2009 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder
With the new Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder, Lamborghini once again sets a higher standard for super sports cars. With its new engine, permanent four-wheel drive transmission and new suspension, it delivers clearly improved performance and dynamics. In parallel, its innovative design takes the classic lines unique to the Lamborghini brand one step further. Powerful elegance has never been so defined before. With the new Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder, Lamborghini has created a driving experience like absolutely no other – fascinating design, breathtaking performance and extreme handling characteristics come together with all the sensual intensity and open-air pleasure that only a soft top super sports car can deliver.
In its new generation, the Gallardo Spyder represents more than ever before automotive passion in its purest form. As in the Coupé, its enormous power is delivered by the new 5.2 litre V10 with an output of 560 hp (412 kW) at 8,000 rpm. The increase in 40 hp (29 kW) over its predecessor, as well as the 44 pound (20 kilogram) reduction in vehicle weight, improves the power-to-weight ratio to 6.10 pounds (2.77 kg) per hp, thus improving performance even further.
The LP 560-4 Spyder takes only 4.0 seconds to sprint from 0 to 62 mph (0 to 100 km/h), reaching 124 mph (0 to 200 km/h) in only 13.1 seconds and going on to a top speed of 201 mph (324 km/h). The new driveline, featuring the “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata” direct fuel injection system also makes for impressive efficiency. Despite the considerable increase in performance, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced by a staggering 18 percent.
Engineers at the Ufficio Tecnico Lamborghini, Sant’Agata-based Technical Department, have also improved traction, handling and stability at high speeds. The redesigned four-wheel drive transmission, the new suspension, the improved stiffness of the Spyder bodyshell and the optimised aerodynamics all contribute to the overall improvements in the vehicle, as do the reduced weight and decreased friction throughout the components.
Thus the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder presents itself as a razor-sharp super sports car with the precision reactions of a high-performance athlete. The car is also surprisingly suited to long-distance driving and, despite its extreme performance capabilities, is easy to control whilst maintaining utmost stability. Above all, the impressive Lamborghini technology takes on a new, intense edge in the Spyder, with the glorious feel of the open air rushing by.
The style – Powerful elegance
Even more than the Coupé, the Spyder places emphasis on the powerful basic wedge form, complemented by the tightly cut soft top. Each evolution of the Lamborghini form is strictly dictated by the demands of function. The redesigned front end lends the LP 560-4 a firm, low stance that also contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency. In line with the increased engine output, the enlarged and clearly accentuated air intakes increase the air flow critical to such a high performance automobile. The spoiler, positioned low between the air intakes, improves aerodynamic stability at high speeds.
The new headlights have characteristic daytime running lights integrated beneath the bi-xenon lamps. 15 LEDs are arranged in a Y form, with the same pattern repeating in the rear tail-lights. The rear and brake lights were inspired by the Miura concept, the Murciélago LP640 and the Reventón. The Y-shaped elements are now signature features of contemporary Lamborghini models, appearing most recently in the Estoque concept car, the innovative super sports saloon from Sant’Agata.
The completely redesigned rear gives new meaning to the term “powerful elegance”. The rear lights, air cooling vents, bumper and diffuser are precisely arranged to add tremendous visual breadth to the LP 560-4 Spyder, while sustaining its firm bond with the road surface. In addition, the streamlined covers left and right of the bonnet accentuate the powerful shoulders and the taut lines of the new Gallardo.
The new exhaust system is beautifully finished by four chrome plated tail pipes. The rear diffuser has been redesigned to deliver more downforce and, together with the smooth underbody, it contributes to the vehicle’s excellent directional stability, even at very high speeds. Overall, aerodynamic efficiency in terms of downforce has been improved significantly in comparison with its predecessor – the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder tackles fast curves with even greater refinement.
The bodyshell – Intelligent lightweight design
Weight is undesirable in a sports car and lightweight design is good for dynamics. Aluminium is much lighter that steel – which is why the bodyshell of the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder has an aluminium structure that is more lightweight, yet stiffer. With its lighter engine, the two-seater boasts a dry weight of only 3417.2 Ibs (1,550 kg) – 44 pounds (20 kg) less than its predecessor.
The interior- Luxurious individuality
Despite its low exterior height, the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder welcomes its passengers with a spacious interior – even when the top is closed. The sports seats are upholstered in either fine leather or Alcantara® and provide firm hold and support. The seats are mounted low, as is typical for sports cars, and behind them is additional luggage space to complement the 110 litre capacity luggage compartment at the front of the vehicle.
