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 of 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 LP640 the
most extreme and fastest sports car in its class, placing it at the very
top.
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.
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.
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 PS (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 (62 mph) 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 & Transmission: Improved Efficiency & StrengthMore
power and higher torque call for superior gearbox component
performance. To meet these new demands, the new Murciélago LP640
features a modified six- ratio 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. 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 anti- dive 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.
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
six- piston 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.
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 Ad Personam 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.
