Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4
Setting a New Standard
With the new Gallardo LP560-4, Lamborghini once again sets a higher
standard for super sports cars. With its new engine, permanent
four-wheel drive transmission and new suspension, it deliver
s
clearly improved performance and dynamics. In parallel, its innovative
design takes the classic lines unique to the Lamborghini brand one step
further. Powerful elegance has never been so defined before.
The Gallardo LP560-4 is the successor of the most successful Lamborghini
model of all time. Approximately 7100 Gallardo models have left the
Sant’Agata Bolognese production plant since its launch in 2003. “The
LP560-4 will consolidate this success story,” states Stephan Winkelmann,
President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. “It will outclass its
predecessor in every aspect; its dynamics are distinctly breathtaking
and its design sets new standards. With the introduction of the Gallardo
LP560-4, we will consistently continue Lamborghini’s growth strategy”.
The powerful heart of the Gallardo LP560-4 is the new 5.2 litre V10
engine with an output of 560 PS (412 kW) at 8000 rpm. The increase of
40 PS compared with that of the previous Gallardo, and the approximate
20 kilogram reduction in weight, improves the power weight ratio to 2.5
kilograms per PS (hp) and thus enhances performance. The LP560-4
accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, its speed at 11.8 seconds is
200 km/h and its top speed lies at 325 km/h. At the same time the new,
highly efficient engine enthralls its driver with its direct fuel
injection system - “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata”. Despite its clearly
increased power, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced
by a staggering 18 per cent.
The engineers in the Sant’Agata-based Technical Department have also
improved traction, handling and stability at high speeds. The redesigned
four-wheel drive transmission, the new suspension and the optimized
aerodynamics as well as the reduced weight and decreased friction
between the components, all contribute to the overall improvements in
the vehicle. Thus the Gallardo LP560-4 presents itself as a cutting edge
super sports car also suitable for the race-track. The car is also
surprisingly suited to long-distance driving and despite its extreme
performance capabilities is easy to control whilst maintaining utmost
stability.
The Style
Powerful elegance
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 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 LP 560-4 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.
Characteristic LED – Daytime running light
The new headlights have a characteristic ‘daytime’ running light
integrated beneath the Bi-Xenon lamps: 15 diodes (LED) have been
positioned in a Y structure. The same motif appears again in the rear
tail-lights. The stop and brake lights have been inspired by the Miura
Concept, the Murciélago LP640 and the Reventón and display the Y form
three times over.
The completely redesigned rear gives the definition “powerful elegance” a
new meaning: rear lights, air cooling vents, bumper and diffuser are
arranged in precise positions on the car’s exterior, which make the
LP560-4 appear extremely wide and bonded to the road surface. In
addition, the streamlined covers left and right of the engine hood
accentuate the powerful shoulders and lengthened, stretched lines of the
new Gallardo.
Clearly improved aerodynamics
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.
The designers in Sant’Agata Bolognese have excelled themselves with the
clear-cut, pure, stark lines of the Gallardo LP 560-4. They also have
demonstrated distinct attention to detail; the elaborate aluminum cap
for petrol and motor oil are testimony to this, as is the rear camera
which has been integrated in a small fin in the independent rear spoiler
as well as the finely-crafted grille in the exhaust pipes.
The body
Weight is undesirable in a sports car and a lightweight model encourages
the dynamics of such a vehicle. Aluminum is much lighter than sheet
steel and this is why the Gallardo LP560-4 is produced with a body in a
much lighter but nevertheless more stiff structure: the two-seater car
measures 4.34 meters in length, 1.90 meters in width and a mere 1.16 meters in height. It weighs in dry at 1410 kilograms - which is,
effectively, 20 kilograms less that that of the previous Gallardo.
The construction of the Gallardo LP560-4 utilities what is known as a space frame construction method’. Integrally molded node elements and
extruded parts create its frame, and sheet metal plates made out of aluminum have been neatly and securely integrated to form the body. The
body is not only extremely light but also torsional stiff and
displays the highest safety characteristics. Thus the basis for the
extraordinary handling characteristics of the LP560-4 is formed.
Integrated Pedestrian Protection system
The body of the car also demonstrates extremely high levels of ‘passive
security’. The Gallardo LP560-4 fulfills the not yet obligatory European
directives regarding the protection of pedestrians. Furthermore, the
geometry of the entire front of the car has been optimized with the
addition of a special combination of materials behind the front bumper
which serve to absorb any impact energy.
The Interior
Luxurious individuality
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 sportscars. 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.
Workmanship of the highest quality
The Miura and the other models of the 60s were already characterized by
the excellent quality of workmanship which lay far and above the general
standards of that time. Lamborghini has continued this tradition and
even today delivers automobiles of the highest standards. The Gallardo
LP560-4 indulges with the highest quality, aesthetically pleasing
materials. With regard to the leather interior, an array of different
colors and stitching (also in contrasting colors) are available. As an
optional, Lamborghini can deliver the Gallardo LP560-4 with a further
choice of leather and Alcantara® interiors as well as Carbon Fiber
Packages. Here, elements such as the air-conditioning surrounds, the
control panel, the handbrake handle and the gear-stick surrounds are
available in carbon fiber.
