In its new generation, the Gallardo Spyder
represents more than ever before automotive passion in its purest form.
As in the Coupé, its enormous power is delivered by the new 5.2 litre
V10 with an output of 560 hp (412 kW) at 8,000 rpm. The increase in 40
hp (29 kW) over its predecessor, as well as the 44 pound (20 kilogram)
reduction in vehicle weight, improves the power-to-weight ratio to 6.10
pounds (2.77 kg) per hp, thus improving performance even further.
The LP 560-4 Spyder takes only 4.0 seconds to sprint from 0 to
62 mph (0 to 100 km/h), reaching 124 mph (0 to 200 km/h) in only 13.1
seconds and going on to a top speed of 201 mph (324 km/h). The new
driveline, featuring the “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata” direct fuel
injection system also makes for impressive efficiency. Despite the
considerable increase in performance, fuel consumption and CO2
emissions have been reduced by a staggering 18 percent.
Engineers at the Ufficio Tecnico Lamborghini, Sant’Agata-based
Technical Department, have also improved traction, handling and
stability at high speeds. The redesigned four-wheel drive transmission,
the new suspension, the improved stiffness of the Spyder bodyshell and
the optimised aerodynamics all contribute to the overall improvements
in the vehicle, as do the reduced weight and decreased friction
throughout the components.
Thus the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder presents itself as a
razor-sharp super sports car with the precision reactions of a
high-performance athlete. The car is also surprisingly suited to
long-distance driving and, despite its extreme performance
capabilities, is easy to control whilst maintaining utmost stability.
Above all, the impressive Lamborghini technology takes on a new,
intense edge in the Spyder, with the glorious feel of the open air
rushing by.
The style - Powerful elegance
Every Lamborghini is a high-performance athlete. Its sensuality
is based on precision, performance and on spontaneous action. A
Lamborghini’s elegance is that of sheer, pure power. This DNA of the
Lamborghini brand is taken to the next level with every new car by the
Centro Stile. Thus the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder displays the precise
lines and clean surfaces of a minimalist design ethos that resists
ornamentation or embellishment of any kind. Even more than the Coupé,
the Spyder places emphasis on the powerful basic wedge form,
complemented by the tightly cut soft top.
Each evolution of the Lamborghini form is strictly dictated by
the demands of function. The redesigned front end lends the LP 560-4 a
firm, low stance that also contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency.
In line with the increased engine output, the enlarged and clearly
accentuated air intakes increase the air flow critical to such a
high-performance automobile. The spoiler, positioned low between the
air intakes, improves aerodynamic stability at high speeds.
Characteristic LED daytime running lights
The new headlights have characteristic daytime running lights
integrated beneath the bi-xenon lamps. 15 LEDs are arranged in a Y
form, with the same pattern repeating in the rear tail-lights. The rear
and brake lights were inspired by the Miura concept, the Murciélago
LP640 and the Reventón. The Y-shaped elements are now signature
features of contemporary Lamborghini models, appearing most recently in
the Estoque concept car, the innovative super sports saloon from
Sant’Agata.
The completely redesigned rear gives new meaning to the term
“powerful elegance”. The rear lights, air cooling vents, bumper and
diffuser are precisely arranged to add tremendous visual breadth to the
LP 560-4 Spyder, while sustaining its firm bond with the road surface.
In addition, the streamlined covers left and right of the bonnet
accentuate the powerful shoulders and the taut lines of the new
Gallardo.
Significantly improved aerodynamics
The new exhaust system is beautifully finished by four
chrome-plated tail pipes. The rear diffuser has been redesigned to
deliver more downforce and, together with the smooth underbody, it
contributes to the vehicle’s excellent directional stability, even at
very high speeds. Overall, aerodynamic efficiency in terms of downforce
has been improved significantly in comparison with its predecessor -
the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder tackles fast curves with even greater
refinement.
The purist approach to design is perfectly complemented by the
immaculate attention to detail demonstrated by the designers at
Sant’Agata Bolognese.
The fuel and motor oil fill caps, intricately-crafted from
aluminium bear testimony to this, as does the rear view camera, which
has been integrated into a small fin in the automatically-deploying
rear spoiler, as well as the finely-detailed grilles in the exhaust
tail pipes.
Soft top perfectly suited to everyday use
The flow of the lines, regardless of whether the top is up or
down, clearly demonstrates that the Spyder is a fully self-contained
model within the Gallardo range. Compared with the Coupé, the open top
version comes across as just a little more radical; its shoulders have
been raised slightly in order to make room for the soft top.
