February 23, 2006 Spend an hour running your eyes over the current model Lamborghini Murciélago and you might find difficulty attempting to conceptualise doing it any differently. Yet all things must pass, and next week Automobili Lamborghini will present the "passionately developed evolution of the Lamborghini Murciélago Coupé" at the 76th International Car Show in Geneva. The new version features considerable innovation in terms of body design and mechanics. Its new name, Murciélago LP640, refers to the position its new 6.5 litre V12 engine - longitudinale posteriore - and to its power output of 640 bhp. Designers and engineers have not only focused on reworking the engine, suspension, gearbox, exhaust system, brakes and electronics, but also the interior and exterior design; improvements that retain the Murciélago LP640 positioning at the extremity of sports car performance and desirability. For those wishing to flaunt the 60° V12 heart of their Murciélago LP640, an engine hood made of transparent glass is now available. The first vehicles will be available later this year.
Since the original Murciélago’s debut at Frankfurt Motor Show in 2001, 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 within 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 side panels 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 upholstery also has a new look thanks to the lozenge-shaped stitching.
More powerful engine
The engine of the new Murciélago LP640 has undergone radical modification. The increased bore and longer stroke have boosted the displacement of the 60° V12 engine from 6.2 litres to 6.5 litres (6,496 cc). Thus the already extraordinary 580 hp engine power has now been elevated to an impressive peak of 640 hp (471 kW) at 8,000 rpm. The 12-cylinder engine reaches a maximum torque of 660 Nm at 6,000 rpm. Naturally, the Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 complies with every European and North American law governing exhaust emmissions.
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 62mph in 3.4 seconds (0.4 seconds faster than the previous model), with a top speed of over 200mph.
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 included 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 drivability 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 anti-dive 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 _" 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
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 of 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 new Murciélago LP640 also meets with even 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. 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.