Furthermore, the individualization program, Ad Persona, enables the
customer to create any combination of color and trim, thus creating a
highly personalized vehicle. After all, the new Lamborghini should
perfectly reflect the owner’s lifestyle.
The Engine
Extreme power in every situation
The engine of the Gallardo LP560-4 is a completely new development. All
that remains of the original V10 is the number of cylinders which, in
this performance category, create a perfect and unique synthesis of
torque, force of movement, sporty nimbleness, compact size and low
weight.
The engine has a 5204 cm3 volumetric displacement which, with 8.000 rpm
creates the extreme 560 PS (412 kW). This results in the excellent
performance per liter of 107.6 PS/lt. At maximum torque output, the
engine yields 540 Newtonmeter at 6.500 rpm. The ample torque curve
guarantees outstanding thrust from every engine speed. With an
acceleration of 3.7 seconds from 0-100 km/h and a maximum speed of 325
km/h, the Gallardo LP560-4 shoots into the orbit of the most extreme and
powerful sports cars.
Despite the clearly improved driving performance of this super sports
car, Sant’Agata’s engineers were nevertheless able to achieve a
reduction in fuel consumption and CO2emissions by 18 per cent. Measured
by engine power and performance, the Gallardo LP560-4 e-gear’s average
fuel consumption of 13.7 liters per 100 kilometers, is extremely low.
Perfect weight distribution, class-leading dynamics
The engine in this new model lies lengthways in front of the rear axle –
hence the model description Longitudinale Posteriore. The concept of
the mid - rear engine is unbeatable in sports car production, with the center of gravity being displaced next to the vertical axis, thus
creating the car’s exceptional dynamics. Furthermore, it creates the
basis for the Gallardo LP560-4’s perfect weight distribution with 43
per cent on the front axle and 57 per cent on the rear. In combination
with the permanent four-wheel drive transmission, superior driving
stability and road adherence are guaranteed in all situations.
Reduced weight for inspirational torque
The crank case of the new ten cylinder of Lamborghini Gallardo is
produced with an aluminum alloy. Separate cylinder liners are not
necessary with this technology: instead, the liners, due to their
exposure to the hard silicone crystals during the production phase, are
bored directly out of the material. The connecting rods are made out of
wrought steel and the pistons are produced from an aluminum alloy. The
consequent reduction in weight, inertia and in friction losses
contributes to the car’s inspirational torque.
The engine is unusually wide for a V10, with a cylinder angle of 90
degrees. A definite advantage of this construction is the low center of
gravity. The reduction of the gravity center height comes also from the
dry sump layout of the lubrication system which also guarantees the
reliability of the oil supply even during lateral acceleration and on
the race-track.
Direct fuel injection improves efficient combustion
The new V10 uses the direct fuel-injection system “Iniezione Diretta
Stratificata” as an innovative way to optimize performance results in
part-load conditions. Here, the fuel is injected directly into the
combustion chamber through the laterally positioned injector. Combined
with the use of a ‘tumble flap’ in the intake manifold runners, this
solution guarantees an optimized distribution of the gasoline in the
combustion chamber (higher gasoline density around the spark plug,
leaner mixture close to piston and cylinder liners) and delivers the
basis for a highly efficient combustion system even with stoichiometric
mean mixture composition. The direct injection boosts the extremely
efficient ‘full load’ performance of the V10, reduces its knock
sensitivity and thus enables the very high compression ratio of 12.5:1.
The cylinder heads have been optimized to deliver a very quick gas
exchange and the variable valve control system on all four camshafts
improves the charge efficiency across the entire engine speed range.
Transmission
Superior control four-wheel drive
Such extreme power must be brought onto the streets with extreme
reliability. The driver of a Gallardo LP560-4 can thus rely on the
four-wheel drive Viscous Traction (VT) system, with the ‘4’ in the model
name a reminder of this. Lamborghini already introduced this system
with the Diablo VT in 1993 – and for good reason: four actuated wheels
achieve more grip than two and permit acceleration earlier in the curve
exit.
The protagonist in the transmission is the central viscous-coupling
which requires no electronic control. In this special Lamborghini
configuration, the driving torque is distributed between front and rear –
generally with a 30:70 front to rear ratio and, within milliseconds,
adapts to even the slightest variations in road conditions. A mechanical
differential on the rear axle provides up to 45% limited slip and an
electronic differential lock at the front complete the four-wheel drive
system.
Superior traction and handling
Not only does the maximum traction take advantage of the permanent
four-wheel drive system, but also the car’s clearly superior handling.
Each wheel can only transfer a certain amount of torque to the road. As
the propulsion power is distributed onto all four wheels through the
viscous traction system, more potential for directional control remains -
and reserves in every situation distinguish a perfectly made sports
car.
