Car
January 21, 2015
Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2: A Track Test Drive Impression
Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2
Test Drive of Lamborghini's Only RWD Model on the Track! (1)
A test drive event for Lamborghini's entry-level model, the "LP 550-2," was held at Sodegaura Forest Raceway. It was a slightly wet day with light rain, and the test drive was conducted with instructors from the home country leading the way at a moderate pace. Nevertheless, we caught a glimpse of its modern and accessible supercar nature. Kumiko Shimizu, an OPENERS contract writer and owner of a Nissan GT-R, joins two members of our CAR category team to discuss the appeal of the Gallardo LP 550-2.
Photos by Masayuki Arakawa
Lamborghini's New Strategy to Expand Its Customer Base
Currently, the Gallardo lineup includesthe base model "LP 560-4", the "LP 570-4 Superleggera" which weighs 70kg less at 1340kg and has an engine output increased by 10ps to 570ps through revisions to the intake and exhaust systems, their respective Spyder models, and the special edition "Bicolore" based on the "LP 560-4" with a two-tone color scheme. All of these are 4WD. However, the model we tested this time was the "LP 550-2," the only 2WD in Lamborghini's production car lineup. Its engine output is limited to 550ps, and the suspension is set slightly softer than other models. Furthermore, it is available with right-hand drive, making it a strategic model introduced by Lamborghini Japan to broaden its customer appeal.
YamaguchiThis test car is unique as it's Lamborghini's only 2WD model and features right-hand drive.
ShimizuI was surprised to find a right-hand drive option for a supercar like a Lamborghini. Of course, in Japan's traffic conditions, a right-hand drive is preferable even for imported cars...
YamamotoThe UK specification is right-hand drive, so it shouldn't be that difficult. Ms. Shimizu, this is your first time driving a Lamborghini, isn't it?
Kumiko Shimizu, who participated in the test drive event
ShimizuWhen I sat in the driver's seat of a Murciélago at a showroom before, I thought the rear visibility was poor and the ride height was extremely low, making it seem difficult to drive. But after test driving the Gallardo, the rear visibility wasn't as bothersome as I expected, and it was surprisingly easy to drive. Personally, I prefer 4WD because it offers higher stability and peace of mind. However, the LP 550-2 had a nimble feel unique to 2WD, which was very enjoyable. The acceleration was also satisfying and exhilarating.
Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2
Test Drive of Lamborghini's Only RWD Model on the Track! (2)
Sufficient Torque Even at Low RPMs
YamamotoThe engine is a 5.3-liter V10, boasting a maximum output of 550ps at 8,000rpm and a peak torque of 540Nm at 6,500rpm. Older supercars often lacked torque at low revs, making them difficult to drive, but the LP 550-2 is truly a modern supercar. Despite its over 500ps output, it delivers strong torque from low RPMs, so it should be perfectly fine for city driving.
YamaguchiWhat did you think of the engine sound? I imagine it was impactful, as expected from a V10 naturally aspirated unit.
ShimizuFerraris have a high-pitched sound, but the Gallardo had a deep, heavy tone. However, the volume and quality weren't unpleasant, and I found it quite appealing. Also, with a mid-engine layout, hearing the engine sound from behind is always special. Unfortunately, during the actual test drive, the pace car kept our speed down, so I couldn't fully appreciate the engine's sound...
YamaguchiWe were mostly limited to around 4,000-5,000rpm, so a proper impression was probably impossible this time...
YamaguchiEven on the flat surface of the track, the suspension felt supple rather than stiff. When cornering, there was a moderate amount of body roll, and the rear felt planted.
YamamotoIt felt like the tires were gripping the road firmly, generating traction while the rear rolled. I really felt the inherent goodness of a mid-engine layout.
YamaguchiMs. Shimizu, from a woman's perspective, what do you think of the styling?
ShimizuThe design is one of Lamborghini's key attractions. The sharp, three-dimensional body has a very cool, supercar-like appearance. The color options include vivid colors like orange and lime green, which are likely to attract fans beyond just men, including women. Despite such bold design, the visibility and ride comfort were impressive, making it feel comfortable enough for daily use.
Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2
Test Drive of Lamborghini's Only RWD Model on the Track! (3)
What are the Gallardo's Weaknesses?
