improves the stability in extreme situations. Optionally, discs made out of Carbon Ceramic are offered. At the front the CCB (Carbon Ceramic Brakes) discs measure 380mm in diameter and at the rear 356mm. They deliver much improved performance at a reduced weight. In total, the CCB braking system is lighter in weight that, at the wheel, improves driving dynamics and comfort.

The interior and trim

With 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..


The possibilities and different combinations available in the Individualisation Program Ad Personam are almost inexhaustible. Behind this program stands the philosophy that a super sports car of this nature should, after all, reflect the personality of its owner by enabling him to completely indulge his expectations and wishes. As a consequence, extreme exclusivity is the trademark of Lamborghini’s individualisation program. “Think the Impossible” states the motto. Ad Personam offers a host of options in order that a customer may give the car an imprint of his own style with respect to the interior trim and exterior. A new highlight in the program are the following three exclusive matt colours: Nero Nemesis (matt black), Bianco Canopus (matt white), Marrone Apus (matt brown). The new matt colours underline the clearly defined and purist precision of the Lamborghini design.

Technical data

Frame & Body

Frame: Structural aluminium spaceframe, based on aluminium extruded parts welded to aluminium casted joint elements.
Body: Aluminium with thermoplastic ″hang on″ parts
Rear Spoiler: Electronically controlled
Mirrors: External mirror with electrical closing system
Suspension: Double wishbones front and rear suspension system, antiroll bar anti-dive and anti-squat
ESP 8.0: Full ESP System with ABS,ASR and ABD

Airbags

Front: Front Dual Stage driver and passenger airbags, side Head-thorax airbags

Wheels/Tyres

Tyres (Front rear): Pirelli Pzero 235/35 ZR 19 – 295/30 ZR 19
Wheels (front-rear): Aluminium alloy, 8.5″ x 019″- 11″x 019″
Steering: Power- assisted rack and pinion
Kerb-to-kerb turning circle: 11,50 m

Brakes

Steel brakes: Power vacuum, aluminium alloy callipers :8 cylinder front callipers and 4 cylinder rear callipers; Ventilated discs (front-rear) ø 365 x 34mm front –ø 356 x 32 mm rear
CCB brakes: Power vacuum, aluminium alloy callipers :6 cylinder front callipers and 4 cylinder rear callipers; Ventilated discs (front-rear) ø 380 x 38mm front –ø 356 x 32 mm rear

Engine

Type: 10 cylinders V90°, DOHC 4 valves, common-pin crankshaft
Displacement: 5204 cc
Compression ratio: 12,5 : 1
Maximum power: 412 kW (560 ps) at 8000 rpm
Maximum torque: 540 Nm 6500 rpm
Engine management system: Bosch MED 9
Cooling system: Engine and Gearbox radiator
Cooling system oil: Oil to Water cooler
Cooling system water: Two water radiators
Emission control system: Catalytic converters with lambda sensors
Lubrication system: Dry sump

Drivetrain

Type of transmission: Permanent 4-wheel drive with viscous traction system
Gearbox: 6 Speed + reverse, A optional, robotized sequential e-gear system with actuation by paddles on the steering column
Clutch: Double plate ø 215 mm
Rear Differential: 45% limited slip
Front Differential: Slip limitation by ABD function

Performance

Top speed: 325 km/h
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 3,7 sec.
Acceleration (0-200 km/h): 11,8 sec.

Dimensions

Wheelbase: 2560 mm
Overall length: 4345 mm
Overall width: 1900 mm
Overall height: 1165 mm
Track (front– rear): 1632 mm – 1597 mm
Kerb Weight: 1500
Weight distribution (front-rear): Front 43% - rear 57%

Capacities

Engine oil: 10 litres
Fuel tank: 90 litres
Engine coolant: 20 litres

Consumption with E-Gear

Urban: 21 L/100 km
Extra urban: 10 L/100 km
Combined: 14 L/100 km
Emission: Euro 4
CO2: 327 g/km

Consumption with manual transmission

Urban: 22 L/100 km
Extra urban: 10 L/100 km
Combined: 14,7 L/100 km
Emission: Euro 4
CO2: 351 g/km