Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

The new benchmark in the Supersport cars has a new code name: Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4. New Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, with completely new engine, the wheel drive and new permanent suspensions are the basis of superior performance compared to the previous model and an increased dynamism.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

The innovative design of the new Gallardo contributes to the special aerodynamic lines of cars Lamborghini: The combination of elegance and power is redefined in ways not known before.




The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 collects the inheritance model of Lamborghini's most successful of all time. As of 2003 approximately 7100 Gallardo left the factory in Sant Agata Bolognese.





The powerful soul of Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 is the new engine V10 5.2 direct injection stratified, capable of providing a power of 560 hp (412 kW) at 8000 rpm. The addition of 40 hp compared to the previous model and the reduction in weight of 20 kg improve the weight / power share reaching 2.5 kg / hp, thus increasing the performance: the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 reaches 0-100 km / h in 3.7 seconds and also the 200 km / h in 11.8 seconds, the maximum speed is 325 km / h.





The new engine also excited for its efficiency: despite the clear increase in performance, it was possible to reduce consumption and emissions of CO2 well, 18%.





Engineers Directorate of Research and Development Lamborghini have also improved traction, handling and stability at high speeds. The magazine wheel drive, new suspension, improved aerodynamics, lightweight equipment and optimization of friction contribute to the improvement of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4. The new Gallardo is thus like a sports car designed to ensure daily use in city traffic and long distances, and an exciting job on track.





In keeping with the DNA Lamborghini, based on power lines in terms of accurate and clean surfaces, the Centro Stile developed the design of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 through solutions essential and well defined.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

The evolution of form follows function consistently needs: the new front Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 to ensure a low attitude and contributes at the same time, increase aerodynamic efficiency. The air inlets, of wider increase air flow to the radiator, adapted to the increased engine performance. The spoiler on the bumper improves the aerodynamic balance at high speeds.


The new lights are below the bi-xenon headlamps, daylight made 15 LEDs arranged in the shape of a Y. The same pattern is reflected in the optical rear: The rear lights and brake lights inspired by the Miura Concept, the Reventon and LP640 and reproduce the form Y three times for each side.

The new rear completely redefines the concept of "power and elegance": the headlights, the air vent grilles, bumpers and the speaker are arranged along surfaces thoroughly studied to giving the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 greater development in one with horizontal the road. The new panels next to the bonnet are smooth and underline the mighty structure and elongated lines of the new Gallardo.


The rear diffuser, in the form redesigned, ensures greater efficiency and, combined with flat bottom, contributes to excellent running stability at high speeds. In general the aerodynamic efficiency has been improved by 31% compared to the previous model. The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 addresses the fast curves even more secure.




To the purist design combines the great care for detail design of Sant Agata Bolognese: the cap gasoline and oil made of aluminum and the rear-view camera, integrated in a small fin of the rear spoiler to activate , Or finely machined Grille inside the terminal of the exhaust are a witness.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

The new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 has an aluminum body in both light and rigid: the two-seater 4.34 meters long, 1.90 meters wide and 1.16 meters high weighs just 1410 kg, or 20 fewer than the previous model.




The structure is made using the technique of Space Frame. Mergers and extruded profiles are the backbone on which to integrate harmoniously plate’s welded aluminum. The body is so very slight, but at the same time very safe in the event of a collision, also guarantees a high torsional rigidity which contributes to a surprising handling.




Despite the limited height outside the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 welcomes its occupants in a spacious cabin. The sports seats are covered in fine leather or Alcantara and ensure a good containment. The position is extremely low, typical of sports cars. A bench behind the seats allows the housing part of the trunk and goes to supplement the 110 liters in volume of the front compartment.




The large center console is one element that contributes most to strengthen the concept of ergonomics in the interior. Inside is housed the Lamborghini Multimedia System and the automatic climate control dual-zone. Between these two units is positioned for molding a new design with classic and elegant lever switches. Seven instruments circular graphics renewed inform the driver about the condition of the engine, a multifunction display among speedometer and tachometer gives the pilot the most important information.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

Already the Miura and other models of the'60s were marked for a quality finish that exceeded the standards of that time. Lamborghini has strengthened considerably this traditional expertise and today produces high quality cars. Even in the new Gallardo can find Dear materials and refined.




