Lamborghini Murcielago
The Bull That Ushered in a New Era
2001 - 2010
The impact of Audi taking over Lamborghini in 1998 was most massively felt when Lamborghini launched the mighty Murciélago. Since acquiring Lamborghini, Audi invested a lot of money to modernize the Sant'Agata factory and helped engineer the new Murciélago. Its high quality standards and testing procedures improved the new generation Lamborghinis a lot, making them far more reliable and user friendly than the past. The Murciélago was clearly an evolution of the Diablo design, wand was also powered by a naturally aspirated V12, now bigger than ever thanks to being stroked-out to 6192 cc (6.2 liters). Over the years the V12 was upgraded as was the entire Murciélago range.
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Overview
In the pantheon of supercars, few names resonate like Lamborghini, and among its revered lineup, the Murciélago holds a special place. Introduced in 2001 as the successor to the legendary Diablo, the Murciélago was a testament to Lamborghini's commitment to innovation, performance, and design. This blog post dives into the legacy of the Lamborghini Murciélago, exploring its design, performance, and enduring appeal.
The Lamborghini Murciélago, Spanish for "bat," was a marvel of automotive design. Its body, penned by the talented Luc Donckerwolke, was a modern interpretation of the classic Lamborghini silhouette, combining aggressive lines with aerodynamic efficiency. The scissor doors became a signature feature, adding to the car's dramatic flair. The use of carbon fiber and lightweight materials in its construction helped maintain a rigid structure while keeping weight to a minimum, enhancing its performance and handling.
At the heart of the Murciélago was a V12 engine, a hallmark of Lamborghini's engineering prowess. This powerplant was capable of producing upwards of 580 horsepower in its initial iteration, with later models like the LP 670-4 SuperVeloce boasting up to 670 horsepower. The car's performance figures were staggering, with acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in under 3.4 seconds and top speeds exceeding 200 mph. Coupled with an intelligent all-wheel-drive system, the Murciélago offered a driving experience that was both exhilarating and secure, embodying the perfect balance between raw power and sophisticated technology.
The Murciélago was more than just a fast car; it was a symbol of Lamborghini's resurgence in the 21st century. It showcased the brand's ability to evolve while staying true to its roots of producing high-performance, visually stunning vehicles. Throughout its production run, which ended in 2010, the Murciélago underwent several updates and spawned multiple variants, each more impressive than the last. It paved the way for its successor, the Aventador, and continued to influence the design and engineering of future Lamborghini models.
Today, the Lamborghini Murciélago is highly regarded by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its blend of dramatic styling, formidable V12 engine, and rarity make it a coveted piece in any supercar collection. As Lamborghini moves towards hybrid and electric models, the Murciélago stands as a reminder of the brand's golden era of naturally aspirated engines and unapologetic design.
The Lamborghini Murciélago remains an iconic figure in the world of supercars, embodying the essence of Lamborghini's rich heritage. It represents a pivotal moment in automotive history, a bridge between the past and the future, and continues to captivate the hearts of those who have the privilege of experiencing its power and beauty. As we look back on its legacy, the Murciélago is not just remembered for its speed or design, but as a masterpiece of automotive artistry that continues to inspire awe and admiration.
Lamborghini Murcielago Basics
Manufacturer: Lamborghini
Production Yrs: 2001 - 2010
Production Units: 4,099 units
Assembly: Sant'Agata, Italy
Layout: Longitudinal, Rear mid-engine, RWD/AWD
Engine: 6.2L - 6.5L V12
Original price: US$239k
Did You Know?
Buyers of the Murcielago LP 640 had the option of a transparent engine cover to show off that glorious V12 or could opt for a traditional solid body-colored cover.
Lamborghini wasn't shy about releasing special editions of the Murcielago. Some highlights include the 40th Anniversary Edition, the LP 650-4 Roadster, and the China Limited Edition.
"What Lamborghini has built with the Murciélago... is a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants supercar that is actually rather easy to drive fast.”