YamaguchiI believe the Gallardo, as a sports car that blends into daily life, was strongly influenced by the Honda NSX. In fact, most modern supercars, whether Ferrari or Maserati, are designed to be friendly rather than intimidating to the driver. I was also impressed by the high quality, typical of the Volkswagen Group. Despite being an Italian brand, it possesses solid German quality in terms of interior and bodywork precision.
YamamotoCombined with Lamborghini's signature sharp, wedge-like styling and striking color schemes, it's truly a happy marriage of Italian flair and German engineering.
ShimizuIndeed, that green body is strikingly impactful, unlike anything else.
YamamotoHowever, like most models in the Volkswagen Group, I must point out the paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Ferrari, leveraging F1 technology, allows for all operations, from driving modes to audio, to be controlled from the steering wheel. Once you get used to steering-wheel controls, reaching for the console becomes cumbersome. It's been my long-held wish for the Gallardo to consolidate its controls on the steering wheel as well.
ShimizuIn F1, where every fraction of a second counts, even taking your hand off the wheel can result in lost time.
YamamotoSpeaking of Lamborghini, the new flagship model "Aventador LP 700-4" announced at the Geneva Motor Show is creating quite a buzz. Would it be alright to briefly touch upon that car?
YamaguchiPlease do.
YamamotoThe Aventador uses a carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) monocoque with a torsional rigidity of 35,000Nm and is the first production car to feature pushrod suspension. I'm eager to test drive this flagship model, which embodies such technological highlights.
YamaguchiWhile the Gallardo LP 550-2 is Lamborghini's entry-level model, the Aventador is their top-tier model, so they must be completely different. The development staff from the home country who were here for the test drive proudly stated, "The Aventador is a flagship model incorporating all the latest technologies, giving us a ten-year advantage over our rivals."
YamamotoIncidentally, their repair techniques for carbon bodies are also thorough; apparently, repairs after an accident can be completed in about four hours. So, we should imagine that when driving the Gallardo... (laughs).
YamaguchiThe Gallardo is a supercar that fits into daily life, but the Aventador, with its 2,260mm width, will certainly require careful selection of where to drive it.
Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2
Test Drive of Lamborghini's Only RWD Model on the Track! (4)
The Gallardo's Appeal: Usable Even in Daily Life
YamaguchiThe LP 550-2 weighs 1,380kg, which is remarkably light for a modern car that tends to gain weight with safety and comfort features. For comparison, the Honda NSX, praised for its lightness with an all-aluminum body, weighed 1,390kg in its standard configuration with a 3.0-liter V6 engine and 4-speed automatic transmission. It's almost the same as the Gallardo. This is where technology truly shines.
ShimizuI certainly felt the results of the latest technology. As we discussed, it's very easy to handle. Moreover, even when I increased the speed a bit, there were no signs of instability.
YamamotoIndeed. For example, the 911 up to the 964, with its torsion bar rear suspension, always felt a bit precarious. Even on slightly wet roads, it felt like it could spin out. That used to be the fate of 2WD super sports cars, but the Gallardo LP 550-2 gives no such impression. It can be said to be a car that can be driven without difficulty on a daily basis.
YamaguchiOne of the charms of the LP 550-2 is that it allows people who don't necessarily want to drive at extreme speeds to enjoy the performance of a supercar. In that sense, its target audience is broad, from those who want to drive on a track like today to those who simply want to savor the taste of an Italian supercar. The price is 24,081,750 yen, placing it in a similar price range to the Porsche 911 Turbo S.
YamamotoMost people probably use the 911 as a coupe rather than a sports or supercar, don't you think?
YamaguchiThat's true. Many 911 owners previously drove sedans. Considering its body size and packaging, the 911 is more conventional, but the Gallardo LP 550-2 also offers a blend of daily usability, performance, and undeniable Lamborghini character.
ShimizuI even thought about making it my own car someday.
Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2
Body Dimensions | Length 4,345 x Width 1,900 x Height 1,165mm
Wheelbase | 2,560mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,380kg
Engine | 5.3-liter V10 engine
Maximum Output | 550ps/8,000rpm
Maximum Torque | 540Nm/6,500rpm
Transmission | Robotized sequential e-gear system
Fuel Consumption | 13.3L/100km
CO2 Emissions | 315g/km
Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive
Price | 24,081,750 yen