For the internal upholstery there is a wide choice of colors and stitching, including a contrast. As an option for the Lamborghini Gallardo has provided equipment and enriched leather and Alcantara packages carbon fiber. In this case, elements such as the frame of the automatic air conditioning or the handle of the handbrake and the tunnel next to the exchange are made of carbon fiber.




In addition to customizing the program "individually" can satisfy any desire with respect to the interior finishes. The engine of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, mounted in rear longitudinal position, is completely new and represents the evolution of consistent propeller Lamborghini most successful of all time.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

Remains unchanged only the number of cylinders, 10 cylinders those that offer a perfect and unique synthesis between driving pleasure and agility sports. The engine with a displacement of 5204 cm3 produces an output of 560 hp (412 kW) at 8000 rpm, which translates into a specific power equal to 107.6 hp / lt. The maximum torque output from the engine of 540 Nm at 6500 rpm. The shape of the torque curve guarantees consumption surprising power to any scheme. With an acceleration 0-100 km / h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 325 km / h, the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 is at the top extreme sports cars.




Despite the significant increase in performance, engineers Sant Agata managed to reduce consumption and emissions of CO2 for this car by about 18%. If you look at the performance, consumption of 13.7 liters per 100 km with the Gallardo e-gear is extremely low.




The application of this technology makes it necessary to separate cylinder pipes, the pipes are directly drawn into the base through the merger of the machining that "size" of silicon crystals which ensure the proper running surface for the pistons.




With an angle between the cylinders of 90 ° is the obvious choice for technicians to reduce as much as possible the center of gravity of the V10 power plant. Even with the lubrication cup dry contributes to the same goal and providing an optimum lubrication under all conditions of use including use car on the track.




The fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber through an injector side. The Direct Injection layered guarantees a good performance as maximum engine power, reducing the sensitivity to detonation, this has allowed us to achieve an engine with a compression ratio of 12,5:1.




The driver of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 can always rely on permanent wheel drive and 4-wheel drive with viscous coupling, the number "4" added the name of the model means exactly that. The wheel drive was introduced by Lamborghini back in 1993 with the Diablo VT for a valid reason.




The wheel drive Lamborghini is achieved through a viscous coupling center, which needs no adjustment electronics, and will share the basic engine torque between front and rear under normal 30:70 ratio, but adapts over a few milliseconds in case of changes in driving conditions or road.




It is not only a draw traction advantage of the permanent four-wheel drive, but also the dynamic cross for the best performance handling. In fact each wheel can only transfer a precise quantity of force on the road. As the driving force is spread over all four wheels via the Viscous Traction, remains a potential for higher road holding and directionality in the curve. These reservations guaranteed in every situation index are a perfectly designed sports car.




A great deal of power available from the engine, the gear shift is one of the sensations of driving the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 more exciting. There is a choice between manual transmission, where the change is made through the exchange short lever that moves within the grid for selecting 6-speed gearbox or the exchange implemented and electro-gear where you can change gears using the 2 Postal levers behind the steering wheel, this choice preferred by the vast majority of Lamborghini customers.




The change implemented and electro-gear has been completely revised and optimized in each component. The change was not only reduced weight but also as times changed was reduced. Up to 40% in "travel". The driver can choose between five driving programs and changed over the position Normal is available with the program SPORT times changed and shorter regimes changed higher, both Copy-modes manual or automatic.




The 5th mode is called "travel" and in addition to the speed of change with a characterization even more aggressive can reach boundary conditions above the maximum limit to the ESP intervention. The "Thrust Mode 'ensures maximum acceleration firm operating independently from the position of the engine throttle, the race clutch and the regime changed.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

Despite the predecessor of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 was one of the best cars worldwide in terms of handling, precision and driving stability on the new car thanks to new suspension has managed to increase even more driving pleasure, comfort and stability at high speeds.




The aluminum chassis is certainly an example of high tech without compromise derivation of close racing. The double-arm suspensions made of pressed aluminum resulted in the creation of a new motion while the springs and shock absorbers have been reviewed to ensure a further improvement in the motor vehicle.




The rear suspension is fitted with a new rod for the control of TOE that allows a further increase of vehicle control. New bearings are also made entirely of rubber and metal that, thanks to the combined structure, enhance the dynamics of the Lamborghini cars.




