LAMBORGHINI GALLARDO LP550-2 Valentino Balboni |
CAR / NEWS
April 16, 2015

LAMBORGHINI GALLARDO LP550-2 Valentino Balboni |


LAMBORGHINI GALLARDO LP550-2 Valentino Balboni
Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni


A Tribute to the Legendary Test Driver


Lamborghini has unveiled the Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni, a limited edition model produced in just 250 units.


Text by Giraffe




Lamborghini's Only Rear-Wheel Drive



Valentino Balboni is the name of a legendary test driver who was discovered by Ferruccio Lamborghini, the founder of Lamborghini. He was involved in testing from the Lamborghini Miura in the 1960s to the current Gallardo and Murciélago, not only that, but he also steered most of the production cars and performed the final checks before they were delivered to customers.

This Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni has been created to honor Balboni's great achievements.

Its most significant feature, born from the pursuit of driving pleasure, is that it has become the only rear-wheel-drive model in the current Lamborghini lineup. Thanks to its powerful V10 engine, it is possible to easily initiate drifts while tracing the driver's intended line (of course, safety is also carefully considered, and the assistant systems have been uniquely tuned for the Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni).

Furthermore, to enhance driving dynamics, adjustments have been made to the springs, dampers, stabilizers, and even the tires, demonstrating a considerable level of dedication.





Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni|LAMBORGHINI GALLARDO LP550-2 Valentino Balboni<br />

Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni|LAMBORGHINI GALLARDO LP550-2 Valentino Balboni<br />


Top Speed 320 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 3.9 Seconds



The engine is the same 5.2-liter V10 found in the Gallardo, producing a maximum output of 550 hp and a peak torque of 540 Nm. It boasts a top speed of 320 km/h and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds.

This dedication is also evident in the design. The white and gold stripe, running from the front panel, roof, and engine cover to the rear spoiler, is reminiscent of 1970s sports cars. This model is available in eight body colors, with brake calipers offered in black, orange, or yellow depending on the body color.

This color combination is also reflected in the interior. The base color is black, but the driver's and passenger seats feature white stripes, and the entire center console is finished in 'Polar' white leather. This white accent provides a striking contrast within the interior.

A fusion of strong character and exceptional performance. A fitting tribute to the legendary test driver who shaped Lamborghini.



BRAND HISTORY
As Italy's premier sports car manufacturer, Lamborghini is often compared to Ferrari. This is entirely natural, as Lamborghini's very origin lies in the ambition to surpass Ferrari.

Ferruccio Lamborghini founded Automobili Lamborghini in 1963, at the age of 47. After amassing wealth through tractors and air conditioning post-World War II, Ferruccio owned numerous sports cars but found none that truly satisfied him. Ferrari was no exception. The famous anecdote tells of how, after complaining to Enzo Ferrari one day, he was told, "You should just stick to driving tractors." This spurred him to launch his own brand with the goal of defeating Ferrari.

Lamborghini immediately presented the advanced V12-powered and beautifully bodied "350GTV" at the 1963 Turin Motor Show, followed by the production version "350GT" the next year. Subsequently, they released iconic models like the "Miura" and "Countach." However, due to setbacks in the tractor business and the impact of the oil crisis, the sports car company bearing his name eventually changed hands.

Lamborghini continued to undergo several ownership changes. However, since coming under the umbrella of Audi in 1998, the company has experienced steady growth. Currently, the lineup includes the V12-powered "Murciélago" and the V10 "Gallardo."