The wide middle console is one of the elements that characterize the impression of sporty dynamism in the interior. It accommodates the standard Lamborghini audio and multimedia system, as well as the dual-zone climate control. Between these two units is a newly designed module housing classically elegant toggle switches. Seven instrument dials boasting new graphics provide the driver with essential engine data, while a multi-functional display between the speedometer and rev counter furnishes him with important information from the on-board computer.
The engine- Extreme power in every situation
The engine of the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder is a completely new development. All that remains is the number of cylinders, – that magical ten – which provides a perfect synthesis of high-revs, pulling power, athletic agility, compact dimensions and low weight that is unique within this performance class.
The engine has a displacement of 5.2 liters (5204 cm3 ), generating an extreme 560 hp (412 kW) at 8,000 rpm – giving class-topping output per litre of 107.6 hp. The engine delivers a maximum torque of 398 Ib-ft (540 Nm) at 6,500 rpm. The ample torque curve guarantees outstanding thrust at all engine speeds. With acceleration of 4.0 seconds from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) and a top speed of 201 mph (324 km/h), the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder shoots into the orbit of the most extreme high-performance sports cars and is only one km/h less swift than the LP 560-4 Coupé.
Even more astounding is the fact that engineers at Sant’Agata succeeded in lowering the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of the super sports car by 18 percent, despite a considerable improvement in performance. Relative to engine power and performance, the average fuel consumption of the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder e.gear is astonishingly low at only 16mpg combined (20 hwy/13city) (14 litres per 100 kilometres).
Direct fuel injection makes for efficient combustion
The new V10 uses the direct fuel-injection system “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata” as an innovative way to optimize performance in all conditions, while achieving moderate fuel consumption. The fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber from a common-rail system at pressures of up to 100 bar via laterally-position injectors. This ensures the perfect “tumble” of the homogeneous fuel/air mixture and forms the basis of highly efficient combustion.
Direct injection boosts the extremely efficient full-load performance of the V10, reduces its knock sensitivity, provides an internal cooling effect and thus facilitates a very high compression ratio of 12.5:1. The cylinder heads have been optimised to deliver a rapid charge cycle, while the variable valve control system on all four camshafts improves charge efficiency across the entire engine speed range.
Transmission – All-wheel drive refinement
Such extreme power must be delivered to the road safely. The driver of a Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder can thus rely on the viscous traction permanent all-wheel drive system – the number 4 in the model name serves as a reminder of this. Lamborghini introduced this system as early as 1993, with the Diablo VT – and for good reason. Four driven wheels achieve more grip than two and permit earlier acceleration when exiting a curve.
Located in the driveline is a central viscous coupling, which requires no electronic control. In this Lamborghini-specific configuration, driving power is distributed between front and rear at a standard ratio of 30:70, adapting to variations in road conditions within a matter of milliseconds. A mechanical differential on the rear axle providing up to 45% limited slip, and an electronic differential lock at the front complete the all-wheel drive system.
The automated e.gear transmission has been completely redesigned and improved in all aspects. The complete system is not only considerably lighter, but the time required to change gear in corsa mode has also been reduced by 40 per cent. The driver can change gear manually using the shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel – or he can leave it entirely up to the automatic mode, which ensures extremely refined dynamics.
If the driver changes gear manually using the steering wheel paddles, he can choose from three different drive programs. Alongside the standard program, the Gallardo also offers the sport mode with even shorter shift times, while the corsa program delivers optimum engine acceleration.
ESP is active in all drive programs, engaging later in the sport and corsa modes and reducing the impact of the traction control. The corsa mode also permits greater drift and enables the complete dynamic spectrum of the LP 560-4 Spyder to be appreciated on the race track – while still leaving plenty of room for safety. The Lamborghini thrust mode facilitates maximum acceleration from a standstill. The throttle valve angle and clutch travel have been optimized specifically for this purpose.
Intense road holding
Precise, breathtakingly fast, yet stable and free from surprises – the Gallardo’s dynamics deliver a sensuous experience. At the limit, the tyres (235/35 ZR 19 front and 295/30 ZR 19 rear) appear to bond with the road surface. The wheels are clad in Pirelli P-Zero series tyres, specially developed for Lamborghini. They boast particularly low rolling resistance and thus contribute to reduced fuel consumption without any compromise in performance. At speeds of more than 75 mph (over 120 km/h), an automatically-deploying rear spoiler increases the down force on the rear axle. It works together with the specially formed underbody, which directs the airflow under the car.
