LAMBORGHINI GALLARDO

Lamborghini Gallardo

Lamborghini Gallardo

Although it's probably difficult for most people to think of a nearly $200,000 automobile as "affordable," that's the position the Lamborghini Gallardofinds itself in within the Lambo product lineup. But no matter -- sports cars with exotic looks and the performance to match have a built-in ownership audience.
Since its introduction, the mission for this "baby Lamborghini" has been to maintain the style and attitude of Lamborghini Gallardo 12-cylinder cars but be more livable in everyday use. It's been a successful strategy, as there's been no shortage of takers who rightly lust after such a usable and alluring sports car. In fact, the Lamborghini Gallardo has become this Italian automaker's best-selling model ever.

Without too much difficultly, one can claim that the Lamborghini GallardoLP560-4 is Lamborghini's best sports car ever. If there's anything lacking, it's the outrageous spirit and flair so often associated with the company's more expensive or legendary offerings. But the trade-off of a little spirit for a lot of functionality has been a good one, and there's no doubt that theLamborghini Gallardo is a true, world-class exotic.

Lamborghini Gallardo

The exotic Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 is currently available in a coupe body style and spyder convertible. The name LP560-4 refers to its engine position ("longitudinale posteriore" or longitudinal rear), its European horsepower measurement (560 ps) and that all four wheels are powered. There is also a limited-edition model called the LP550-2 Valentino Balboni, which is a rear-wheel-drive-only model named after Lamborghini Gallardo storied test driver.

The Gallardo LP560-4 is powered by a 5.0-liter V10 good for 552 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. The Valentino Balboni model produces 542 hp. A six-speed manual transmission with gated metal shifter is standard, while an automated six-speed sequential-shift manual transmission known as e-gear is optional. Expect 0-60 times in the high-3-second range.

In terms of layout and design, theLamborghini Gallardo is a true exotic. To keep weight down, the chassis is a composite blend of alloy stampings, extrusions and castings. And except for the traditionally opening steel doors (no scissors), the exterior is constructed of thermoplastic-formed panels.Inside, the Lamborghini Gallardo's handsome furnishings sublimely marry form with function and offer a surprising level of comfort for a vehicle of this type. Credit is certainly due to the influence of parent company Audi, whose expertise with interior design has been of no small benefit since the Volkswagen Group purchased Lamborghini Gallardo in the late 1990s. The impact is obvious given the precisely fitting leather and soft-touch materials.

Despite the fact that Lamborghini Gallardo an exotic sports car, seating is comfortable enough to accommodate the occasional road trip. Though not as flamboyant as its extroverted exterior, the Lamborghini Gallardo interior styling still befits a vehicle in this price range. Storage space is tight, though, with a minimal amount of room available behind the seats and in the nose-mounted trunk.

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