Automobili Lamborghini will present the passionately developed evolution of the Lamborghini Murcielago Coupe at the 76th International Car Show in Geneva next week. Its new name, Murcielago LP640, refers to its engine position, 'longitudinale posteriore
', and to its power output of 640 hp.
Designers and engineers have not only focused on reworking the engine, suspension, gearbox, exhaust system, brakes and electronics, but also the interior and exterior design. In their reinterpretation of the Murcielago, the designers at the Lamborghini Style Centre have made the LP640 even more aggressive.
The new car features a ton of new bits which include front and rear bumpers, a single exhaust tip incorporated in the rear diffuser, new rear lights, improved mirrors, improved windscreen wipers, revamped instrument panel lights and aerodynamically defined front and rear wings. For those wishing to flaunt the heart of their Murcielago LP640, on request an engine hood made of transparent glass can be supplied.
The engine of the new Murcielago LP640 has undergone radical modification. The increased bore and stroke have boosted the displacement of the classic 60° V12 from 6.2 litres to 6.5 litres (6496 cc). Thus, the already extraordinary 580 hp has now been elevated to an impressive peak of 640 hp (471 kW) at 8,000 rpm. This means the LP640 can now accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 3.4 seconds (0.4 seconds faster than the previous model), with a top speed of over 200mph.
This evolutionary leap forward has been possible thanks to a review of every engine component: the cylinder head and the entire variable intake system, have been completely reworked as well as the crankshaft, camshafts and exhaust system. Naturally, the Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 complies with every European and North American law governing exhaust fumes.
More power and higher torque call for superior gearbox component performance. To meet these new demands, the new Murcielago 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 acceleration program mode.
Just like its predecessors, the Murcielago 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.
Driving, handling and stability at high speed are enhanced by new springs and stabilisers, as well as by a redesigned electronically controlled damper. The new aluminium Hermera rims measure 18 inches and can be fitted with various sized Pirelli P Zero Rosso tyres.
The dual circuit brake system is larger and comes equipped an anti-blocking system (ABS) with electronic brake control (DRP) and traction control (TCS) with a new characteristic curve. 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.
LP640 get an even more exclusive and customised interior. The seats in the cockpit have undergone the most radical changes and are now more spacious and equipped with redesigned head restraints. The leather upholstery features lozenge-shaped stitching called Q-citura. A new instrument panel has been developed with lights featuring a new graphic design. Like its predecessors, the new Murcielago LP640 can be customised thanks to the special fittings and upholstery packages. For the first time, the renowned characteristic Murcielago Roadster asymmetric and driver-oriented fittings and upholstery are available for the Coupe.
Thanks to the Privilegio customisation program, any Murcielago 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.
Since the original Murcielago's debut at Frankfurt Motor Show in 2001, around 2,000 vehicles have left the car plant in Sant' Agata Bolognese. The first LP640s will be available in spring 2006.
