Lamborghini News
2006 L.A. Auto Show - Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 Roadster
By source: Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A.
Nov 30, 2006, 07:44

The Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 Roadster benefits from the same extensive modifications to the bodywork and mechanics as the LP640 Coupe, as well as delivering its own distinctive character.

In their re-interpretation of the Roadster, the designers of the Lamborghini Centro Stile have remained true to the original style principles of purism, sportiness and functionality. As with the Coupe it has now assumed a more aggressive appearance, a substantial influence being the new front and rear bumpers. On the latter there is a new rear diffuser, in which the exhaust system is integrated within a tailpipe. The rear lights are also new, increasing the distinguishing features and making the Murcielago Roadster as unmistakable at night as in daylight. The asymmetrical design of the sides is particularly striking. Whilst the area behind the air inlet on the right is almost closed, on the left there is a large opening for the ventilation of the oil cooler. This, in addition to the aerodynamic form of the front and rear, is an illustration of how functionality dictates the shape of a Lamborghini.



Changes to the rear-view mirror to make the Murcielago Roadster more aerodynamic, with other features including new windscreen wipers and the option of new Hermera allow wheels.

The instrument panel has also been redesigned with different graphics. This includes a new Kenwood car radio with a 6.5 inch widescreen monitor and reader for DVD, MP3 and WMA. The navigation system (standard equipment in Japan) is also available as an option.

The maximum speed now lies at 330 km/h compared to 320 km/h. The standard spring from 0 to 100 km/h is now reached by the Murcielago LP640 Roadster in an excellent 3.4 seconds making it 0.4 seconds faster than its forerunner.



Higher performance and torque naturally means increased demand on the drive components. A six-gear transmission adapted to these requirements, plus a stronger rear differential and new half-axles, have therefore been deployed in the new Murcielago Roadster. An e-gear transmission with a newly tuned thrust mode (acceleration program) is also available as an option.

First and foremost, the newly designed frame structure parts made of steel and carbon fibre guarantee an unswerving torsion resistance even without a roof. A special reinforcement structure in the engine area makes a major contribution to this aspect. This optically distinctive reinforcement can also be delivered in carbon fibre on request. Without impairing the extreme character of a typical roadster, a canvas roof (R.top) can be fitted which, true to the design tradition of this type of vehicle, is principally conceived for temporary use (for example in a sudden shower of rain) and for speeds of up to 160 km/h.



With its characteristic wing doors, the bodywork of the Murcielago LP640 Roadster is still made from an extremely high quality combined structure of sheet steel and carbon honeycomb. The combination of these materials is achieved by bonding and riveting.

Its hydraulic dual circuit braking system with LP-brake servo (unit) ensures impressive delay values under even the hardest strain. The internally ventilated brake disks measure 380 mm x 34 mm at the front and 355 mm x 32 mm at the rear. The closed loop of the four-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) is enhanced, with electronic braking management (DRP) and traction control (TCS). The system consists of an electro-hydraulic control unit and four sensors for the wheel speeds.



When extremely high performance braking is required it is possible to equip the vehicle with carbon ceramic brakes measuring 380 mm x 36 mm with six-piston-brake calipers, which reduce pressure on the brake pedal and shorten the braking distance. Even under the toughest strain, there is almost no brake fading. Substantially reduced weight and greater durability are further advantages in addition to the carbon ceramic brakes’ attractive appearance.

The new Murcielago LP640 Roadster meets rigorous standards in terms of passive safety. With two front-seat air bags, a 60-litre airbag on the driver’s side and a 130-litre airbag on the passenger side, it meets all existing world-wide standards in the event of head-on and side crashes, impact against poles, occupant safety in the case of accident, duel supply integrity and fuel combustibility. The luggage compartment also complies with the childproof safety regulations. The Murcielago LP640 Roadster has automatically lowered roll bars; if electronic control of this device detects a critical situation, the roll bars shoot out behind the seats within just a few milliseconds.

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