Even though most people find it difficult to consider a $200,000 automobile affordable, it is the position the Laborghini Gallardo finds itself in the lambo product lineup. Sports cars that have got exotic looks and the matching performance have an inbuilt ownership audience.
Even though the Gallardo lacks the extreme flair and spirit which is often associated with the more expensive and legendary offerings of its company, its trade off has proved with no doubt that the Gallardo is a real world class exotic.
The 2013 model: Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4
The LP560-4 is presently available in a car body style as a Spyder convertible. Its LP560-4 name refers to the position of its engine, “longitudinale posteriore” or simply longitudinal rear. In terms of European measurement, it has got a horsepower of 560ps with all the four wheels powered. The 2013 model of Lamborghini Gallardo has also got two light versions, namely the LP 570-4 Spyder Performante and the LP 570-4 Superleggera coupe.
The LP560-4 is motorized by a 5 liter V10 engine, which is good for a torque of 398 pounds feet and 552 horsepower. It consists of a standard 6-speed manual transmission system with a gated metal shifter and also an optional automated 6-speed sequential shift manual transmission termed as “e-gear”. The LP570-4 models produce 398 lb-ft of torque and 562 hp by taking advantage of some clever tuning.
When it comes to the design and the general layout, the Lamborghini Gallardo is without a doubt a true exotic. The chassis being made of a composite blend of stampings, castings and extrusions of alloys, the weight is kept down. Apart from the conventionally opening steel doors, its exterior is made of panels formed by thermoplastics. To reduce the weight further, the other light weight models are made of carbon-fiber interior and exterior components, lighter 19-inch wheels and the polycarbonate side and rear windows. The car’s inside presents a high level of comfort with soft touch materials and precisely fitting leather.
Even though it is a sports car, the seats are comfortable enough to let someone take it for an occasional road trip. It has a tight storage space with some small amount of room at the back of the seats and in the trunk.
The 2012 Lamborghini Gallardo
This is a wild child which has the ability to provide you with all the expected thrills from an exotic sports car. The LP550-2 is motorized by a 5.2-liter V10 which sends 550 hp and a torque of 397 pound-feet to the rear wheels. It is expected to go from 0 to 60mph in the mid range of 3 seconds.
It includes standard safety equipment such as side airbags, stability control, antilock brakes and rearview-camera. It also consists of a more livable cabin than the earlier models before it with further advancements such as the supportive and comfortable seats, and the sound driving position. The performance of the 2012 Lamborghini Gallardo in terms of driving is just as otherworldly as anyone would expect from an exotic car.
Rivals of the Lamborghini Gallardo
As it is the case for any product in a competitive market, the Lamborghini Gallardo has rivals in form of Ferrari 458 Italia, Audi R8, Aston Martin V12 Vantage, as well as Mercedes-Benz’s SLS AMG.
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is powered by a 6.2 liter V8. Among all the current products of Mercedes, it is the one with the best steering.
Audi R8 on the other hand is a reinvented clone of Gallardo. Its intention was originally to challenge Porsche 911, even though currently it has evolved into a competitor of Gallardo. It has a progressive, smooth and compliant mid-engine coupe; however it shouldn’t be mistaken to be soft, boring or passive. When it gets on the road, the Audi R8 is a perfect 4-season sports car for all those that can afford a light travel.
The Porsche 911 is a car which shouldn’t be driven by incompetent drivers. It has seats which feel similar to screw clamps even without the red, 5-point safety harness, bondage style. Getting used to this car may take longer than expected due to its impossible distribution of weight.
Ferrari 458 Italia is a sports car which pushes the envelope of high-tech to a high level. It has got a hyper-quick steering, ground breaking ergonomics, riveting brakes and so many other wonderful features. It is powered by a 4.5-liter V-8.
With all those models, you are greatly advised to test drive them all, not because that is what is expected from a good and smart consumer; but it also sounds like a fantastic and fun way of spending a weekend.
Leave a Reply