|
Price |
|
-- |
Production |
|
-- |
|
Engine |
6.5
liter V12 |
Weight |
-- |
|
Aspiration |
natural |
Torque |
487
lb-ft @ 6000 rpm |
|
HP |
631
hp @ 8000 rpm |
HP/Weight |
-- |
|
HP/Liter |
98.5
hp per liter |
1/4 mile |
-- |
|
0-62 mph |
3.4
seconds |
Top Speed |
-- |
(from Lamborghini
Press Release) 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.
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
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.
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 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.
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.