The steering rack with minimal help from steering to the driver moves the right feeling with the road. The system has a power steerings dedicated to the radiator fluid power steerings necessary in driving sports car. The steering ensures an accurate guide, fast and secure, allowing live a thrilling experience to control the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4.




The tires, 235/35 ZR 19 and 295/30 ZR 19 on the rear were developed specifically to Lamborghini. They are the Pirelli P Zero with a rolling resistance very low and therefore contribute to the reduction in consumption without reducing performance. Reached the threshold of 120 km / h the rear spoiler to activate automatically increases the load on the rear interacting with the speaker that serves as a rear air extractor under the chassis.




The new facility provides an exceptional braking power thanks to the brake calipers eight-piston Brembo going to act on discs front diameter of 365 mm brake calipers and four-piston disc involved the rear of 356 mm.




For the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, Lamborghini offers a wide range of equipment. The standard equipment includes driver's airbag, passenger and side bags, automatic air conditioning with dual-zone radiation sensor, a sound system with an included USB connector, sports seats with electrically adjustable backrest, leather upholstery valuable in addition to this we have new bi-xenon headlamps with LEDs for the daytime running light. The new Apollo circles are characterized by design dual race.




Increase your comfort, a wide range of equipment including the optional navigation system, the module for TV reception, the plant speakerphone, bluetooth mobile phone, the burglar alarm and rear-view camera. Among the options you can also ask the adjustment of the front axle (lifting system) that allows the lifting of the body through the simple push of a button to facilitate the overcoming of obstacles. The offer is also complemented by polished circles Cordelia cross-breeds or by looking Callisto races with blacks "Y".




The engine bonnet with glass crystal can admire the powerful heart of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 as in a showcase.

Lamborghini Super million products

 With a new concept called Sesto Elemento launch, Lamborghini is known to shine in the big show and performance eclipsed other car brands.

After much speculation, the images on the same drip irritation to the extreme fans, Lamborghini has unveiled the secret of their latest concept the Sesto Elemento. The car emerged at the pre-exhibition event this year's Paris Motor Show, the Volkswagen Group's booth.

Elemento Sesto concept is built on the size of the Gallardo, with ultra-light weight due to structural bodywork is made from lightweight carbon fiber materials advanced. Vehicle weight display with very nice numbers, 999 kg, equipped with V10 engine with a capacity of 570 horsepower. This is also available on the engine model Gallardo Superleggera.

He Stepahn Winkelmann, president and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, said: "Lamborghini Sesto evident Elemento future of the super sports cars - ultra light weight, clever combination between high speed and exciting driving feel . We have read all the efforts and achievements in their technical design tricks to create excellent Elemento Sesto. "

Stepahn said Winkelmann, Lamborghini's ability to conquer the carbon fiber materials have contributed significantly to the success of this concept, in addition to the help of renowned experts in lightweight Audi AG. He said technical lightweight system is a core of any future super sports car which, to be just for high speed, reduces emissions. The future of Lamborghini car will be inspired by the form this Elemento Sesto.

Lamborghini to present Gallardo Bicolore Special Edition at Detroit Auto show

We all remember Lamborghini Gallardo SE unveiled at the 2005. The edition was limited to merely 250 copies and was offered with two-tone body paint. Now as the Gallardo is coming to an end, Lamborghini is looking to give its fans a few special edition options. First of all there will be Gallardo Bicolore special edition which is expected to be launched by 2011, most likely in the Detroit Auto show and deliveries are to start in February 2011.
Gallardo Bicolore will be offered with duotone color scheme, Callisto rims, and sportier interiors to Gallardo SE, with little increase (approx 20hp) in power. The potential buyers can opt for the color from two unnamed gray, white, yellow, orangeand green, which will always be combined with a continuous black roof. The special edition will be based on Gallardo LP560-4 edition.
Since it’s Lambo, the rumor mill is churning about brand preparing a Tricolore edition and there are reports about Lamborghini registering the Gallardo bicolor and Tricolore which gives little insight about brands plans. But, nothing is official as of now. As soon as the details will emerge, we’ll be back. Stay tuned for more.

Lamborghini Estoque

The first Lamborghini sedan: Lamborghini Estoque Concept. is a Supersport four-door that features hitherto unknown to the cars of the house of Taurus, while safeguarding the values unmistakable: to be extreme, uncompromising and unmistakably Italian.