The fully-lined fabric top – available in black, blue, grey
and beige – is operated via two switches located on the centre console.
They set in motion a choreography that is over in just 20 seconds. One
hydraulic pump, six hydraulic cylinders, one electric motor and two
electric actuators work together to perform this technical ballet.
Rear windscreen functions as wind deflector
When the soft top opens, the rear windscreen disengages first,
sliding downwards to avoid obstructing the remainder of the process.
Four cylinders slightly raise the rear-hinged engine cover, before the
hood folds gracefully into a stowage compartment located in front of
the engine bay. Finally, the large engine cover made from a lightweight
carbon-fibre composite closes once more and the rear windscreen returns
to its original position to function as a wind deflector. A switch
mounted on the dashboard will stow the rear windscreen if preferred –
even when the top is closed.
Whether open or closed, the Gallardo Spyder’s soft top is
designed for unrestricted high speeds. In order to ensure maximum
safety, Lamborghini engineers have integrated two spring-loaded
rollover bars behind the seats. Controlled by a sensor, they deploy in
only 250 milliseconds should a potential roll-over situation arise. The
seat belt tensioners spring into action at the same time.
The bodyshell - Intelligent lightweight design
Weight is undesirable in a sports car and lightweight design is
good for dynamics. Aluminium is much lighter that steel – which is why
the bodyshell of the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder has an aluminium
structure that is more lightweight, yet stiffer. With its lighter
engine, the two-seater boasts a dry weight of only 3417.2 Ibs (1,550
kg) – 44 pounds (20 kg) less than its predecessor.
The design of the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder utilises the
‘spaceframe construction method’. Cast aluminium nodes and extruded
profiles form its frame, with integrated friction-locked and
form-fitted aluminium panels creating the bodyshell. The bodyshell is
not only extremely light, but also displays exceptional torsional
stiffness and safety characteristics, thus forming the basis for the
extraordinary handling characteristics of the LP 560-4. The aerodynamic
underbody panel is also integrated into the overall design for
structural stiffness. The Spyder incorporates specially-developed
additional stiffness elements within the spaceframe to compensate for
the absence of a fixed roof.
Integrated pedestrian protection system
The bodyshell also incorporates the highest levels of passive
safety. The Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder even fulfills European directives
for pedestrian protection that are not yet mandatory. Furthermore, the
geometry of the entire front end of the car has been optimized, with a
special combination of materials behind the front bumper that serve to
absorb impact forces.
The interior - Luxurious individuality
Despite its low exterior height, the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder
welcomes its passengers with a spacious interior – even when the top is
closed. The sports seats are upholstered in either fine leather or
Alcantara® and provide firm hold and support. The seats are mounted
low, as is typical for sports cars, and behind them is additional
luggage space to complement the 110 litre capacity luggage compartment
at the front of the vehicle.
The wide middle console is one of the elements that
characterize the impression of sporty dynamism in the interior. It
accommodates the standard Lamborghini audio and multimedia system, as
well as the dual-zone climate control. Between these two units is a
newly designed module housing classically elegant toggle switches.
Seven instrument dials boasting new graphics provide the driver with
essential engine data, while a multi-functional display between the
speedometer and rev counter furnishes him with important information
from the on-board computer.
Highest quality workmanship
The Miura and the other models of the 60s were already
characterized by their excellent quality of workmanship, which was far
beyond the general standards of the day. Lamborghini has built
extensively on this tradition, and to this day delivers automobiles of
the highest standards.
The Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder indulges with materials of the
highest quality in both look and feel. Leather interior choices include
a range of colours and stitching in matching or contrasting tones. As
an optional extra, Lamborghini can deliver the Gallardo with an
expanded range of leather or Alcantara® equipment, as well as carbon
packages, where elements like the surround for the air-conditioning
control panel, the handbrake and the gear-stick console are finished in
carbon fibre composite. The Ad Personam individualisation program
fulfils personal preferences – at the end of the day, a new Lamborghini
has to fit in perfectly with the lifestyle of its owner.
The engine - Extreme power in every situation
The engine of the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder is a completely new
development. All that remains is the number of cylinders, - that
magical ten - which provides a perfect synthesis of high-revs, pulling
power, athletic agility, compact dimensions and low weight that is
unique within this performance class.