Jeremy Clarkson (Top Gear)
The Story. Lamborghini Murcielago History & Evolution
Murciélago FAQ
Lamborghini Murciélago prices when new?
When new, the price for a Lamborghini Murciélago started at US$354,000. By the time the Murcielago SV came around, a fully optioned model sold for US$450,000. The priciest Lamborghini Murciélago was the special edition Reventon, which sold 20 units at a whopping $1.5 million.
Lamborghini Murciélago prices currently?
Average prices today for a Murciélago are all over the place. At the bottom end, you can get into a used Murciélago for about US$180,000 for a higher mileage model. As expected, the limited edition later models like the Murcielago SV can go for over US$500,000.
Lamborghini Murciélago 0-60 times?
If you check out our specs area on this page you will see that the Murciélago was originally good for a 0-60mph sprint in around 3.8 seconds. Over time, with several updates and more power, the times dropped really quickly. The Murciélago SV was almost a half-second fast to 60 mph, with a 3.3 seconds sprint.
Lamborghini Murciélago top speed?
The Murciélago was good for more than 200 mph from the year it was launched. The factory said 205mph top speed, limited by rubber. By the end of production the Murciélago was being limited in top speed to around 212 mph due to tire technology in the SV.
The Murciélago was the first Lamborghini built under the watchful eye of the safe Audi executives. The concern about Audi watering down the extreme Lamborghini brand was unfounded because the Murciélago was an absolute screamer of a supercar from the very first day. What Audi did do is improve the overall quality and that was a great thing. In addition to the updated engine, the Murciélago saw other upgrades over the Diablo. The transmission was now 6-speed instead of the ancient 5-speed unit and the chassis handled much better.
The rest of the mechanical layout remains unchanged from Diablo 6.0. For example, the double-wishbones suspensions and the mandatory 4-wheel-drive system with viscous-coupling center differential are almost unaltered. The electronic adaptive damping and adjustable ride height for front wheels are still there. The ABS is improved, traction control is added, front tyres are marginally wider, and Pirelli specially designed P-Zero "Rosso" for this car. The Brembo brakes, with 355mm / 335mm discs front and rear and 4-pot calipers, are similar to the Diablo’s. The front to rear weight distribution is barely improved by 1% to 42:58. However, the biggest improvement is fine tuning all components to extract their real potential, and to make the controls easier to live with.
The second Murciélago variant was the Roadster. Luc Donckerwolcke made no secret that it was not his desire to design the Roadster, because the sweeping, flowing shape of Murcielago does not adapt well to roofless. The Murcielago Roadster has a cut-down windscreen, thus its overall height is 70 mm lower than the Coupe. Other dimensions remain intact. Performance was on-par with the coupe and on the road, the loss of chassis stiffness was for the first time not obvious to drivers.
In 2005 there was an evolution, called the Murciélago LP 640. With displacement now increased to 6.5 litres, the engine was rated at 631 hp. The exterior received a noticeable facelift, featuring revised front and rear fascias, and asymmetrical side air intakes, with the left side intake feeding an oil cooler. A new single outlet exhaust system incorporated into the rear diffuser, modified suspension system, revised programming, and upgraded clutch for the 6-speed "e-Gear" automated manual transmission with launch control rounded out the performance modifications. A Roadster version of the LP640 came later that year.
The most exciting Murciélago came in 2009, the Murciélago LP 670–4 SuperVeloce. It is the Murciélago we all want. Like the Diablo SV, the formula was to increase power, reduce weight and increase downforce. It worked. The SV was hailed by the automotive press as the best driving Lamborghini ever. The V12 engine sat under a new design bonnet made of carbon-fiber with its cool hexagonal windows made of polycarbonate. The engine is basically the same 6.5-liter unit in the standard car, with dual-VVT and 3-stage variable intake system, but now gets revised valve timing, higher valve lift and a new exhaust system. The result is 670 horsepower at 8000 rpm. Weight savings of 220+lbs and the added power meant the Murciélago would sharp, fast and fluid on the road in a way not seen from the Lamborghini-folk ever before. A fitting end.
