Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder launches

More power, faster acceleration and a real fancy roof

By PH Staff / Wednesday, 14 September 2005 / Loading comments

Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder

Lamborghini launched the Gallardo Spyder at Frankfurt Motor Show this week, as previewed right here on PistonHeads yesterday -- see link below. Lambo claimed that the car is "not just an open-top version of the coupé, but a completely new model" -- which many might argue is a pitch too far.

Changes to the Coupé's engine and transmission system include a 10 per cent power boost from the 4.9-litre V10, which now develops 520bhp at 8,000rpm. It goes through a six-speed gearbox with new lower ratios: first gear is 27 per cent lower, second gear 13 per cent. Third, fourth and fifth gears are all six per cent lower, while sixth gear is 3.5 per cent lower. It'll reach a top speed of 196mph with the roof up and 192mph with it down, accelerating from 0 to 62mph in 4.3 seconds.

Lamborghini said the steering is more direct and precise, and the suspension has been recalibrated. The Spyder is built using aluminium bodywork and features permanent four-wheel drive, like other Lambos. Chassis reinforcements include added material in the sill area, strengthened A pillars plus an automatic pop-up roll-over protection -- the company didn't say how much weight they add.

Standard equipment includes power steering fluid cooler, automatic door locking at speeds of over 9mph, and the Lamborghini Multimedia System will be included as standard on UK cars.

They're proud of the roof

The roof opening system is unique. It's operated using two dash-mounted buttons, and takes 20 seconds to raise or lower. An electronic control system controls the movement of the fabric roof, which is stored in the engine compartment and covered by the carbon fibre engine bonnet that also functions as a hood cover. Electric actuators lock the catch at the front of the hood and release the bonnet catch, and a separate motor raises and lowers the rear window.

The rear screen moves automatically while the roof is being opened or closed. This automatically-controlled movement always returns the screen to the raised position. The driver can choose to have the screen in the lowered position (including when the roof is raised) by pressing the appropriate button on the dashboard. A ‘service function’ positions the roof to allow access to the engine.

Options

There's a range of new body and interior leather colours available and optional equipment includes a video camera on the rear spoiler (also available on the coupé version); new colour/perforated leather combinations for the dashboard, seats and door trim, and contrast colour stitching.

Other options include a security system, heated mirrors, onboard computer, protective cover, ‘coming home’ function, e-gear, set of two suitcases, lifting system, navigation system, coloured Lamborghini logo on wheel rims, rear spoiler and a smokers’ version. Silver Callisto wheels, heated electric seats and coloured brake calipers are available. Customisation packs include a leather package, carbon fibre package, branding package, winter package, travel set and sports set-up.

The marque’s fourth model, the Spyder will be available in the UK from spring 2006, priced at around £130,000. It's a steal.