The 2007 Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera
Why It's Special:
With the incredible success of the minimalist Porsche GT3 and Ferrari Challenge Stradale, Lamborghini launched their interpretation based upon the standard Gallardo coupe. Dubbed the Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera (meaning ‘super-light’ in Italian), it features miles of carbon fiber, numerous other high quality lightweight materials, a bare-bones interior and a revised version of the Gallardo’s virtuoso V10.
In total the Superleggera’s dry weight is 220 lbs (100 kgs) lighter, a considerable achievement. Even more astounding is that this car could have been lighter. It retains several creature comforts including power windows, vanity lighting, climate control and the standard brakes are made from steel (although lightweight carbon-ceramic discs are available).
Carbon fiber components are everywhere, but most notably on the: side mirrors, engine cover, door panels, rear diffuser and the undertray. The optional rear wing is also made from carbon fiber and produces an additional 110 lbs of downforce. Lightweight forged aluminum ‘Scorpius’ wheels with pure titanium lug nuts compliments the carbon fiber trim and reduces weight by a further 11 kgs.
Under the Hood:
The primal howl emanating from the lightweight exhaust system is thanks to 5.0 liter DOHC V10 engine, winding up to 8100rpm. Producing 523 horsepower, 376 lb-ft of torque and quite possibly the best noise found this side of a Grand Prix car, it is quite obvious why the Superleggera is not equipped with a radio.
Handling characteristics of Lamborghinis have sometimes been a bit scary, and that is putting it nicely. However, thanks to parent company Audi the Superleggera features a world class permanent four-wheel drive system, with a variable center and limited-slip rear differential.
Gear changes are mandated by Lamborghini’s “e-gear” sequential paddle shift system, and incorporate six forward gears plus reverse. For those customers wanting a direct connection to their powerplant, a manual transmission is available as an option.
The Verdict:
Needless to say the Superleggera is a serious performer, with 0-60 accomplished in 3.5 seconds, the quarter mile covered in 11.7 seconds at 127mph. Flat out you will hit 196mph and perhaps most complimenting of this car’s performance is a Nurburgring Nordschleife lap time 7 minutes and 46 seconds. This places it ahead of the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, Porsche 997 GT3 RS, Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and its big brother, the Lamborghini Murcielago LP640. That is what we'd like to call esteemed company and certainly cements the Superleggera among the world’s best sports cars.
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