Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

When the Lamborghini Gallardo was introduced in the U.S. for 2004, it marked the Italian automaker's return to an entry-level model, as the Silhouette and Jalpa models had in the 1970s and 1980s-both serving as V-8 brothers to the fire-breathing V-12 Lamborghini Countach. With 495 horsepower originally emanating from the 5.0-liter V-10, the Gallardo could only be considered "entry level" in its relationship to the range-topping big brother, the Murcielago, as performance was still strong enough to place it in the upper echelon of fine automotives.

The Gallardo was treated to a modest power bump to 512 horses years later, and then, a stripped-down, lightweight Superleggera version came out to compete with the Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale. Now, with the first examples of Ferrari's 430 Scuderia being delivered, the raging bull has once again grabbed their competition by the horns and upped the ante for the 2008 Geneva Motor Show with the new Gallardo LP560-4. The 560 means the amount of horsepower the car will have in European trim (the States only get 552 horses and 398 lb.-ft. of torque).

Style

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 Lambo 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 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560 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.

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.

Mechanics

The extra power is courtesy of a new, more efficient, all-aluminum engine with a displacement boost from 5.0-to 5.2-liters, which is the first volumetric increase the Gallardo has received since it first came out.

But power increases aren't the only name of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560 game. Lambo says the Audi-developed e-Gear sequential transmission has been improved by reducing shift times a full 40 percent. Changes also have been made to the front and rear valances since the front now provides for greater cooling and the rear incorporates a diffuser, and a reduction in C02 emissions also has been achieved. Other upgrades include a revised instrument panel, new headlamps and luggage area, and the claim of better driveability, stability, and handling.

Hitting the Tarmac

The 0-to-62-mph run is reduced from a Lamborghini claimed 4.0 seconds to just 3.7, and top speed is up from 196 to 202. Time from 0 to 124 mph also is down from 12.3 seconds to 11.8. The Lambo Gallardo LP560 outguns the Ferrari by 49 horses and 51 lb.-ft. of torque, but does give up 100 or so pounds to the Prancing horse Scuderia, despite a weight reduction of 44 pounds.

Interior

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 sports cars. There is space behind the seats for luggage, which complements the 110-liter 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.