The result is a compact (4,3 m long) high performance two-seater (top speed far beyond 300 km/h) which brings sheer pleasure when driving on a race track as well as on long-distance runs, country roads and in the city.

With this development on the basis of the famous sporty Lamborghini concept high performance targets wanted to be fulfilled.

Their basic elements are:

• Middle engine with gear box mounted behind the engine
• Permanent all-wheel-drive
• Independent front and rear wishbones
• Aluminium space frame
• Low point of gravity
• Weight distribution 42% front, 58 % rear
• Two water radiators mounted on the front, one oil cooler mounted at the side
• Wheelbase 2.560 m, track front 1.622 m, track rear 1.592 m
• Total length 4.300 m, width 1.900 m, height 1.165

High value was set on the fact to abide by the right weight distribution of the Lamborghini-tradition. The chosen solution is optimal for a sportscar and provides a good traction as well as excellent braking characteristics and handling.

Also the lowered point of gravity played a decisive role in the decision of the engineers for exact this motor / gearbox arrangement.



Design

The first draft for the design of the Gallardo is from the year 2000.

For Lamborghini it was the demanding but fascinating task to cultivate the typical characteristics of a Lamborghini and combine them in a highly individual composition.

The draft based on a styling proposal by Ital Design was advanced by Lamborghini Centro Stile in terms of our uncompromising design philosophy.

The dimensions of the Gallardo, paired with Lamborghini's high performance targets give the car an athletic compactness.

The long wheelbase and the short overhangs make sure of a dynamic appearance.

The unmistakable proportions of the unique hatchback body stand for the tradition of the Countach and typify the main design elements purism, sportivity and distinctiveness of Lamborghini.

The cockpit which lies far in the front and is integrated in the body through a strongly inclined wind screen and fortified A-column, despite its complexity is determined by clear graphics and cool, streaming details which proportions and language of forms show a strong influence from aviation and therefore also stick to the tradition of Lamborghini.

The front view is destined by slit-shaped head lights and dominant air intakes.

As traditionally customary, the swinging doors are only reserved for the 12-cylinder models and therefore are not designated for the Gallardo.

The external mirrors with electrical closing system which are fitted on an innovative side part with air intakes, give the side view a dynamic optics. The flushed door handles emphasize the side air intakes and like all details contribute to an improved aerodynamic.

The backlights continue the line of the upper air intakes and phase out in an aero dynamical lip, as it can also be found on the tilting spoiler - once again a felicitous combination of function and emotion.


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