Despite all the engine thrust, changing gears in the Gallardo LP560-4 is
one of the most exciting experiences of driving this vehicle. It is
still the customer’s personal preference as to whether he wishes to
change gears manually through the exact ‘gate’ guides of the six-speed
gearbox via the short gear stick, or whether he prefers to let his
fingertips control the e.gear’s paddle-shift system located behind the
steering wheel: the latter solution becoming the preference of the
majority of Lamborghini customers.
Gear change time reduced by 40 per cent
The automated e-gear transmission has been completely redesigned and
improved in all aspects. The complete system has not only been reduced
in weight, but the time employed to change gears has also been reduced
by 40 per cent in “CORSA” mode. The driver may choose between five
different driving and changing programs: in addition to the ‘normal’
mode, the Gallardo LP560-4 offers a SPORT program with its even more
rapid gear changing times and increased number of revolutions.
The CORSA program directs the engine to optimum acceleration. It permits
a greater slip angle and also allows - with maximum safety - the full
dynamism of the LP560-4 to be enjoyed even on a race-track. The ‘Thrust
Mode’ ensures maximum acceleration from neutral while the angle of the
throttle valve and the clutch are here optimally adjusted to one
another. Finally the Automatic mode: here the engine changes gear in
total independence and permits a particularly comfortable mode of
driving.
The Suspension -
High-tech parts with Lamborghini know-how
Even the Gallardo LP560-4’s predecessor was one of the world’s best
super sports cars with regard to handling, precision and driving
stability. However, the latest model provides an even more intense
driving experience: the new suspension improves the car’s handling, its
driving comfort and its directional stability at high speeds.
The Gallardo LP560-4’s space frame is uncompromisingly high tech. Its
technical production was conceived from motor sport technologies. The
double wishbones made out of aluminum with newly designed kinematics,
while the springs and shock absorbers are tightly adjusted for grip.
The rear axle now has an additional track rod which further improves the
excellent control of this super sports vehicle. Newly developed
elements are the rubber-metal bearings - authentic high-tech parts -
which clearly improve the special Lamborghini driving dynamics with
well-chosen material combinations and cleverly defined assembly.
Extreme road adherence
The steering rack works with relatively little assisted steering
support, thus bonding the driver closely to the road. This in turn
provides him with an intense experience of power and impulse. The
steering has its own cooling system for the power steering fluid.
Precise, breathtakingly fast, whilst stable and free from surprises, the
Gallardo LP560-4’s dynamics assures a sensuous experience. The
LP560-4’s tires (format 235/35 ZR 19 front and 295/30 ZR 19 rear) appear
to bond with the asphalt. Specially developed Pirelli P-Zero series
tires are fitted: these have a particularly low roll resistance which
also maintains tire wear at a minimum without, of course, any reduction
in their performance quality. At a speed of over 120 km/h an
independently extended rear spoiler increases the downforce on the rear
axle It acts in association with the specially formed underbody which
directs the airstream under the car.
Optional Carbon Ceramic Brake system
The new braking system acts with brute force. At the front, eight
‘Brembo specialist’ cylinder calipers grasp the 365 mm diameter brake
discs. At the rear, four cylinder calipers act on the 356 mm brake
discs. In addition, the new disc ventilation system improves the
stability in extreme situations. Optionally, discs made out of Carbon
Ceramic are offered. At the front the CCB (Carbon Ceramic Brakes) discs
measure 380mm in diameter and at the rear 356mm. They deliver much
improved performance at a reduced weight. In total, the CCB braking
system is lighter in weight that, at the wheel, improves driving
dynamics and comfort.
The interior and trim
With the Gallardo LP560-4 Lamborghini provides its customers with a
generous and sporty standard equipment package. Direct from the
production line, a customer will find included in his vehicle passenger
and lateral air-bags; a two-zone air-conditioning system with sun
regulation; The Lamborghini Multimedia System including an USB
connector; and sports seats with an electronically operated backrest. In
addition to this, the interior trim includes fine leather and Bi-Xenon
headlights with LED daytime running light. The car is supplied with new
Apollo wheels as standard.
A large variety of options increases the interior comfort of the
vehicle, including a navigation system and a module for TV reception, a
hands-free Bluetooth® phone set, an anti-theft device and a rear view
camera. A further option is the lifting system control of the front of
the vehicle which, at the touch of a button, is raised to enable driving
over obstacles. The new polished cross wheel rims ‘Cordelia’ or the
black Y-rims ‘Callisto’ complete the options range. Finally, the engine
hood made from glass creates a showcase for the heart of the Gallardo
LP560-4.
The possibilities and different combinations available in the Individualization Program Ad Persona are almost inexhaustible. Behind
this program stands the philosophy that a super sports car of this
nature should, after all, reflect the personality of its owner by
enabling him to completely indulge his expectations and wishes. As a
consequence, extreme exclusivity is the trademark of Lamborghini’s individualization program. “Think the Impossible” states the motto. Ad
Persona offers a host of options in order that a customer may give the
car an imprint of his own style with respect to the interior trim and
exterior. A new highlight in the program are the following three
exclusive mat colors: Nero Nemesis (mat black), Bianco Canopus (mat
white), Marrone Apus (matt brown). The new mat colors underline the
clearly defined and purist precision of the Lamborghini design.
72981|2153