The engine has a displacement of 5.2 liters (5204 cm3 ),
generating an extreme 560 hp (412 kW) at 8,000 rpm – giving
class-topping output per litre of 107.6 hp. The engine delivers a
maximum torque of 398 Ib-ft (540 Nm) at 6,500 rpm. The ample torque
curve guarantees outstanding thrust at all engine speeds. With
acceleration of 4.0 seconds from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) and a top speed
of 201 mph (324 km/h), the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder shoots into the
orbit of the most extreme high-performance sports cars and is only one
km/h less swift than the LP 560-4 Coupé.
Even more astounding is the fact that engineers at Sant’Agata
succeeded in lowering the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of the
super sports car by 18 percent, despite a considerable improvement in
performance. Relative to engine power and performance, the average fuel
consumption of the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder e.gear is astonishingly low
at only 16mpg combined (20 hwy/13city) (14 litres per 100 kilometres).
Perfect weight distribution, optimal dynamics
The engine in this new model is also located longitudinally
behind the driver – hence the model denomination Longitudinale
Posteriore. The mid-engine concept is peerless in sports car design,
creating the basis for the perfect weight distribution of the LP 560-4
Spyder of 43 percent on the front axle and 57 percent on the rear. In
combination with the permanent all-wheel drive transmission, it
guarantees the Gallardo’s superior handling stability in all
situations.
Low mass for impressive high-revving
The cylinder bore surfaces of the new Lamborghini ten-cylinder
are made of a hypereutectic aluminium alloy. The hard silicon crystals
of the bore surfaces are chemically released following the honing
process. The connecting rods are made from forged steel and the pistons
from aluminium alloy. The systematic reduction of mass and internal
friction contributes to the engine’s impressive high-revving
characteristics.
The engine is unusually wide for a V10, with a cylinder angle
of 90 degrees. The advantage of this layout is the lower centre of
gravity. The dry sump lubrication serves the same purpose, as well as
guaranteeing a reliable supply of oil even during extreme lateral
acceleration on the race track.
Direct fuel injection makes for efficient combustion
The new V10 uses the direct fuel-injection system “Iniezione
Diretta Stratificata” as an innovative way to optimize performance in
all conditions, while achieving moderate fuel consumption. The fuel is
injected directly into the combustion chamber from a common-rail system
at pressures of up to 100 bar via laterally-position injectors. This
ensures the perfect “tumble” of the homogeneous fuel/air mixture and
forms the basis of highly efficient combustion.
Direct injection boosts the extremely efficient full-load
performance of the V10, reduces its knock sensitivity, provides an
internal cooling effect and thus facilitates a very high compression
ratio of 12.5:1. The cylinder heads have been optimised to deliver a
rapid charge cycle, while the variable valve control system on all four
camshafts improves charge efficiency across the entire engine speed
range.
Transmission - All-wheel drive refinement
Such extreme power must be delivered to the road safely. The
driver of a Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder can thus rely on the viscous
traction permanent all-wheel drive system – the number 4 in the model
name serves as a reminder of this. Lamborghini introduced this system
as early as 1993, with the Diablo VT – and for good reason. Four driven
wheels achieve more grip than two and permit earlier acceleration when
exiting a curve.
Located in the driveline is a central viscous coupling, which
requires no electronic control. In this Lamborghini-specific
configuration, driving power is distributed between front and rear at a
standard ratio of 30:70, adapting to variations in road conditions
within a matter of milliseconds. A mechanical differential on the rear
axle providing up to 45% limited slip, and an electronic differential
lock at the front complete the all-wheel drive system.
Superior traction and handling
It is not only maximum traction that benefits from permanent
all-wheel drive, but also the car’s clearly superior handling.
Ultimately, each wheel can only transfer a certain amount of power to
the road. As the drive power is distributed to all four wheels via the
viscous traction system, there is thus greater potential for
directional control. These reserves in every situation are what
distinguish a perfectly made sports car.
With all that engine thrust, changing gears in the Gallardo LP
560-4 is also one of the most exciting aspects of this vehicle. It
remains a matter of personal preference whether the driver uses the
short gear stick to work manually through the precision motion of the
six-speed gearbox, or whether he chooses to let his fingertips control
the e.gear’s paddle-shift system located behind the steering wheel –
the option preferred by the majority of Lamborghini customers.
Shift times reduced by 40 percent
The automated e.gear transmission has been completely
redesigned and improved in all aspects. The complete system is not only
considerably lighter, but the time required to change gear in corsa
mode has also been reduced by 40 per cent. The driver can change gear
manually using the shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel – or he
can leave it entirely up to the automatic mode, which ensures extremely
refined dynamics.