The new brake system comes with brutal stopping power. At the front, eight-cylinder Brembo callipers grip 14.37 in (365 mm) diameter discs, while four-cylinder callipers and 14 in (356 mm) discs take up the rear. The new disc ventilation also improves brake fade under extreme load conditions.
Highly stable carbon fibre ceramic discs are available as an option. At the front the CCB (Carbon Ceramic Brake) discs measure 15 in (380mm) diameter and at the rear 14 in (356mm). They deliver improved performance with reduced weight. The CCB system significantly reduces weight, which improves dynamics and comfort.
Equipment and trim – Top-class individuality
The possibilities available in the “Ad Personam” individualisation program are virtually inexhaustible. Behind this program stands the philosophy that a super sports car, as a significant expression of the personality of its owner, should fit perfectly to his desires and expectations. This is particularly true for a car as highly emotional as the Spyder. As a consequence, the finest exclusivity is the trademark of Lamborghini’s individualisation program. “Think the Impossible” is its motto.
“Ad Personam” offers a host of options to bring highly individual style to both the interior and exterior of a Lamborghini. One new highlight in the program is three matt-lustre colour options – Nero Nemesis (matt black), Bianco Canopus (matt white), Marrone Apus (matt brown). These colours, applied using a specialist and highly sophisticated process, bring particular emphasis to the purist precision of Lamborghini design.
In Detail
| type | Series Production Car |
| released at | 2008 LA Auto Show |
| built at | Italy |
| price £/td> | £160,000 |
| engine | 90° V10 w/Dry Sump Lubrication |
| position | Mid Longitudinal |
| aspiration | Natural |
| ignition | Coil-On-Plug |
| block material | Aluminum Alloy |
| valvetrain | Chain-Driven DOHC 4 Valves per Cyl w/VVT & Variable Intake Manifold |
| fuel feed | Direct Fuel Injection |
| displacement | 5204 cc / 317.57 in³ |
| bore | 84.5 mm / 3.3 in |
| stroke | 92.8 mm / 3.7 in |
| compression | 12.5:1 |
| power | 412 kw / 552.5 bhp @ 8000 rpm |
| specific output | 106.17 bhp per litre |
| bhp/weight | 345.96 bhp per tonne |
| torque | 540 nm / 398.3 ft lbs @ 6500 rpm |
| body / frame | Aluminum & Thermoplastic Body over Aluminum Spaceframe |
| driven wheels | 4WD w/Viscous Traction System, ESP, ASR |
| wheel type | Aluminium Alloy Apollo Wheels |
| front tires | Pirelli Pzero 235/35 ZR 19 |
| rear tires | Pirelli Pzero 295/30 ZR 19 |
| front brakes | Carbon Ceramic Vented Discs w/8-Piston Brembo Specialist Calipers |
| f brake size | 38 x 380 mm / 1.5 x 15.0 in |
| rear brakes | Carbon Ceramic Vented Discs w/4-Piston Brembo Specialist Calipers |
| r brake size | 32 x 356 mm / 1.3 x 14 in |
| front wheels | F 48.3 x 21.6 cm / 19 x 8.5 in |
| rear wheels | R 48.3 x 27.9 cm / 19 x 11 in |
| steering | Rack & Pinion w/Power Assist |
| f suspension | Double Wishbones w/Coil Springs, Gas-Filled Shock Absorbers, Anti-Roll Bar |
| r suspension | Double Wishbones w/Coil Springs, Gas-Filled Shock Absorbers, Anti-Roll Bar |
| curb weight | 1597 kg / 3517 lbs |
| weight distro | 43 % / 57 % |
| wheelbase | 2560 mm / 100.8 in |
| front track | 1632 mm / 64.3 in |
| rear track | 1597 mm / 62.9 in |
| length | 4345 mm / 171.1 in |
| width | 1900 mm / 74.8 in |
| height | 1184 mm / 46.6 in |
| transmission | 6-Speed Robotized Sequential E-Gear |
| tran clutch | Double plate 215 mm (8.46 in) |
| top speed | ~323.41 kph / 201 mph |
| 0 – 60 mph | ~3.9 seconds |
| fuel econ epa | 14 L/100 km or 17 mpg-us |
| city fuel econ epa | 21 L/100 km or 21 mpg-us |
| hwy fuel econ epa | 10 L/100 km or 10 mpg-us |
| fuel capacity | 80 litres or 21.12 gal. |
