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 upholstery also has a new look thanks to the
lozenge-shaped stitching.
More powerful engine
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
every European and North American law governing exhaust fumes.
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 sixratio 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 sixpiston 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 (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.
[source: lamborghini.com]