Lamborghini Estoque

At the same time enriching the DNA of the brand with a versatility totally new offering four posts and a capacious trunk, this sport is suitable for everyday and goes perfectly with a multifaceted lifestyle.


Lamborghini Estoque

Despite being a prototype with high conceptual content, a show car built specially for the Paris Exhibition of 2008, already at first sight Estoque leaves no room for doubt: it's a real Lamborghini, a car from the unique style and unmistakable. The step along the road large, the large wheels with a low silhouette by strong aesthetic content express the creativity typical of the style Lamborghini.


Lamborghini Estoque

Besides revealing a totally new interpretation of essence of style Casa Del Toro, the Lamborghini Estoque is a concept car that shows clearly the way forward. This applies to the new elegance expressed stylistic originality of language, and is especially for the very concept of car it represents.


Lamborghini Estoque

Undoubtedly, the Lamborghini Estoque is the first sedan in the history of the House of Sant Agata Bolognese. In this regard, however, the term "saloon" would be correct only to indicate the number of doors.

Lamborghini Estoque

The Lamborghini Estoque exposed at the Paris Motor Show gives evidence of the strength of innovation, creativity and skill of stylistic Automobiles Lamborghini. Currently the House of Sant Agata Bolognese is collecting a huge market success with the Gallardo and Murcielago models for 2008 and expects to achieve the eighth record year of consecutive sales.

Lamborghini Estoque

The show car Lamborghini Estoque is one of several possibilities of setting up a third range of models in the house. In this regard, however, has not yet taken any concrete decision, either as regards the production of a third range or on the concept Lamborghini Estoque.

Lamborghini Estoque

From real Lamborghini, the Lamborghini Estoque course, leads a strong name derived from the world of Spanish bullfighting, "Estoque" means in fact the sword, about 90 cm long, that the matador uses in combat with the bull.

Lamborghini Estoque

Conceptually the Lamborghini Estoque expresses the idea of a Lamborghini that while Supersport is a high Caratage and a coach of great usability. From 4-door sedan, equipped with 4 individual sports seats, is suitable for many needs and situations of travel.

Lamborghini Estoque

The current models of Casa del Toro give continuity to the best tradition of the mark and the Italian automobile design of the 60 and 70, with perfect proportions and lines austere, rational, elegant and devoid of ornament.

Lamborghini Estoque

With the Lamborghini Estoque you travel so perfect for travel to a working meeting at the theater, the golf course or for a weekend with its family. It is also the only car that allows you to share with more than one person the extraordinary pleasure of traveling on board a Lamborghini.

Lamborghini Estoque

Despite its very Filante silhouette, with an overall height of only 1.35 m, Lamborghini Estoque is surprisingly spacious. The secret lies in the very long, allowing a comfortable sitting and sports, despite the position of the engine considerably behind front-Central. In addition, the large doors from the opening and allow access particularly comfortable.

Lamborghini Estoque

At the same time the Lamborghini Estoque sports car is a pure-bred, which offers high performance, precision driving and a high turbot exciting. E 'pleasant in all driving conditions, both on a mixed, narrow stretch of a mountain road is long distances on motorways. With its versatility of use, Estoque complete so the ideal range of Supersport to Lamborghini.

Lamborghini Estoque

Every Lamborghini should be recognizable at first glance like a masterpiece of design, unique and unmistakable. In this regard, the Lamborghini Estoque ago draws a single conclusion: "mission accomplished" - mission accomplished.

Lamborghini Estoque

Its proportions are just fascinating. No other car in a bride so convincing elegance line with the characteristics of sportsmanship that the car makes its height and width reduced impressive. In figures: the new showcar painted in dark gray measure 5.15 m in length, 1.99 m in width and just 1.35 m in height. The passage of the wheels of 3,01 m contributes to the elegance of the forms of the car.

Lamborghini Estoque

The bonnet front plate, the pitch along the narrow side windows and sloping tail that ends with a cut express negative because the typical style of coach of the Italian school, but interpreted in a modern way. The front of the Lamborghini Estoque is characterized by a marked arrow angle and two bulky air inlets facing forward, interconnected by a small front spoiler, which bring in clear evidence of the sports car and its belonging to the family of supercar the Lamborghini.

