The new Lamborghini Murciélago LP640

Press Release

Automobili Lamborghini will present the passionately developed evolution of

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.

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.

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, characterized 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.

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 synchronization with the Visco clutch. In extreme cases, up to

100% of the drive force can be applied to a single axle.

The electronics have also been updated. The modified engine control units

improve engine performance and "drivability" 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

stabilizers, 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 aluminum "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 customized 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" customization program, any Murciélago LP640 can be

transformed into a customized 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.