2007 Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 Roadster review

Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 Roadster review:

Lamborghini presented the new version of the Murcielago Roadster at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show. The Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 Roadster benefits from the same extensive modifications to the bodywork and mechanics as the LP640 Coupe, as well as delivering its own distinct character.

In their re-interpretation of the Roadster, the designers of the Lamborghini Centro Stile have remained true to the original style principles of purism, sportiness and functionality. As with the Coupe it has now assumed a more aggressive appearance, a substantial influence being the new front and rear bumpers. On the latter there is a new rear diffuser, in which the exhaust system is integrated within a tailpipe. The rear lights are also new, increasing the distinguishing features and making the Murcielago Roadster as unmistakable at night as in daylight. The asymmetrical design of the sides is particularly striking. Whilst the area behind the air inlet on the right is almost closed, on the left there is a large opening for the ventilation of the oil cooler. This, in addition to the aerodynamic form of the front and rear, is an illustration of how functionality dictates the shape of Lamborghini.

Changes to the rear-view mirror make the Murcielago Roadster more aerodynamic, with other features including new windscreen wipers and the option of new Hermera alloy wheels.

From its forerunner, the Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster LP640 has inherited the characteristic asymmetrical interior arrangement. The whole interior is tailored to the driver and arranged in such a way that a true driver-focused experience is offered; a car which challenges yet at the same time is entirely geared to the driver. This is illustrated in the use of perforated leather for the chair cushions, the dashboard tunnel console and the door lining on the driver’s side.

The instrument panel has also been redesigned with different display graphics. This includes a new Kenwood car radio with a 6.5 in widescreen monitor and reader for DVD, MP3, and WMA. The navigation system is also available as an option. Like its predecessor, the Murcielago LP640 Roadster can be customized through special equipment packages. The ‘ad personam’ individualization program offers even more scope to create a personal, unmistakable individual sports car.

A More Powerful Engine

As with the coupe the new 6.5 liter V12 engine with 640 bhp and 486 lb-ft torque is now used. Naturally the Lamborghini meets all the current valid European and North American emissions standards.

The increased power naturally leads to increased road performance. The maximum speed now lies at 330 km/h compared to 320 km/h. The standard sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is now reached in an excellent 3.4 seconds making it .4 seconds faster than its forerunner.

The engineers also focused their attention on optimizing the torque band. The driveability of the engine thus benefits from the use of a continually variable timing system and engine management with Drive-by-Wire-System.