Lamborghini Murcielago Variants
The new Lamborghini, which was known only as the L147 project during development, was first unveiled during an awesome show at the foot of the Etna volcano on Sicily. It had a mid-mount V12 engine, the transmission following the manufacturer’s typical arrangement with the gearbox located in front of the engine and the rear differential “integrated” in the powertrain, permanent 4WD with a central viscous coupling. The rather controversial styling of this new Lamborghini stirred some emotions from both owners and enthusiasts all over the world. Over the years the V12 engine in the Murcielago was upgraded as was the entire Murciélago range.
Production Models
Murciélago (2001–2006)
Murciélago Roadster (2004–2006)
Murciélago LP 640 (2006–2010)
Murciélago LP 640 Roadster (2006–2010)
Murciélago LP 650–4 Roadster (2009)
Murciélago LP 670–4 SV (2009–2010)
Special Editions
Murciélago 40th Anniversary Edition (2004)
Murciélago LP 640 Versace (2006)
Murciélago LP 670–4 SV China (2010)
Miura Concept (2006)
Reventon (2007)
Race Models
Murciélago R-GT (2004 - 2009)
Murciélago RG-1 (2004 - 2009)
Murciélago LP670 R-SV (2010 - 2011)
Lamborghini Murciélago
Years: 2001 - 2006
Engine: 6.2L V12
Power: 576.6 bhp @ 7,500 rpm
Torque: 479.4 ft lbs @ 4,000 rpm
0-60 mph: 3.8 seconds
Top Speed: 210 mph
The 6.2 liter V12 engine an evolution of the Diablo 6.0 power plant. The highlight of the new engine is two new variable systems. This car lives up to its namesake, Murcielago, the strongest fighting bull of all time.
Lamborghini Murciélago Roadster
Years: 2004 - 2006
Engine: 6.2L V12
Power: 580 bhp @ 7,500 rpm
Torque: 479.4 ft lbs @ 4,000 rpm
0-60 mph: 3.89 seconds
Top Speed: 205 mph
The Roadster, introduced in 2004, is a breathtaking manifestation of open-air exhilaration combined with aggressive aesthetics and performance. Roadster's design included slight modifications for improved aerodynamics and safety without a fixed roof
Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640
Years: 2006 - 2010
Engine: 6.2L V12
Power: 640 bhp @ 8,000 rpm
Torque: 486.8 ft lbs @ 6,000 rpm
0-60 mph: 3.3 seconds
Top Speed: 211 mph
The next step in the Murciélago evolution was the LP640 model. A larger front spoiler and new rear mirrors were part of the minor cosmetic changes. The engine in the LP640 had undergone radical modification.
Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 Roadster
Years: 2006 – 2010
Engine: 6.5L V12
Power: 640 bhp @ 8,000 rpm
Torque: 486.8 ft lbs @ 6,000 rpm
0-60 mph: 3.4 seconds
Top Speed: 205 mph
The Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 Roadster benefited from the same extensive modifications to the bodywork and mechanics as the LP640 Coupé, as well as delivering its own distinct character.
Lamborghini Murciélago LP 670–4 SuperVeloce
Years: 2009 - 1010
Engine: 6.5L V12
Power: 670 bhp @ 8,000 rpm
Torque: 478 ft lbs @ 6,500 rpm
0-60 mph: 3.2 seconds
Top Speed: 212 mph
Think of the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce as even more powerful, lighter and faster Murciélago LP 640. With the output of the 6.5 liter V12 increased to 670 hp and a weight reduction of 220 lbs it is a beast.
Lamborghini Murciélago LP650–4 Roadster
Years: 2009
Engine: 6.5L V12
Power: 670 bhp @ 8,000 rpm
Torque: 478 ft lbs @ 6,500 rpm
0-60 mph: 3.3 seconds
Top Speed: 205 mph
The Roadster version had 6.5 litre V12 engine that produces 650 hp along with permanent four-wheel drive. The special edition model (50 units only) combines grey bodywork with a special bright orange offset.
