Lamborghini Murciélago

If ever there were an appropriate phrase to describe the illustrious Lamborghini Murcielago it’s "pure, unadulterated lust on four aesthetically perfect wheels". The Lamborghini Murciélago is equipped with a 6.2-liter, 12-cylinder, 580 horsepower engine that can accelerate it to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, power transferred to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox and an all-wheel-drive system. The car is crazy fast, drop-dead gorgeous and creates a mechanical symphony more pleasing than anything this side of a Ferrari Enzo.

The latest version of this highly successful super-sports car features some considerable innovations in terms of body design and mechanics. And also with a slightly new variation in name: The Lamborghini Murciélago LP640, which refers to its engine position— (the Italians call it “longitudinale posteriore”)— and to its power 640 hp. Designers and engineers have not only focused on reworking the engine, suspensions, gearbox, exhaust system, brakes and electronics, but also the interior and exterior design; improvements that make the Murciélago LP 640 the most extreme and fastest sports car in its class, placing it at the very top.

In their reinterpretation of the Lamborghini Murciélago LP640, the designers at the Lamborghini Style Centre have remained true to the traditional Lamborghini principles of purism, sport and function. The Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 now appears even more aggressive, with the new front and rear bumpers contributing significantly to its spectacular appearance. The exhaust system terminal has been incorporated in the diffuser on the rear bumper.

Other innovations include the rear lights, which serve to further enhance the distinguishing features of the Lamborghini Murciélago LP640, making it unmistakable even at night. The design of the sides is also worth mentioning: while the area behind the air intake on the right side is practically closed, the left side features a vast aperture for cooling the oil radiator. Together with the aerodynamically defined front and rear, this proves yet again that the shape of a Lamborghini is dictated by function. More power and higher torque call for superior gearbox component performance. To meet these new demands, the new Murciélago LP640 features a modified six-ratio gearbox as well as a tougher rear differential and new axle shafts. On request, the e-gear automatic gearbox is also available equipped with the new dedicated “thrust” (acceleration program) mode. Just like its predecessors, the Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 features permanent four-wheel drive, based on the reliable Lamborghini VT (Viscous Traction) system.

For those wishing to flaunt the heart of their Lamborghini Murciélago LP640, on request an engine hood made of transparent glass can be supplied. The rear view mirrors and the windscreen wipers have been modified to improve aerodynamics and 'Hermera' light metal wheel rims have been added. The graphics of the instrument panel lights in the cockpit have been revamped. The interior upholstery also has a new look thanks to the lozenge-shaped stitching. The same design is recaptured on the upholstery on the door panels, on the panel between the seats and the engine compartment, and on the roof panel. While the area behind the air intake on the right side is practically closed, the left side features a vast aperture for cooling the oil radiator.

The Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 stereo system is well worth mentioning, the Murcielago LP640 being fitted with a Kenwood head unit featuring a 6.5" widescreen monitor and DVD, MP3 and WMA player. An optional navigation system is also available. Like its predecessors, the new Murcielago LP640 can be customized to a very large extent with special fittings and upholstery packages as part of the “Privilegio programme”. For example, the cockpit can be specified with a carbon finish applied to the air-conditioning control panel, the control lever console and the parking brake. The customer really is the eminent king or queen of all he or she surveys at Lamborghini these days.