- UNMISTAKABLE DESIGN
- MORE POWERFUL ENGINE
- GEARBOX AND TRANSMISSION: IMPROVED EFFICIENCY AND STRENGTH
- ELECTRONICS: A «CLOSED LOOP» FOR TOTAL CONTROL
- FRAME AND CHASSIS: PERFECT HARMONY
- BRAKES AND SAFETY: OPTIONAL CERAMIC CARBON BRAKES
- INTERIOR: EVEN MORE EXCLUSIVE AND CUSTOMIZED
Technical Daa
Automobili Lamborghini appears at the Geneva Motor Show following a highly successful 2005.
Last year the “Casa del Toro” sold 1,600 automobiles worldwide: 1,071 Gallardo and 529 Murciélago cars (including 250 Roadsters), with a turnover of 243 million euros and realising a profit for the second consecutive year.
2006 will also be an important year for the Sant’ Agata Bolognese company.
The Geneva Motor Show has been selected by Automobili Lamborghini for the debut of another important product development: the new, more powerful Murciélago LP640 that will go on sale this spring.
The new Murciélago is being presented just a few months after the launch of the Gallardo Spyder, which accompanies the other open-top model in the Lamborghini range, the Murciélago Roadster. First deliveries of the Gallardo Spyder are imminent, with the response to this sports car so immediate that all 800 units to be produced have already been ordered by the 86 Lamborghini dealerships worldwide.
In Lamborghini tradition, the Gallardo Spyder is equipped with permanent four-wheel drive and has a powerful 5.0-litre V10 engine (EURO 4) with 520 horsepower at 8,000 rpm (the same as the Gallardo Coupé MY 06). The Gallardo Spyder reaches a maximum speed of 314 km/h and goes from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds.
The Gallardo Spyder is not just a topless version of the Coupé, but an entirely new model. Its design is clean and sharp, the result of perfect integration between stylistic and functional requirements. The Spyder’s truly innovative soft-top opening/closing system is effected totally automatically in only a few seconds, stowing the roof invisibly under the car’s engine cover.
Like all Lamborghini models the Spyder is offered with a comprehensive range of standard and optional features, from the automatic e gear to the rear video camera for facilitating parking. In addition, customers enjoy an opportunity to further customise their cars under Lamborghini’s “Privilegio” programme, which is also available on the Gallardo Coupé.
Today the Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder is considered one of the most ptivating open-top automobiles in the world, with no accident that a prestigious international jury voted it ‘The World’s Most Beautiful Car’ in the sports car category.
This honour will be officially awarded at the Triennale di Milano on 3 March 2006, at the start of the Geneva Motor Show.
As such, Automobili Lamborghini is a state-of-the-art company with a focus always maintained on the future, but without forgetting its heritage; so much so that it is reintroducing the “Miura Concept” at the Geneva show, a modern version of the legendary Lamborghini Miura. The original car was designed by Marcello Gandini and presented at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show (exactly 40 years ago) by Ferruccio Lamborghini and Nuccio Bertone.
Designed by Walter de’ Silva, Director of Design of the Audi Brand Group and the manager of Design Lamborghini, the Miura Concept is a prototype.
The Italian designer wanted to redesign each architectural and stylistic element without misrepresenting the car’s original form.
The concept car’s line, like the original model, remains extraordinarily pure. The designer has focused on improving the surfaces and eliminating superfluous details, in order to emphasise the clean shapes and proportions of the Miura.
The new version of this highly successful super-sports car features considerable innovations in terms of body design and mechanics. And also with a new name: Murciélago LP640, which refers to its engine position – 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.
The first vehicles will be available in spring 2006. Since the original Murciélago’s debut at the 2001 International Car Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, around 2,000 vehicles have left the car plant in Sant’ Agata Bolognese.
Unmistakable Design
In their reinterpretation of the Murciélago LP640, the designers at the Lamborghini Style Centre have remained true to the traditional Lamborghini principles of purism, sport and function. The Murciélago LP640 now appears even more aggressive, with the new front and rear bumpers contributing significantly to its appearance. The exhaust system terminal has been incorporated in the diffuser on the rear bumper. Other innovations include the rear lights, which enhance the distinguishing features of the 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.
For those wishing to flaunt the heart of their 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.
More powerful engine
The engine of the new Murciélago LP640 has undergone outstanding and radical modification. The increased bore and longer stroke have boosted the displacement of the classic 60° V-engine from 6.2 litres to 6.5 litres (6,496 cm3). Thus the already extraordinary 580 hp engine power has now been elevated to an impressive peak of 640 hp (471 kW) at 8,000 min-1. The 12-cylinder engine reaches a maximum torque of 660 Nm at 6,000 min-1. Naturally, the Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 complies with every European and North American law governing exhaust fumes.
