The 2006 Lamborghini Gallardo features a number of technical and cosmetic modifications on previous models. Its engine now boasts 520 bhp, as well as lowered gear ratios, allowing it to reach a top speed of 196 mph, accelerating from 0-62 mph in just 4 seconds. Equipment upgrades include the new Lamborghini Multimedia System (radio, MP3/CD player), revised interior trim colours and a clever “non-smoking” version of the car in which the cigarette lighter makes way for a 12V power socket.
New colours are also available for the exterior of the car: Verde Faunus (green), Blu Fontus (blue) and Grigio Proteus (grey). The previous colour options have also bee modified: Mira has been replaced by Arancio Leonis (orange), and Rosso Mysia (red) has been changed to a new red called Rosso Centaurus.
The new Gallardo’s optional equipment includes a TV-tuner (except in USA/Canada and Japan) and rear video camera. “Callisto” wheels and sporty setup are also available on the Gallardo MY 06 model, adding racing suspension, steering and steering wheel. A range of customisable options is also available (the “Privilege Programme”), allowing enthusiasts to purchase a truly unique vehicle.
History
When Ferruccio Lamborghini founded his now famous sports car company, he used the logo of a fighting bull on account of his birthday falling under the sign of Taurus. In honour of their founder, Lamborghini have baptised their latest super car with the name of a breed of fighting bull – the “Gallardo” (pronounced ga-yardo).
The Gallardo bull breed was engineered in the 18th century, and was named after Francisco Gallardo and his brothers who were breeders of cattle at Santa Maris in Cadiz. The tenacity of their breed in the arena brought them fame and prestige, and it is this tradition which Lamborghini are looking to emulate with the Gallardo MY 06.
Design and development
The concept behind the Gallardo MY 06 is to create a super car which stands head and shoulders above the competitors in its market sector, whilst being adaptable to every driving situation. Lamborghini have matched these two seemingly discrete aims to great success, producing a car which provides the necessary comfort and versatility without compromising on performance. The technical design specifications reflect these objectives, resulting in a compact (167.7 inches long), high-performance (top speed 190 mph +), two-seater sports car which is equally at home on the racing circuit, on the motorway, on country roads and on urban streets.
The Gallardo’s layout features the following characteristics:
mid-rear engine; gearbox mounted behind engine
permanent 4x4 system
double wishbone suspension
space frame made of lightweight aluminium
exceptionally low centre of gravity
58% rear / 42% front weight
2x front-mounted water radiators; 1x oil cooler, side-mounted
© 2006 Martin Hemmings and Ken Leonard for www.sport-cars.org
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