Produced since 2003, the Gallardo is currently Lamborghini’s longest-running model and is approaching the shift to an all-new generation, likely to arrive next year.
Although some reports said the Gallardo replacement, tipped to be called the Cabrera, may premiere at the Frankfurt motor show this autumn, Lamborghini said it will bring to Germany a new version of the current Gallardo, most likely the last one.
Called the Gallardo LP 570-4 Squadra Corse, it is the most extreme Gallardo ever produced, as it is based on the Gallardo Super Trofeo race car that competes in the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo.
The name leaves nothing to chance, as “Squadra Corse” means “Race Team” in Italian, hinting to the recently-founded department within Automobili Lamborghini which handles all the brand’s motorsport activities.
One might say the Gallardo LP 570-4 Squadra Corse is a street-legal racer, as it uses the same 562hp (570PS) 5.0-liter V10 engine from the Gallardo Super Trofeo racecar with no modifications. The engine is linked to a robotized e-gear six-speed transmission operated by steering wheel paddles.
The Squadra Corse also features the same carbon composite rear wing for greater aerodynamic load – more precisely three times the load of the Gallardo LP 560-4. It is fitted with the removable engine hood (also made from carbon composite) with quick-release system.
Thanks to the use of lightweight materials such as carbon fiber and aluminum, the Gallardo LP 570-4 Squadra Corse weighs 1,340 kg (2,954 lbs), or 70 kg (154 lbs) less that the Gallardo LP 560-4. This gives it a power-to-weight ratio of 2.35 kg (5.18 lbs) per horsepower, a recipe for stunning performance. The car goes from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in only 3.4 seconds and from 0 to 200 km/h (124 mph) in 10.4 seconds, while its maximum speed peaks at 320 km/h (199 mph).
To make sure its braking power matches the acceleration, the Squadra Corse features a carbon-ceramic brake system.
On the outside, the Squadra Corse comes with a decal strip along the flank displaying Italy’s flag colors, a matte black finish on the large rear wing, while the hood, front air intakes, rear diffuser and 19-inch forged wheels are painted in high-gloss black. On the inside, carbon fiber and Alcantara dominate the cabin, with Lamborghini offering standard racing bucket seats – comfort seats are optional.
By Dan Mihalascu
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