Lamborghini Murciélago Special Editions & Race Variants
Below is a list of the Lamborghini Murciélago Special Editions. This was the first time we saw Lamborghini really add special editions to the range in some real schedule. Each of these Murciélago variants have their own unique features and designs that separate them from your standard production Murciélago models.
Lamborghini Murciélago 40th Anniv. Edition
Years: 2005
Engine: 6.5L V12
Power: 580 bhp @ 7,500 rpm
Torque: 479 ft lbs @ 4,000 rpm
0-60 mph: 3.28 seconds
Top Speed: 205 mph
To celebrate Lamborghini’s 40th Anniversary, the House of the Raging Bull offered a special, limited edition series of its supercar Murcielago. A limited amount of 50 numbered cars were produced.
Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 Versace
Years: 2006
Engine: 6.5L V12
Power: 640 bhp @ 8,000 rpm
Torque: 487 ft lbs @ 6,000 rpm
0-60 mph: N/A
Top Speed: 211 mph
Lamborghini released a special edition of their flagship LP640. It was the work of Versace and sports particular custom appointments. There was a Coupe and Roadster version.
Lamborghini Murciélago LP670–4 SV China
Years: 2010
Engine: 6.5L V12
Power: 670 bhp @ 8,000 rpm
Torque: 478 ft lbs @ 6,500 rpm
0-60 mph: 3.2 seconds
Top Speed: 212 mph
Limited to only ten cars worldwide, the special edition Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce was designed and manufactured exclusively for China’s most discriminating super sports car enthusiasts.
Lamborghini Miura Concept
Years: 2006
Engine: N/A
Power: N/A
Torque: N/A
0-60 mph: N/A
Top Speed: N/A
The Lamborghini Miura Concept, a modern interpretation of the Lamborghini Miura. Currently celebrating its fortieth anniversary. The new concept model which, as of now, is strictly a concept with no firm date set for its production launch, is the inspired creation of Walter de Silva.
Lamborghini Reventon
Years: 2007 - 2009
Engine: 6.5L V12
Power: 641 hp @ 8,000 rpm
Torque: 487 lb-ft @ 6,000 rpm
0-60 mph: 3.4 seconds
Top Speed: 210 mph
The Reventon was the outrageous Lamborghini and some say the styling went too far. But that’s fine since a limited production of only 20 examples were made. The Reventon is a strong mix of acute and obtuse angles that mimic the Murcielago lines in a whole new and more frantic way. We loved it.
Murciélago R-GT
Years: 2004 - 2009
Engine: Nat Aspirated V12
Power: N/A
Torque: N/A
0-60 mph: 3.1 seconds
Top Speed: N/A
The long-awaited return of Lamborghini to professional sports car racing became reality with the Murcielago R-GT. It was developed jointly with Reiter Engineering and parent company Audi’s sports division Audi Sport. Clients got an amazing experience and lots of attention.
Murciélago RG-1
Years: 2004 - 2009
Engine: Nat Aspirated V12
Power: N/A
Torque: N/A
0-60 mph: N/A
Top Speed: N/A
It is a version of R-GT built for Super GT for Japanese Lamborghini Owners Club (JLOC). In March 2006, the RG-1 recorded a win in the GT300 class at the Super GT Suzuka 500 km race. There was also an RG-1LM endurance version that was developed to compete in LeMans.
Murciélago LP670 R-SV
Years: 2010 - 2011
Engine: Nat Aspirated V12
Power: N/A
Torque: N/A
0-60 mph: N/A
Top Speed: N/A
The R-SV was an evolution of the R-GT developed to comply with the FIA rules for the new FIA GT1 World Championship. Reiter ran two cars and the other two were run by All-Inkl.com Münnich Motorsport. Reiter saw success winning two Championship races.
Lamborghini Murcielago Specs & Performance
A summary of production Murcielago specifications and performance numbers.
Our Favorite Lamborghini Murcielago Images
"The Murcielago is a car that defines an era and a brand. It is a statement of intent, a supercar without compromise, a car shaped by passion and engineering brilliance."
Car Magazine