Lamborghini Estoque

The architecture delivered by sports car was produced by providing the engine-central front in a very backward. Result: despite the very flat configuration of the front hood, the Lamborghini Estoque is perfectly in line with all safety and protection of pedestrians. The front hood of the Lamborghini Estoque highlights the position of the engine due to the presence of two huge holes out air and with the strong camber in the middle. Further air extractors are located in the front fenders, behind its wheel.

Lamborghini Estoque

Even the front wheels from 22 inches in the new five-spoke design doubles contribute to highlight the power that the car forward with the permanent wheel drive.

Lamborghini Estoque

The proportions ensure a presence at the impressive Lamborghini Estoque, whose wise definition of lateral lines gives a tremendously athletic aspect to the body. The flow of force from the engine that moves the bulky rear wheels of 23 inches is highlighted by a sturdy belt line below the line of crystals and a further bottom-line slightly toward the rear and the shaping of the pillars marked guards.

Lamborghini Estoque

The extraordinary dynamic connotation of the side is completed by the shape rear culminating with a pronounced trend 'negative' down and that adds tension to the whole of the car, making it appear in motion even when it stops.

Lamborghini Estoque

All these lines clearly defined concave enclosing spaces and spaces convex wisely proportionate and precise, giving the Lamborghini Estoque a strong personality style designed by Centro Stile Lamborghini.

Lamborghini Estoque

The formal logic of the car has completed the configuration Filante and very wide at the back. The width of the tail is also accentuated by the graphics horizontal rear LED lighting and the massive air vent covered by a grid. The elegant the rear is highlighted by finishing with a thin metal frame with chamfered edges slightly.

Lamborghini Estoque

The stylistic consistency of language is confirmed by several other finishing details, such as the presence on both sides of the car stop hexagonal fuel tank. The small tricolor flag on the front fenders, finally, highlights so refined that the country of origin of a car so original design can be only one: Italy.

Lamborghini Estoque

The great length of the passenger provides a very comfortable sitting on the four individual seats and important measure in determining the high comfort that this sedan has Supersport in long journeys. The stylistic features of the exterior aesthetic language are covered with appropriate adjustments in the car, for example in internal paneling of the doors and dashboard, designed with an angle of the arrow similar to that of the front.

Lamborghini Estoque

The material that dominates inside the skin is made of soft leather of highest quality. The four individual seats are fitted with a clear anatomical shape, offering an excellent comfort on trips long and numerous possibilities for adjusting electricity.

Lamborghini Estoque

The information concerning the operational status of the vehicle and walking appear to the driver on a large screen LCD. Depending on individual preferences you can set different modes of information display, for example by means of circulars or by conventional digital representation. The equipment inside is complemented by a sound system of high quality and an exclusive Rear Seat Entertainment System for rear passengers.

Lamborghini Estoque

As the cockpit, the luggage compartment of the Lamborghini Estoque is particularly spacious and can easily accommodate different golf bags or luggage.

Lamborghini Estoque

As a show car, the Lamborghini Estoque represents a proposed design based on a technical approach feasible with a number of interesting alternatives to the bodywork and mechanics.

Lamborghini Estoque

Like the models currently in production, the Lamborghini Estoque is equipped with permanent wheel drive, which divides the driving force of the engine always on the four wheels of the vehicle and in this way ensures excellent traction properties in any condition running, providing significant margins in sports riding very driven, and in case of difficult weather conditions. As dynamic variations and many parks in consumption could have a V8 paired with a hybrid form or a performance turbo direct injection.

2010 Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera - Click above for high-res image gallery

2010 Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera - Click above for high-res image gallery

The explosive burble from the V10's exhaust coming off the back straight seems powerful enough to vaporize insects in mid-air. The Howitzer-like concussions shock through the firewall and slam into our spines an instant before the combustive dissonance has time to reverberate off the outside wall and into our eardrums. The menacing acoustics force the other cars on the circuit to back off, while trackside spectators crane their necks to look up and cheer as the Lamborghini rockets by.




