Iranian Company Reverse-Engineers Lamborghini Murciélago, Uses A Hyundai V6

The Lamborghini Murciélago went out of production in 2010, but it’s making a bizarre comeback in the most unlikely of places, namely Iran.

According to Russia Today, an Iranian company has unveiled a “reverse-engineered” version of the Murciélago SV in Tabriz. While the report doesn’t go into details, Stnews talked to Massoud Moradi who was responsible for bringing the replica to life.

According to Moradi, the project began four years ago as he and his team started working to bring the Murciélago back to life. While some of the translations are a bit rough, it appears the car’s chassis is based on the one developed by Lamborghini and was recreated using the automaker’s original data.  As a result, Moradi said the team didn’t spend “any time planning or testing the car.”

That doesn’t sound too reassuring nor does Moradi’s admission that the car’s handling isn’t comparable to the original Murciélago. Moradi also stated a “speed test was not done on this car” due to a “lack of proper infrastructure.”

While the model might not be up to Lamborghini standards, it certainly does look like a Murciélago. Moradi said the replica is the same size as the original model and uses an assortment of carbon fiber and composite components. However, it reportedly doesn’t share any parts with the original car.

That’s certainly true in the engine compartment as the replica trades Lamborghini’s V12 for a Hyundai-sourced 3.8-liter Lambda V6. There’s no word on performance specifications, but Moradi reportedly said the car can “easily reach” speeds in excess of 174 mph (280 km/h).

While the Hyundai-sourced powertrain isn’t exactly exotic, that’s potentially a good thing. As Moradi explained, the car is easily serviceable and most repair shops should be able to work on the model.

Moradi also hinted that additional engines could be offered in future as there’s plenty of room for larger powertrains. He didn’t go into details, but suggested new iterations of the car could have V8 or V10 engines.

Little else is known about the replica, but Moradi said the company could build 50 – 100 units annually if there is enough demand.

Can’t help but wonder what Lamborghini execs feel about this and, assuming they didn’t grant permission, if they will legally contest this Iranian knock-off.