631hp @ 8000 rpm.... check the exhaust tip. Source: www.topgear.com Exclusive pics: new Lambo Murciélago LP640 Lamborghini has turned the dial up to 11 for its latest show-stopper, the Murciélago LP640. Unlike the Miura concept shown at Detroit in January, the LP640 is very much for real and creates the ultimate road-going version of the company's flagship model. The LP640 will be unveiled at the Geneva motor show next week, but here we have an exclusive preview of the fastest production Lambo ever built. A 6.5-litre V12 engine lies at the heart of the LP640, where LP stands for 'longitudinale posteriore', which refers to the V12 unit mounted lengthways behind the cockpit. With deeper and wider cylinder bores than the previous 6.2-litre V12, the new 6.5 ups power to an imperious 631bhp at 8,000 good-for-the-soul revs per minute. Coupled to a new six-speed gearbox, which can also be ordered with Lambo's e-gear sequential paddle shift, the LP640 howls from 0-62mph in 3.4 seconds - 0.4 seconds quicker than the 6.2-litre model. And it's helped on its way by an electronic launch-control device called, rather brilliantly, Thrust. Lambo has yet to announce a top speed, but word is that the LP640 will top 210mph, while low-speed driving is improved with variable valve timing and an aircraft-style drive-by-wire throttle. Helping it to achieve this colossal speed and remain stable are plenty of aerodynamic changes for the LP. Reshaped front and rear bumpers direct air more efficiently, while the exhaust is now incorporated into the rear diffuser to help cancel out aerodynamic lift at high speeds. Lamborghini has also created a larger air intake on the left side to feed the oil cooler. For those wishing to show off the LP's 6.5-litre V12 to full effect, a glass engine cover can be ordered. Under the steel and carbon fibre skin, revised suspension copes with the increased performance, while ceramic brakes are an option to help bring things to a halt more swiftly and efficiently. There's also a four-wheel-drive system that normally splits 70 per cent of the torque to the back, but can allocate up to 100 per cent to each end depending on where the grip is running out. There are also new 18-inch Hermera alloy wheels running huge 335/30 tyres at the rear, but one thing that hasn't changed with the LP640 is the Murciélago's signature scissor-opening doors. Inside, there are reshaped seats for improved comfort and greater headroom, while a revised instrument panel is flanked by a new stereo system. Lamborghini will announce prices in Geneva, but expect to pay a £15,000 premium over the 6.2-litre model's £170,000 price tag. See more pictures and read the full story on Lamborghini's Murciélago LP640 in the new issue of Top Gear magazine - on sale March 1.
Was just about to make a thread about this.... Looks hot! 631BHP, sounds promising. But whats with the weird oranging lighing in the interior?
631hp? Revised front splitter, mirrors and vent scoops? Diamond quilted seats? Clear engine cover? I'm getting weak in the knees...
It hits all the right buttons don't it. This is an exotic, not a GT looking car like its competition.
wow thats just beautiful ....its not an actual picture of the car..its just a rendering. thats why the interior is orange like that...they wanted it to look like the gatway to hell.....
Looks like a winner to me, I warmed up to this immediately unlike the introduction of the Murcielago. Took some time for me to come around.....
I am impressed with the 631 hp and the new look.... but it seems they totally ignor one important figure the 1650 kg. elephant weight is still there or more now???
Love it! Atlhough I was hoping the new M to be a 2WD SV model weighing <1500kg. Guess this one is no track day car, but an excellent GT.
Sorry I am not sold on it. It looks like it has the Veyron exhaust outlet. The seats (IMO) do not look great. Not a fan of the diamond pattern. I really dislike that split front spoiler. It really does a good job to spoil the look IMO. It reminds me of the Jalpa front end. That said, I need to see more pics ;-) It may look better in natural light (at least thats what I hope!).
Yeah I want to see a 2WD Murc w low weight, lots of cf, and a big a$$ wing for the price of this car you can get into a Saleen S7 which would blow it into the weeds
they should re-think the front bumper cover: looks like a cheap Japanese body kit for an Integra. Otherwise, looks great!
I like it, Im not normally a big Lamborghini fan but this is hard not to like. The revised lines are gorgeous and I love those wheels. I cant wait to see one up-close. The interior looks like it had a little Pagani influence.