We're at California Speedway attending the "The Ultimate Lamborghini Experience." This annual event allows owners to play with their exotics in a controlled environment free of driving citations and other pesky... um, slow cars. Since we don't own an Italian exotic, we have to thank Lamborghini of Beverly Hills for graciously bringing along the automaker's latest and greatest. In this case, it's the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera.
Lamborghini has made thousands of Gallardos over the past eight years – it's the automaker's best-selling model. The various Gallardo iterations have included the all-wheel-drive Gallardo SE, matte black Gallardo Nera, topless Gallardo Spyder, lightweight Gallardo Superleggera, Gallardo LP 560-4, Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder, Gallardo Super Trofeo and the recent limited-production rear-wheel-drive Gallardo 550-2 "Valentino Balboni."

All pale on a race circuit when compared to the all-new 2010 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera.



Metamorphosing into the highest-performing Lamborghini Gallardo model to ever leave the assembly line in Sant'Agata Bolognese wasn't easy. Using a 560-4 as a base, Lamborghini painstakingly made dozens of changes to lighten the chassis, improve aerodynamics, refine the suspension and tune the ten-cylinder engine for more power. When it finally debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in early 2010, the newest Gallardo flagship was nothing short of spectacular.

At a glance, the 570-4 Superleggera is physically differentiated by its reworked front bumper with deep trapezoidal frames around the air intakes, a V-shaped nose and LED daytime running lamps. Lamborghini says the new fascia is functional, as it increases engine cooling and adds downforce to the front axle. The underbody, featuring a full belly pan, has new side sills, new tailpipes and a redesigned diffuser to improve aerodynamics. A small spoiler is standard, but a large wing for even more downforce is optional. There are new graphics on the sides and the ever-important identifying "LP 570-4" emblems in front of each rear wheel.



Under the paint, things are a bit more radical. As mentioned, the 570-4 Superleggera is based on the Gallardo 560-4 (itself a lightweight 3,108-pound platform). The new model retains aluminum spaceframe and body panels, but replaces many of the exterior components with lighter composite structures. Carbon fiber has been used on the rear spoiler, sills, diffuser, exterior mirror casings and underbody panels. Composites are also used extensively in the cabin. The center tunnel cover, door panels, transmission surround and sport seat shells are all carbon fiber (our model had an optional carbon fiber package that adds even more "lightness" to the cockpit). Even the "heavy" natural leather has been replaced by lightweight synthetic Alcantara. Still seeking to save more weight, Lamborghini fitted the 570-4 Superleggera with polycarbonate rear and side windows, and a polycarbonate panel over the engine. While the engineering team went seriously unhinged when it came to weight loss, the air conditioning and power windows were deliberately retained (one must not sacrifice comfort, says Lamborghini).

The aluminum double-wishbone suspension is left in place, but the shock absorbers are firmer, the anti-roll bars are stiffened and the mounting points have been reinforced. Standard brakes are huge iron rotors with aluminum calipers. However, our test car was fitted with Lambo's optional carbon-fiber ceramic brake package with 15-inch discs and six-piston calipers in the front, and four-piston units at the rear. The wheels are 10-spoke forged aluminum beauties secured by featherweight, but very strong, titanium wheel bolts. Special Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires are 235/35ZR19 in the front and 295/30ZR19 at the rear.



Mid-mounted in the 570-4 Superleggera is a direct-injected 5.2-liter V10. The engine features an aluminum crankcase, dry sump lubrication and a cylinder angle of 90 degrees (to help lower the center of gravity). With a compression ratio of 12.5:1, and several new engine software tweaks, the powerplant is now rated at 570 horsepower and 399 pound-feet of torque. The exhaust gasses go out quad pipes that are coated with a matte-black heat-resistant ceramic finish that keeps temps in check to avoid the lower panels from melting. The horsepower is sent through the automaker's six-speed single-clutch "e-gear" sequential automatic transmission connected to a permanent all-wheel-drive system, but if rowing your own is a requirement, a six-speed manual transmission is a no-cost option. The powertrain utilizes a central viscous coupling and a 45-percent limited-slip differential on the rear axle. Under normal conditions, the torque is split 30:70, although the bulk of the power is usually directed at the rear wheels.

Lamborghini says the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera will crack 62 mph in just 3.4 seconds. Even more astonishing is the fact that 0-124 mph falls in just 10.2 seconds, and this high-powered projectile won't run out of horsepower until it hits a tire disintegrating 202 mph.



