Literally meaning "super light," the new Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera is a stripped down version of the already potent Gallardo LP560.
"Super Light": Lamborghinis are known for their raw power and sheer speed; the existing Gallardo LP-560 is no slouch. The engineers at Lamborghini do not stop at greatness. They decided to renew the Superleggera model to make the existing Gallardo even more potent.
Through a plethora of modifications to the body, the engineers were able to strip 154 pounds form the standard Gallardo's body. The exterior mirrors, the new rear diffuser and side sills, the wing, the engine compartment lid and parts of the underbody are all carbon fiber, as are the interior door panels, the transmission tunnel, the shifter surrounds, and the seat shells. A lightweight polycarbonate is used instead of glass for the windows. Another 28.6 pounds were shaven off by the use of lightweight forged-aluminum wheels. All of this added together, the Superleggera's dry curb weight is 2954 pounds, making it the lightest Lamborghini available.
Engine and Transmission: Of course, the engineers could not stop with a only a lighter version of the standard car. By reconstructing the engine computer, they were able to squeeze an extra 10 horsepower out of the 5.2 liter V10, hence the 570 moniker. The engine produces 562 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque and is mated to a six-speed automated manual "E-Gear" transmission. WIth this gearbox, the driver can rip off crisp and harsh upshifts with the right paddle on the steering wheel or get a perfectly matched downshift with the left. A traditional six speed manual is available at no extra charge.
Performance and Handling: With the extra power and less weight, the new Superleggera will explode from 0-62 mph in a conservative estimate of 3.5 seconds. The car will take about 10.2 seconds to reach 124 mph as it continues on its way to a 202 mph top speed. To top it off, this new model lowers its C02 emissions by 20.5 percent and improves
its fuel economy by 2 mpg over the standard model.
Keeping all of the power under control is the all-wheel-drive system that sends 70 percent of the power to the rear wheels. The carbon fiber goodies on the exterior not only add to the car's style, but are functional as well. A carbon fiber-sculpted front bumper along with a cf rear diffuser and rear wing give the car more downforce at higher speeds, keeping it planted on the road. Wrapping the 19 inch forged wheels are exclusive Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires. With this combination of power and handling, the Superleggera will eat up the track.
Interior/Options: Looking inside the car, it is obvious that the Superleggera is a serious racer. A cover on the dash replaces what was the navigation unit. The sporty leather seats in the standard model are replaced with low-slung carbon fiber racing buckets. The door panels are finished fully in carbon fiber. To top it off, the seats, steering wheel, dash, and roof are lined with the suede-like material, alcantara, giving the interior a sporty look.
The Superleggera can be as hard core or as drivable (to an extent) as the owner desires. For the intense racer, massive 15 inch front and 14 inch rear carbon-ceramic break disks can be ordered, providing fade-free stopping power. Also optional are a four-point harness, steel roll cage, fire extinguisher, and large rear wing.
At the other end of the spectrum, the car does have some standard creature comforts such as air conditioning and power windows. A navigation system can also be ordered, but if luxury is your desire, the Superleggera will not fill your needs.
Why the Superleggera?
This new Gallardo offers such an awesome combination of power and handling. It can tear up the track in the morning and be driven home in the afternoon. With a rock-solid ride, this car is much more oriented towards the track than public roads. With a base price of $237,600, this is not a cheap car. With options, expect that price to be substantially higher. But can you put a price on driving bliss? Ferrari 458, watch out!
Photo Credits: www.dupontregistry.com/autos
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