Sant’Agata Bolognese, 22 February 2006
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 quilted
upholstery also has a new look thanks to the lozenge-shaped stitching.
Increased engine power
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 the European and
North American pollution regulations.
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 Murciélago LP640 also meets with 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.
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