Thanks to its very strict diet, the new "superlight" Gallardo is 154 pounds lighter than the Gallardo LP 560-4. That's right kids; the new Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera tips the scales at a mere 2,954 pounds, making it the lightest road-going model in the automaker's range. Lamborghini says there is no other model in its lineup that's as close to a true racecar.

And as you'd expect, none of this comes cheap. The base price of a 2010 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera is $237,600 (plus $2,995 destination and $2,100 in gas-guzzler fees). With a window sticker in hand, our test vehicle was equipped with the following options: Anti-theft system ($800), Superleggera Rear Wing ($6,500), Carbon Ceramic Brakes with black calipers ($15,600), Multimedia/NAV ($3,250), Rear View Camera ($2,600), Superleggera Floor Mats ($750), Carbon Fiber Engine Bay ($4,235), Travel Package ($750) and the Interior Carbon Fiber Package ($4,150). Punched into our solar-powered $3 calculator, the as-tested price is $281,330 (plus tax). You just had to ask.

With that out of the way, it's time to get back down to the business of driving.



The LP 570-4 Superleggera is low – silly low. Standing next to it, with both arms down to our side, it barely comes up to our elbows. With an open-face helmet capping our dome, we drop our six-foot, two-inch frame into the Lamborghini's exquisitely detailed womb. Our rear is firmly planted in the buttery-smooth Alcantara-covered cushion, while the top of our flat-black helmet presses firmly against the Alcantara headliner – we're literally wedged in place (for the record, we fit much better when we take a spin sans helmet later in the day). With our vertical movement apparently secured, we snap the three-point belt firmly to restrain forward movement. There's very little room for our left foot, but since this particular LP 570-4 only has two pedals, it's not a problem for both of our feet to share the tunnel's limited real estate.

The layout of the cabin is familiar to the Gallardo faithful, but the appointments have been upgraded. Snug in the lightweight Lamborghini's cockpit, it takes restraint to not run your fingers over the glass-smooth carbon fiber center console, the suede-like synthetic on the dashboard or the cross-hatch finish on many of the switches. The craftsmanship is stellar. Do not wear driving gloves while piloting the LP 570-4, lest the palms miss out on one of the most exquisite part of the machine: the deliciously shaggy thick suede sport steering wheel.



A traditional key slots into the right side of the steering column. With a twist, the 5.2-liter V10 spins to life. The "e-gear" takes a bit of instruction, but that's why we have Davy Jones sitting in our passenger seat (the 1996 24 Hours of Le Mans winner, not the lead singer for the Monkees).

As mentioned, we are sharing the track today with "The Ultimate Lamborghini Experience." As a result, there are dozens of Lamborghinis (mostly Gallardo and Murcielago models) in the paddock waiting for their turn at the circuit. The organizers are kind enough to let us out before the masses.

Without hesitating further, we press the "S" button on the center console and pull the right column-mounted paddle back to engage first gear (there's an "R" button to the left of the wheel, but since we are in the hot pits at California Speedway, we only need to go forward). The 570-horsepower engine, sitting about a foot behind our ears, resonates smoothly as we rumble past the observers and make our way to the hot track.



Our first few laps are under yellow as the corner workers get into place. We are familiar with the "Roval" at Cal Speedway, but or path today is awkwardly restricted by bright orange cones mid-point on the banked oval to keep everyone's speed down. Wisely, we use the first five minutes orienting ourselves with the Lambo's basic mannerisms. Except for a lack of outward visibility, it seems surprisingly docile and easy to drive at low speeds.

Green flag up. Accelerator pedal down. Responding to our right foot, the sequential automatic abruptly drops a gear and a deep roar emanates from behind our backsides. We are pressed and molded into our seatbacks like warm Play-Doh as the tachometer spins towards its 8,500 rpm redline. The second-to-third upshift is harsh and not particularly quick when compared to the best dual-clutch gearboxes, but it keeps us pinned in our seat grinning ear-to-ear as our velocity increases.

No more than 20 seconds later, we run out of banked oval as Turn 1 starts to fill our windshield. Strong on the brakes and the speed bleeds much faster than we anticipate (the huge ceramic discs like very firm pressure – the feel of the pedal perfectly mimics a race car). The 90-degree left is easy, as we are now going too slowly. We need to increase velocity for the upcoming right so we get back on the throttle. Caught off guard by our right foot again, the e-gear drops abruptly down to second gear and the back wheels momentarily break loose under the sudden increase in torque. The LP 570-4 Superleggera squirms a few times, and then briefly drops a wheel into the grass as we input corrective steering. This requires serious concentration.



