Two years after the launch of the Coupé version of the Gallardo, Automobili Lamborghini presented the Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show. This model is not merely an open-top version of the Coupé; it is a completely new creation with an attractive design and a unique system for opening and closing the fabric roof, utilizing the engine compartment for storage.
Design and Innovation
The Lamborghini Centro Stile and engineers from the Research and Development team worked closely to develop the new design, bringing clean and sharp lines to the road. The original design vision for the Gallardo was conceived in 2000, and this vision continues with the Spyder. The dimensions of the Gallardo, combined with its competitive performance targets, ensure the car has an athletic compactness. The long wheelbase complemented by short overhangs dynamizes its appearance. The Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder features unique mono-volume proportions, integrating Lamborghini’s design attributes of purism, athleticism, and sharpness.
The cab-forward cockpit is integrated into the body by a strongly-slanted front screen and tensed pillars. The complex surfacing is intersected by crisp graphics and detailing oriented towards optimum cooling, evoking a strong aeronautical influence in its proportions and formal language.
Roof Mechanism
The roof system of the Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder is based on an electronic control system with electrohydraulic actuators. Key elements include a black fabric hood, an electronic control system integrated into the car’s CAN-BUS network, an electric pump, a carbon fiber engine bonnet that also functions as a hood cover, six hydraulic cylinders, two electric actuators, and an electric motor to raise and lower the rear window. The roof operation is simple, taking just over 20 seconds, and is controlled by two push-buttons on the dashboard. The rear screen moves automatically during the roof’s operation, returning to the raised position by default. The driver can also choose to lower the screen with the roof raised. A “service function” allows access to the engine.
Great care has been taken in the structural design of the Gallardo Spyder, ensuring compliance with all relevant safety standards. The space frame has been reinforced, and the A pillars have been strengthened with an automatic Roll Over protection system integrated with the airbag system. These solutions position Lamborghini at the forefront of open-top car design, presenting a true Spyder characterized by pure design.
Engine and Performance
The Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder features significant modifications to the original engine and transmission from the Coupé. The 10-cylinder 4961 cc engine now develops 520 hp (382 kW) at 8,000 rpm. The six-speed gearbox has lower ratios, creating more dynamic performance. The steering is more direct and precise, and the suspension has been recalibrated. The Gallardo Spyder benefits from aluminum bodywork and permanent four-wheel drive. It reaches a top speed of 314 km/h with the roof up and 307 km/h with the roof down, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds.
Equipment and Customization
Standard equipment includes a power steering fluid cooler for sports use, automatic door locking at speeds over 15 km/h, and the Lamborghini Multimedia System. New body colors are available, including Celeste Phoebe (light blue) and Verde Picus (green), as well as new leather interior colors like Marrone Janus (brown) and Bianco Polar (white). Optional equipment includes a rear spoiler video camera, color/perforated leather combinations, contrast color stitching, and various customization packages.
The Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder is a testament to Lamborghini’s dedication to blending innovative design with high performance, creating a car that is as exhilarating to drive as it is beautiful to behold.
Engine and Performance Highlights
- Engine: 10-cylinder, 4961 cc
- Power: 520 hp (382 kW) at 8,000 rpm
- Transmission: Six-speed gearbox with lower ratios
- 1st gear: 27% lower
- 2nd gear: 13% lower
- 3rd, 4th, 5th gears: 6% lower
- 6th gear: 3.5% lower
- Top Speed:
- Roof up: 314 km/h
- Roof down: 307 km/h
- Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds
- Body: Aluminum bodywork
- Drive: Permanent four-wheel drive
