BMW X1

BMW X1

MUNICH : JULY 2, 2009 - With its agile, versatile and modern character, the BMW X1 guarantees a new driving experience in the premium compact segment. It expands and enhances the range of BMW X models by yet another innovative vehicle concept.

Through its body design the BMW X1 demonstrates self-confident elegance, a versatile and sporting character, as well as spontaneous agility. For the first time the features and characteristics of a BMW X model are carried over in modern style into a unique vehicle in the premium compact segment.

The interior of the BMW X1 is characterised by clear function and trendsetting, modern style. The driver orientation so typical of BMW is additionally accentuated by the forward-pushing lines within the cockpit area. Sophisticated materials and natural colours accentuate the youthful and dynamic flair of the vehicle.

The elevated seating position, a generous feeling of space, the wide range of storage options and the variable interior offer ideal conditions for enjoying the BMW X1 both in an urban environment and beyond, with agility, spontaneity and versatility of the highest calibre. Three
full-sized seats at the rear offer generous space and freedom of movement. The rear-seat backrest is adjustable for angle and folds down in a 40/20/20 split. Luggage compartment capacity may be increased from 420 litres/14.7 cu ft to a maximum of 1,350 litres/47.3 cu ft. An electrically operated Panorama glass roof is available as an option.

Modern drivetrain technology gives the BMW X1 superior performance and supreme efficiency all in one. Depending on the model variant, the driver benefits from powerful, economical and low-emission gasoline and diesel engines, BMW's intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology, as well as a wide range of BMW EfficientDynamics features including Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start Stop, and a gearshift point indicator. The BMW X1 sDrive18d with rear-wheel drive and average fuel consumption to the EU standard of 5.2 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 54.3 mpg imp) and a CO₂ rating of 136 grams/ kilometre offers the highest standard of efficiency all round.

The cutting-edge suspension technology featured in the BMW X1 comprises a double-joint thrust bar or, respectively, an aluminium double-joint tiebar axle at the front and a five-arm rear axle in lightweight steel, high-precision power steering, high-performance brakes, Dynamic Stability Control including Dynamic Traction Control and, as an option, Performance Control acting on the brakes for particularly dynamic driving behaviour.

The BMW X1 features a special body structure designed from the outset for maximum occupant safety. Standard features include three-point inertia-reel seat belts all round, frontal and side airbags as well as head airbags at the side, adaptive Brake Lights and daytime driving lights. Xenon headlights, Adaptive Headlights and a High-Beam Assistant are all available as an option.

In conjunction with the optional Business and Professional navigation systems, the BMW X1 is equipped with the latest generation of BMW iDrive including a Controller and direct selection buttons on the centre console, a Control Display harmoniously integrated in the instrument panel, and favourite buttons beneath the control panel for the air conditioning featured as standard. The most sophisticated HiFi systems are available as an alternative to the audio system fitted as standard and the AUX-In port likewise featured as standard may be supplemented by a USB interface. Numerous driver assistance systems and the wide range of BMW ConnectedDrive services are also available.

Engine variants:

BMW X1 xDrive28i:

• Straight-six gasoline engine with composite magnesium/aluminium crankcase, VALVETRONIC and dual-VANOS
  
• Capacity: 2,996 cc, max output: 190 kW/258 hp at 6,600 rpm
  
• Max torque: 310 Nm/228lb-ft from 2,600 -- 3,000 rpm
  
• Acceleration 0--100 km/h: 6.8 sec
  
• Top speed: 205 km/h (127 mph)
  
• (230 km/h or 143 mph with optional high-speed set-up)
  
• Average fuel consumption to the EU standard: 9.4 ltr/100 kilometres (equal to 30.0 mpg imp)
  
• CO₂ emissions to the EU standard: 219 g/km
  
• Emission standard: EU5.