Fed up with the e-gear's abrupt "logic," we find manually shifting via paddles to be much more effective, even if they are small and a bit hard to find in the heat of battle. Downshifts are accompanied by a super-sexy ten-cylinder throttle blip that takes your breath away (the lightweight acrylic windows let all the right sensations in), while upshifts are instantly delivered on command. Thanks to a center of gravity that requires a spatula to get under, the LP 570-4 lacks anything even remotely resembling body roll. Corner transitions are completely flat and quite mechanical, but the Lamborghini gives very palpable and welcomed feedback through its controls. Nothing is artificially overboosted.

It takes about five laps before we are comfortable. By then, we think we've figured it out.

The LP 570-4 Superleggera prefers to go in hot and take advantage of its huge brakes to bleed speed just before turn-in. It rewards light throttle in the corners, to keep the rear wheels at the limit of their adhesion, then generous power in the exits to utilize cat-like all-wheel-drive grip to pull hard out of the corners. There is plenty of available power. Oversteer is just a quarter-inch of throttle travel away at nearly any velocity. This is bloody fun.

And 45 minutes later it's over. They pry the keys from our hands. We weep.



Back in the pits, two impressions have stuck. First, the lack of mass helps immeasurably during initial high-speed turn-in. Whistling past the start/finish line at 150+ mph, we needed to drop down to 60 mph and make a tricky off-camber turn to get through the cone "barricade." Nearly every car we've ever had on this track needs to be handled with kid gloves when shuffled at those speeds. If not, the back end continues in its original trajectory. Not so in the LP570-4 Superleggera. We could grab the brakes and initialize our turn without worrying that the rest of the machine wasn't going to follow. Credit its low mass, low center of gravity, sticky tires and a wide stance. Second, it drives much smaller than it appears. We've had big cars on road circuits that seem to swell up when flogged (the Dodge Viper and Challenger SRT8 come to mind). The Lamborghini seemed to shrink. While it's no Lotus Exige, the Lambo's girth never prevented us from putting the tires exactly where they needed to go.

Lamborghini owners will scoff at this, but we half-expected the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera to drive like an Audi R8 5.2 V10 (no hiding the truth that they are heavy DNA-sharing cousins). In fact, most cynics will say that you can put the aforementioned Audi in your driveway for $100,000 less with nearly the same performance. Not so fast. The Audi R8 is damn near perfect, but it's no Lamborghini. The 570-4 Superleggera is lighter (by a staggering 761 pounds), shorter in height (by 3.4 inches) and in length (by 1.9 inches). The R8 5.2 is also down 45 horsepower (costing the Audi two full seconds in a timed race to 124 mph against the Lamborghini).



In all fairness, the R8 5.2 is a trophy-toting beauty queen while the LP 570-4 is an international supermodel – but let's ignore the ocular comparisons for now. The Audi is amazingly easy to drive fast, and just as easy to drive slowly. The German is comfortable, roomy and well-mannered. The Lamborghini is harder to drive, but faster and more rewarding at speed. The Italian is impeccably finished, but raw by design. To be more concise: The Audi can waltz, but the Lamborghini grabs you and does an R-rated Rio tango.

The Audi doesn't really compete with the LP 570-4 Superleggera, nor does the Aston Martin DBS or Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, for that matter. However, the upcoming Porsche GT2 RS may put up a good fight. We didn't check with Animal Planet, but our current research says the only true natural enemy of the LP 570-4 Superleggera could be the stunning Ferrari 458 Italia. Owners need not worry, as this Lamborghini will most likely never cross paths with any worthy adversary.

The 570-4 Superleggera is unquestionably the most talented Lamborghini on the road today. Fusing a highly-tuned powerplant and a sophisticated drive system to a lightweight chassis is what real sports cars are all about. Unlike its predecessors that seemed to possess more panache than event-winning medals, the all-new 2010 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera delivers astronomical performance that will not only land the coupe on the red carpet, but more often than not, on the top of the podium.