If the driver changes gear manually using the steering wheel
paddles, he can choose from three different drive programs. Alongside
the standard program, the Gallardo also offers the sport mode with even
shorter shift times, while the corsa program delivers optimum engine
acceleration.
ESP is active in all drive programs, engaging later in the
sport and corsa modes and reducing the impact of the traction control.
The corsa mode also permits greater drift and enables the complete
dynamic spectrum of the LP 560-4 Spyder to be appreciated on the race
track – while still leaving plenty of room for safety. The Lamborghini
thrust mode facilitates maximum acceleration from a standstill. The
throttle valve angle and clutch travel have been optimized specifically
for this purpose.
The chassis - Hi-tech components with Lamborghini expertise
The predecessor to the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder was already one
of the world’s best super sports cars in terms of handling, precision
and driving stability. However, the latest model delivers an even more
intense driving experience across the board. The new chassis improves
the car’s handling, its driving comfort and its directional stability
at high speeds.
The chassis of the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder is
uncompromisingly hi-tech. Its technical design comes directly from
motorsport. The aluminium double wishbones with re-designed kinematics
encircle the wheels, while the springs and shock absorbers have been
recalibrated for stiffness and optimum grip. The rear axle now has an
additional track rod, bringing an extra element of control to the super
sports car.
One all-new development is the rubber-metal bearings. These
truly hi-tech components contribute to the unique Lamborghini dynamics
with intelligent design and specific material combinations. The precise
set-up of the springs and dampers has been adjusted to accommodate the
slightly higher weight of the Spyder to give it exactly the same
characteristics as the Gallardo Coupé.
Intense road holding
The rack and pinion steering works with relatively little power
assistance – giving the driver a direct and close connection with the
road, and providing intense experience of the power and forces at play.
The steering has its own cooling system for the power steering fluid.
Precise, breathtakingly fast, yet stable and free from
surprises - the Gallardo’s dynamics deliver a sensuous experience. At
the limit, the tyres (235/35 ZR 19 front and 295/30 ZR 19 rear) appear
to bond with the road surface. The wheels are clad in Pirelli P-Zero
series tyres, specially developed for Lamborghini. They boast
particularly low rolling resistance and thus contribute to reduced fuel
consumption without any compromise in performance. At speeds of more
than 75 mph (over 120 km/h), an automatically-deploying rear spoiler
increases the down force on the rear axle. It works together with the
specially formed underbody, which directs the airflow under the car.
Optional carbon fibre ceramic brake system
The new brake system comes with brutal stopping power. At the
front, eight-cylinder Brembo calipers grip 14.37 in (365 mm) diameter
discs, while four-cylinder callipers and 14 in (356 mm) discs take up
the rear. The new disc ventilation also improves brake fade under
extreme load conditions.
Highly stable carbon fibre ceramic discs are available as an
option. At the front the CCB (Carbon Ceramic Brake) discs measure 15 in
(380mm) diameter and at the rear 14 in (356mm). They deliver improved
performance with reduced weight. The CCB system significantly reduces
weight, which improves dynamics and comfort.
Equipment and trim - Top-class individuality
Lamborghini has equipped the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder with an
exceptionally sporty standard equipment package that includes the
automatic top; driver, passenger and side air-bags; dual-zone climate
control with sun regulator; stereo system with USB interface; sports
seats with electrically adjustable back rests; leather upholstery and
bi-xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights. The new series
production “Apollo” wheels feature a double-spoke design.
A range of optional extras brings additional comfort and
convenience – including a navigation system, a hands-free Bluetooth®
mobile phone connection, anti-theft device and a rear view camera. A
further option is a lifting system for the front axle – which raises
the body at the touch of a button to ease negotiation of obstacles. New
options include black painted “Cordelia” wheels.
The possibilities available in the “Ad Personam” individualisation
program are virtually inexhaustible. Behind this program stands the
philosophy that a super sports car, as a significant expression of the
personality of its owner, should fit perfectly to his desires and
expectations. This is particularly true for a car as highly emotional
as the Spyder. As a consequence, the finest exclusivity is the
trademark of Lamborghini’s individualisation program. “Think the
Impossible” is its motto.
“Ad Personam” offers a host of options to bring highly
individual style to both the interior and exterior of a Lamborghini.
One new highlight in the program is three matt-lustre colour options -
Nero Nemesis (matt black), Bianco Canopus (matt white), Marrone Apus
(matt brown). These colours, applied using a specialist and highly
sophisticated process, bring particular emphasis to the purist
precision of Lamborghini design. |