Here is the full text of the press release. I thought it an interesting read. If any mod deems it too long, feel free to pull it. Sounds like one hell of a car. I don't think they mentioned the weight though.... The new Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 Automobili Lamborghini will present the passionately developed evolution of the Lamborghini Murciélago Coupé at the 76th International Car Show in Geneva. The new version of this highly successful super-sports car features considerable innovations in terms of body design and mechanics. And also with a new name: Murciélago LP640, which refers to its engine position - longitudinale posteriore - and to its power 640 hp. Designers and engineers have not only focused on reworking the engine, suspensions, gearbox, exhaust system, brakes and electronics, but also the interior and exterior design; improvements that make the Murciélago LP 640 the most extreme and fastest sports car in its class, placing it at the very top. The first vehicles will be available in spring 2006. Since the original Murciélago's debut at the 2001 International Car Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, around 2,000 vehicles have left the car plant in Sant' Agata Bolognese. Unmistakable Design In their reinterpretation of the Murciélago LP640, the designers at the Lamborghini Style Centre have remained true to the traditional Lamborghini principles of purism, sport and function. The Murciélago LP640 now appears even more aggressive, with the new front and rear bumpers contributing significantly to its appearance. The exhaust system terminal has been incorporated in the diffuser on the rear bumper. Other innovations include the rear lights, which enhance the distinguishing features of the Murciélago LP640, making it unmistakable even at night. The design of the sides is also worth mentioning: while the area behind the air intake on the right side is practically closed, the left side features a vast aperture for cooling the oil radiator. Together with the aerodynamically defined front and rear, this proves yet again that the shape of a Lamborghini is dictated by function. Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. Corporate Image Dominik Hoberg [email protected] Comunicazione Sergio Fontana [email protected] Claudia Schneider [email protected] Valentina Boarini [email protected] Cristina Guizzardi (Museo) [email protected] Via Modena, 12 40019 Sant'Agata Bolognese Telefono +39 051-6817757 Telefax +39 051-6817737 www.lamborghini.com For those wishing to flaunt the heart of their Murciélago LP640, on request an engine hood made of transparent glass can be supplied. The rear view mirrors and the windscreen wipers have been modified to improve aerodynamics and "Hermera" light metal wheel rims have been added. The graphics of the instrument panel lights in the cockpit have been revamped. The interior upholstery also has a new look thanks to the lozenge-shaped stitching. More powerful engine The engine of the new Murciélago LP640 has undergone outstanding and radical modification. The increased bore and longer stroke have boosted the displacement of the classic 60° V-engine from 6.2 litres to 6.5 litres (6,496 cm3). Thus the already extraordinary 580 hp engine power has now been elevated to an impressive peak of 640 hp (471 kW) at 8,000 min-1. The 12-cylinder engine reaches a maximum torque of 660 Nm at 6,000 min-1. Naturally, the Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 complies with every European and North American law governing exhaust fumes. This "evolutionary leap forward" has been possible thanks to a coherent review of every engine component: the cylinder head and the entire intake system (based on the tried and tested Lamborghini variable geometry system), have been completely reworked. The crankshaft, camshafts and exhaust system have also undergone innovation. The increase in power naturally determines an increase in performance. The excellent performance of the Murciélago LP640 means it can now accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds (0.4 seconds faster than the previous model). Lamborghini engineers have also concentrated on improving torque development. The "drivability" of the engine is enhanced by a continuous variable timing system (intake and exhaust side) and a drive-by-wire engine management system. To meet the thermal requirements of the engine, the engineers have foreseen a considerably larger oil radiator and subsequently, the air intake on the left side of the vehicle has been enlarged. The liquid cooling system, characterised by the Lamborghini VACS system (variable geometry air inlet system) remains the same. Electronically managed air intakes open depending on the outdoor temperature and the need for cooling air, ensuring maximum aerodynamic efficiency. Gearbox and transmission: improved efficiency and strength More power and higher torque call for superior gearbox component performance. To meet these new demands, the new Murciélago LP640 features a modified sixratio gearbox as well as a tougher rear differential and new axle shafts. On request, the e-gear automatic gearbox is also available equipped with the new dedicated "Thrust" (acceleration programme) mode. Just like its predecessors, the Murciélago LP640 features permanent four-wheel drive, based on the reliable Lamborghini VT (Viscous Traction) system. The system is self-governing and does not feature any electronic controls. The drive force is usually divided between the front and rear axles in the ratio of 30 to 70. An independent control circuit adjusts the distribution of the drive force depending on dynamic oscillation, weight distribution and the