This “evolutionary leap forward” has been possible thanks to a coherent review of every engine component: the cylinder head and the entire intake system (based on the tried and tested Lamborghini variable geometry system), have been completely reworked. The crankshaft, camshafts and exhaust system have also undergone innovation.
The increase in power naturally determines an increase in performance. The maximum speed is now
340 km/h (before 330 km/h). The excellent performance of the Murciélago LP640 means it can now accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds (0.4 seconds faster than the previous model).
Lamborghini engineers have also concentrated on improving torque development. The “drivability” of the engine is enhanced by a continuous variable timing system (intake and exhaust side) and a drive-by-wire engine management system.
To meet the thermal requirements of the engine, the engineers have foreseen a considerably larger oil radiator and subsequently, the air intake on the left side of the vehicle has been enlarged. The liquid cooling system, characterised by the Lamborghini VACS system (variable geometry air inlet system) remains the same. Electronically managed air intakes open depending on the outdoor temperature and the need for cooling air, ensuring maximum aerodynamic efficiency.
Gearbox and transmission: improved efficiency and strength
More power and higher torque call for superior gearbox component erformance. 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 programme) mode.
Just like its predecessors, the Murciélago LP640 features permanent four-wheel drive, based on the reliable Lamborghini VT (Viscous Traction) system. The system is self-governing and does not feature any electronic controls. The drive force is usually divided between the front and rear axles in the ratio of 30 to 70. An independent control circuit adjusts the distribution of the drive force depending on dynamic oscillation, weight distribution and the relative friction factor in perfect synchronisation with the Visco clutch. In extreme cases, up to 100% of the drive force can be applied to a single axle.
Electronics: a «closed loop» for total control
The electronics have also been updated. The modified engine control units improve engine performance and “driveability” thanks to “closed loop” control.
Every engine and vehicle parameter is managed and controlled by three “master” control units and a “satellite” control unit. The master control units consist of two Lamborghini «LIE» engine control units, a Lamborghini “GFA” (Auxiliary Function Management) control unit and a Lamborghini “PMC” (Power Motor Control) satellite control unit. The control units are interconnected by a CAN Bus line.
Frame and chassis: perfect harmony
The body of the Murciélago LP640 with its characteristic scissor doors is reated from the prized union of sheet steel and honeycombed carbon fibre, glued and riveted together.
Driving, handling and stability at high speed are enhanced by new springs and stabilisers, as well as by a redesigned electronically controlled damper. The «anti-dive» and «anti-squat» features on the axles, which efficiently prevent so-called «brake diving» and «squatting», have not been changed.
The two springs on every rear wheel, the single spring on every front wheel and the damper are placed coaxially.
The new aluminium «Hermera» rims measure 8 ½» x 18″ (fore carriage) and 13″ x 18″ (rear axle). The vehicle can be fitted with various sized Pirelli P Zero «Rosso» tyres. The Murciélago LP640 features 245/35 ZR 18 front tyres and 335/30 ZR 18 rear tyres. For sports use, especially on racetracks, Lamborghini provides optional Pirelli P Zero “Corsa” (Race) tyres. Pirelli P “Sottozero” (Sub zero) winter tyres are currently being developed.
Brakes and safety: optional ceramic carbon brakes
A super sports car such as the Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 ensures high safety levels.
The dual hydraulic circuit brake system equipped with a vacuum brake booster ensures considerable deceleration values. The self-ventilating front and rear brake disks measure 380 mm x 34 mm and 355 mm x 32 mm respectively. The control circuit of the four-channel anti-blocking system (ABS) with electronic brake control (DRP) and traction control (TCS) features a new characteristic curve. The system consists in an electro-hydraulic control unit and four speed sensors.
When particularly high braking performance is required, on request it is possible to equip the vehicle with 380 mm x 36 mm ceramic carbon brakes featuring six-piston brake callipers. Thus, less pressure needs to be applied to the brake pedal and the braking distance is reduced. Even in extremely demanding conditions there is almost no perceptible fading. Considerably reduced weight and superior lifetime represent two further advantages, as well as a captivating graphic design.
The new Murciélago LP640 also meets with even the most rigorous safety requirements. Thanks to the two front airbags (a 60-litre single stage air bag on the driver side and a 130-litre two stage airbag on the passenger side), the Murciélago LP640 complies with every international law in effect in terms of head-on and side crashes, impacts against posts, occupant safety, fuel supply integrity and flammability of materials. The luggage compartment also complies with childproof safety regulations.
Interior: even more exclusive and customised
The seats in the cockpit have undergone the most radical changes; more spacious and equipped with redesigned head restraints, the seats now ensure better comfort. The leather upholstery features lozenge-shaped stitching called «Q-citura». The same design is recaptured on the upholstery on the door panels, the panel between the seats and the engine compartment, and on the roof anel.
