Lamborghini Aventador SVJ Roadster Bows With 770 HP, 217+ MPH Top Speed

The Geneva Motor Show is shaping up to be a showcase of high-performance drop tops as Lamborghini has introduced the Aventador SVJ Roadster, hours after the Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster made its debut.

While the Mercedes uses a familiar twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, the Aventador SVJ Roadster has a massive 6.5-liter V12 engine that develops 759 hp (566 kW / 770 PS) and 531 lb-ft (720 Nm) of torque. It is connected to a seven-speed ISR transmission and an all-wheel drive system.

This setup enables the SVJ to rocket from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 2.9 seconds and 0-124 mph (0-200 km/h) in 8.8 seconds. Given enough room, the roadster will eventually hit a top speed in excess of 217 mph (350 km/h).

The performance specifications are virtually identical to the coupe, but the roadster is a tad slower from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h). This is likely due to the fact that the roadster weighs 110 lbs (50 kg) more than the coupe.

Lamborghini didn’t talk much about the weight gain, but confirmed the Aventador SVJ Roadster has a carbon fiber roof which consists of two separate panels that each weigh 13.2 lbs (6 kg). The panels can be removed via quick-release levers and then stored under the front hood.

To ensure the cabin remains comfortable with the roof removed, there’s a small rear window which can be raised or lowered at the press of a button. The cabin also features a digital instrument cluster, GPS navigation and Apple CarPlay compatibility.

Like the coupe, the Aventador SVJ Roadster has an active aerodynamics system which varies the “aero load to achieve high downforce or low drag.” This is done by adjusting the position of the front splitter and carbon fiber rear wing.

The system is highly advanced and can even be used to improve cornering. As Lamborghini explained, the right or left side of the wing can be adjusted to increase downforce and traction on a desired wheel.

The active aero tech is just part of the package as the Aventador SVJ Roadster also has rear wheel steering, carbon ceramic brakes and a magneto rheological suspension with anti-roll bars that are 50% stiffer than those used on the Aventador SV Roadster.

Production will be limited to 800 units and the first deliveries are slated to begin this summer. Pricing starts at $573,966 in the United States, while European customers will need to shell out €387,007 or £323,323.

*Article updated with live images from Geneva