relative friction factor in perfect synchronisation with the Visco clutch. In extreme cases, up to 100% of the drive force can be applied to a single axle. Electronics: a "closed loop" for total control The electronics have also been updated. The modified engine control units improve engine performance and "driveability" thanks to "closed loop" control. Every engine and vehicle parameter is managed and controlled by three "master" control units and a "satellite" control unit. The master control units consist of two Lamborghini "LIE" engine control units, a Lamborghini "GFA" (Auxiliary Function Management) control unit and a Lamborghini "PMC" (Power Motor Control) satellite control unit. The control units are interconnected by a CAN Bus line. Frame and chassis: perfect harmony The body of the Murciélago LP640 with its characteristic scissor doors is created from the prized union of sheet steel and honeycombed carbon fibre, glued and riveted together. Driving, handling and stability at high speed are enhanced by new springs and stabilisers, as well as by a redesigned electronically controlled damper. The "antidive" and "anti-squat" features on the axles, which efficiently prevent so- called "brake diving" and "squatting", have not been changed. The two springs on every rear wheel, the single spring on every front wheel and the damper are placed coaxially. The new aluminium "Hermera" rims measure 8 ½" x 18" (fore carriage) and 13" x 18" (rear axle). The vehicle can be fitted with various sized Pirelli P Zero "Rosso" tyres. The Murciélago LP640 features 245/35 ZR 18 front tyres and 335/30 ZR 18 rear tyres. For sports use, especially on racetracks, Lamborghini provides optional Pirelli P Zero "Corsa" (Race) tyres. Pirelli P "Sottozero" (Sub zero) winter tyres are currently being developed. Brakes and safety: optional ceramic carbon brakes A super sports car such as the Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 ensures high safety levels. The dual hydraulic circuit brake system equipped with a vacuum brake booster ensures considerable deceleration values. The self-ventilating front and rear brake disks measure 380 mm x 34 mm and 355 mm x 32 mm respectively. The control circuit of the four-channel anti-blocking system (ABS) with electronic brake control (DRP) and traction control (TCS) features a new characteristic curve. The system consists in an electro-hydraulic control unit and four speed sensors. When particularly high braking performance is required, on request it is possible to equip the vehicle with 380 mm x 36 mm ceramic carbon brakes featuring sixpiston brake callipers. Thus, less pressure needs to be applied to the brake pedal and the braking distance is reduced. Even in extremely demanding conditions there is almost no perceptible fading. Considerably reduced weight and superior lifetime represent two further advantages, as well as a captivating graphic design. The new Murciélago LP640 also meets with even the most rigorous safety requirements. Thanks to the two front airbags (a 60-litre single stage air bag on the driver side and a 130-litre two stage airbag on the passenger side), the Murciélago LP640 complies with every international law in effect in terms of head-on and side crashes, impacts against posts, occupant safety, fuel supply integrity and flammability of materials. The luggage compartment also complies with childproof safety regulations. Interior: even more exclusive and customised The seats in the cockpit have undergone the most radical changes; more spacious and equipped with redesigned head restraints, the seats now ensure better comfort. The leather upholstery features lozenge-shaped stitching called "Q- citura". The same design is recaptured on the upholstery on the door panels, the panel between the seats and the engine compartment, and on the roof panel. A new instrument panel has been developed with lights featuring a new graphic design, flanked by a new Kenwood car radio with a 6.5" widescreen monitor and DVD, MP3 and WMA player. An optional navigation system is also available (standard in Japan). Like its predecessors, the new Murciélago LP640 can be customised thanks to the special fittings and upholstery packages. For the first time, the renowned characteristic Murciélago Roadster asymmetric and driver-oriented fittings and upholstery are available for the Coupé, featuring a perforated leather driver's seat and door panel. Thanks to the "Privilegio" customisation program, any Murciélago LP640 can be transformed into a customised sports car. For example, the cockpit can be enhanced with an extremely refined carbon finish applied to the air conditioning control panel, the control lever console and the parking brake. Sant'Agata Bolognese, 22nd February 2006
For some reason, I don't trully like the Murci design. Too polite. Too rounded. Too smooth. I much prefer the Diablo. The new facelift is just r|cing out the current design.
AGREED.the current lamborghini designs are too SUBTLE.elegant?quite. exciting?so is an RS4. i started a thread(no one put their 2cents worth) regarding lambo's current design direction. while still eye-catching and "outrageous";both the murcie and gallardo lack a certain flair in their design;it's almost too TEUTONIC.both afforementioned cars are simply evolutions of the legendary COUNTACH's DNA.the diablo at leasthad an excuse;it was developed on a shoe-string($50mil in 1988) budget... the gallardo and murcie have audi's billions,technology,tooling and expertise. marcello gandini must be contacted and given a CHANCE to show what he feels is the next logical step for lamborghini,IMHO...after all,he IS the designer of the MIURA,COUNTACH,DIABLO,JALPA,ESPADA,LM002...