A new instrument panel has been developed with lights featuring a new graphic design, flanked by a new Kenwood car radio with a 6.5” widescreen monitor and DVD, MP3 and WMA player. An optional navigation system is also available (standard in Japan).
Like its predecessors, the new Murciélago LP640 can be customised thanks to the special fittings and upholstery packages. For the first time, the renowned characteristic Murciélago Roadster asymmetric and driver-oriented fittings and upholstery are available for the Coupé, featuring a perforated leather driver’s seat and door panel.
Thanks to the «Privilegio» customisation program, any Murciélago LP640 can be transformed into a customised sports car. For example, the cockpit can be enhanced with an extremely refined carbon finish applied to the air conditioning control panel, the control lever console and the parking brake.
Technical Data
Frame:
- High strength tubular steel structure with carbon fibre components.
Bodywork:
- In carbon fibre, except roof and door external panels (steel).
Steering:
- Type Mechanical (rack and pinion) power-assisted.
- Right-hand turning circle 12.55 m.
Wheels and tyres:
- Front 245/35 ZR 18.
- Rear 335/30 ZR 18.
Engine:
- Type 12 cylinders at 60.°
- Bore 88 mm.
- Displacement 6496 cc.
- Compression ratio (11 ± 0.2):1.
- Maximum power 640 hp (471 kW) at 8000 rpm.
- Maximum torque 660 Nm at 6000 rpm.
- Engine position in vehicle Longitudinal central-rear.
- Cylinder heads and engine block Aluminium.
- Intake system Variable geometry with 3 operating modes.
Timing:
- 4 valves per cylinder, 4 overhead camshafts.
- Timing gear transmission 2 chains.
- Continuous timing variator (int. and ex.) Electronically controlled.
Ignition system:
- Static type ignition system with individual coils (one for each spark plug).
- Firing sequence 1-7-4-10-2-8-6-12-3-9-5-11.
- Fuel system/injection:
- Lamborghini LIE electronic engine control unit, multipoint, sequential timed, DRIVE BY WIRE.
Lubrication system:
- Type Dry sump.
- Recovery pumps 2 gear pumps.
- Delivery pump (high pressure) 1 gear pump.
Cooling system:
- Type Liquid cooled, with pressurized circuit.
Transmission:
- Type of transmission Permanent all-wheel drive with Viscous Traction System.
- Gearbox 6-speed mechanical gearbox.
- Clutch Dry single disc.
- Clutch disc diameter 272 mm.
- Disengagement With self-adjusting hydraulic control.
Transmission ratios and Gearbox:
- Ist 1:3.091
- IInd 1:2.105
- IIIrd 1:1.565
- IVth 1:1.241
- Vth 1:1.065
- VIth 1:0.939
- Reverse 1:2.692
Brakes:
- 4 self-ventilated rotors with pedal control, hydraulic transmission with dual independent circuits, one for each axle with vacuum servo.
- ABS antilock device + DRP function.
- Steel brake lines.
- Front rotor Ø 380 x 34 mm.
- Front calliper cylinders N. 8 (32-28 mm/32-28 mm).
- Rear rotor Ø 355 x 32 mm.
- Rear calliper cylinders N. 4 (40-44 mm).
- Ceramic rotors system (Optional).
- Front rotor Ø 380 x 38 mm.
- Front calliper cylinders N. 6 (32-36-38 mm).
- Rear rotor Ø 380 x 38 mm.
- Rear calliper cylinders N. 6 (32-36-38 mm).
- Handbrake Mechanical, acting on rear wheels.
Suspension:
- 4-wheel independent articulated quadrilateral system. Hydraulic shock absorbers and coaxial coil.
- springs. Suspension with dual front and rear struts, antiroll, antidive and antisquat bar.
Performance data:
- Top speed 340 km/h.
- Acceleration 0-100 km/h 3.4 s.
Dimensions:
- Wheelbase 2665 mm.
- Total length 4610 mm.
- Total width 2058 mm.
- Total height 1135 mm.
- Dry weight (no fuel) 1665 kg.
- Front trackwidth 1635 mm.
- Rear trackwidth 1695 mm.
- Front overhang 1005 mm.
- Rear overhang 910 mm.
- Maximum overall width with external rear-view Mirrors: 2240 mm.
- Liquid capacities (litres).
- Fuel tank 100 litres.
- Engine oil 12 litres.
- Gearbox oil 3.5 litres.
- Front differential oil 1 litre.
- Rear differential oil 2.5 litres
- Cooling circuit 15 litres.
Text by: Clásicos al Volante.
Photographs by: Lamborghini.
