The 2009 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 will replace the current Gallardo Superleggera model, though the two cars are quite similar. The LP560-4 is more than a facelift for the Superleggera, but not an entirely new model on its own.
The “LP” in the Lamborghini Gallardo's name stands for “Longitudinale Posteriore,” which refers to the engine’s placement. It’s mid-mounted, just behind the seats, in a longitudinal position. The 560 is for its (metric) horsepower, and the 4 means that it’s all-wheel drive. And, while we’re on the subject, the model is pronounced “Gah-YAR-do,” not “Gah-LAR-do,” no matter what they say in hip-hop songs.
- Key Features
- 5-liter, V10 engine with dual-overhead cams
- Six-speed manual transmission or improved E-gear system
- Top speed = 200+ mph; 0-62 = 3.7 seconds
- 16 mpg combined fuel economy
Engine and Transmission
The Lamborghini Gallardo’s all-new aluminum 5-liter V10 delivers 552 hp at 8,000 rpm and nearly 400 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,500 rpm to all four wheels, up from 520 hp and 376 lb.-ft. in the 2008 model. With great power comes great responsibility, and Lambo has improved its emissions and fuel economy, too. But make no mistake--at 11 city/23 highway, there will be many trips to the gas station to fill the 24-gallon tank.
The car comes with a 6-speed manual transmission, but there is also the optional 6-speed E-gear system. Like many high-end cars, the E-gear system is an automated manual transmission with paddle shifters on the steering column. The new version of Lamborghini’s E-gear changes gears using a rotational selector, which, according to the company, makes for quicker, smoother shifts.
Exterior Design
The latest incarnation of the Lamborghini Gallardo is a bit lighter than the previous model, thanks to weight-saving measures in the driveline. The all-aluminum body is almost identical to earlier models, with only slight changes to the front and rear.
The front bumper comes to a slight point, similar to the Lamborghini Murcielago, and the headlights were redesigned to incorporate Y-shaped LED daytime running lights. The smaller taillights also have these Y-shaped lighting elements. A wide strip of black aluminum grating running the width of the car’s rear allows air to escape the engine compartment.
The suspension is double-wishbone front and rear, with anti-roll bar, anti-dive, and anti-squat. The steel brakes are ventilated discs with 8-cylinder aluminum front calipers and 4-cylinder rear calipers. The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 sits on Pirellis, with 8.5 x 19 front wheels and 11 x 19 rear. There are three new wheel styles available: Apollo, Callisto, and Cordelia. The aluminum, basket-weave style Cordelia was named one of the “10 Sexiest Wheels” by Car and Driver.
Interior Design
The inside of the LP560-4 is covered in contrast-stitched leather and carbon fiber, with supportive seats and new dials reminiscent of the higher-end Murcielago. The console has dual climate control and a version of parent company Audi’s Multi Media Interface system. Interior and exterior colors can be personalized through Lamborghini’s “Ad Personem” program.
The controls are easy to reach, and ergonomics have been improved in the cockpit. Space is at a premium, though, when engineers are trying to keep weight down. Two people can sit comfortably in the Gallardo, as long as they don’t bring anything with them.
Price and Availability
MSRP for the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 is $198,000. About 800 Gallardos are built each year at the Sant’Agata plant in Italy, making these cars exclusive but not unobtainable.
- Dimensions
- Wheelbase: 101 in.
- Length: 171 in.
- Width: 75 in.
- Height: 46 in.
- Dry weight: 3,306 lb.
- Weight distribution (front/rear): 43/57
- Fuel tank: 24 gallons
