The Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 Coupé

The new version of this highly successful super-sports car features considerable
innovations in terms of body design and mechanics. And also with a new name:
Murciélago LP640, which refers to its engine position - longitudinale posteriore -
and to its power of 640 hp. Designers and engineers have not only focused on
reworking the engine, suspensions, gearbox, exhaust system, brakes and
electronics, but also the interior and exterior design; improvements that make the
Murciélago LP640 the most extreme and fastest sports car in its class, placing it at
the very top.

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.

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 PS (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 (62 mph) 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 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 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.

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 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.

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 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.

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 Ad Personam 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.