BMW X1 xDrive23d:

• Four-cylinder diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase,
  
• BMW TwinPower Turbo and common rail direct fuel injection
  
• Capacity: 1,995 cc, max output: 150 kW/204 hp at 4,400 rpm
  
• Max torque: 400 Nm/295 lb-ft from 2,000 -- 2,250 rpm
  
• Acceleration 0--100 km/h: 7.3 sec
  
• Top speed: 205 km/h (127 mph)
  
• (223 km/h or 138 mph with optional high-speed set-up)
  
• Average fuel consumption to the EU standard: 6.3 ltr/100 kilometres
  
• (equal to 44.8 mpg imp)
  
• CO₂ emissions to the EU standard: 167 g/km
  
• Emission standard: EU5.

BMW X1 xDrive20d:

• Four-cylinder diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase, turbocharger with variable intake geometry and common-rail direct fuel injection
  
• Capacity: 1,995 cc, max output: 130 kW/177 hp at 4,000 rpm
  
• Max torque: 350 Nm/258 lb-ft from 1,750 -- 3,000 rpm
  
• Acceleration 0--100 km/h: 8.4 sec
  
• Top speed: 205 km/h (127 mph)
  
• (213 km/h or 132 mph with optional high-speed set-up)
  
• Average fuel consumption to the EU standard: 5.8 ltr/100 kilometres
  
• (equal to 51.4 mpg imp)
  
• CO₂ emissions to the EU standard: 153 g/km
  
• Emission standard: EU5

BMW X1 sDrive20d:

• Four-cylinder diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase, turbocharger with variable intake geometry and common-rail direct fuel injection
  
• Capacity: 1,995 cc, max output: 130 kW/177 hp at 4,000 rpm
  
• Max torque: 350 Nm/258 lb-ft from 1,750 -- 3,000 rpm
  
• Acceleration 0--100 km/h: 8.1 sec
  
• Top speed: 205 km/h (127 mph)
  
• (218 km/h or 135 mph with optional high-speed set-up)
  
• Average fuel consumption to the EU standard: 5.3 ltr/100 kilometres
  
• (equal to 53.3 mpg imp) CO₂ emissions to the EU standard: 139 g/km
  
• Emission standard: EU5.

BMW X1 xDrive18d:

• Four-cylinder diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase, turbocharger with variable intake geometry and common-rail direct fuel injection
  
• Capacity: 1,995 cc, max output: 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm
  
• Max torque: 320 Nm/236 lb-ft from 1,750 -- 3,000 rpm
  
• Acceleration 0--100 km/h: 10.1 sec
  
• Top speed: 195 km/h (121 mph)
  
• Average fuel consumption to the EU standard: 5.7 ltr/100 kilometres
  
• CO₂ emissions to the EU standard: 150 g/km
  
• Emission standard: EU5.

BMW X1 sDrive18d:

• Four-cylinder diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase, turbocharger with variable intake geometry and common-rail direct fuel injection
  
• Capacity: 1,995 cc, max output: 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm
  
• Max torque: 320 Nm/236 lb-ft from 1,750 -- 3,000 rpm
  
• Acceleration 0--100 km/h: 9.6 sec
  
• Top speed: 200 km/h (124 mph)
  
• Average fuel consumption to the EU standard: 5.2 ltr/100 kilometres
  
• (equal to 54.3 mpg imp)
  
• CO₂ emissions to the EU standard: 136 g/km
  
• Emission standard: EU5.

Images : New BMW X1

[Source : BMW]

Porsche 911 SPR1 T80 by Sportec - 858bhp to All Four Wheels

Porsche 911 SPR1 T80 by Sportec

Swiss automotive tuner SPORTEC, famed for its ultra high performance SPR1 range of 997 based supercars, is proud to announce the latest addition to its range, the T80. Conceived, designed and constructed in Switzerland by SPORTEC's technical team, the new version of the SPR1 offers unrivalled supercar performance and exclusivity.


The T80 builds upon the performance of the SPR1 range by increasing the power of its bi-turbo, 3.6-litre, 24-valve, flat six T80M engine to a staggering 858 bhp, which, when combined with the benefits of permanent four wheel drive, creates a benchmark blend of poise and performance.

This means that each of the SPR1 T80's four wheels channels 214.5 bhp to the tarmac, akin to having a VW Golf GTi powering each tyre, yet the SPR1's bi-turbo engine remains fully Euro IV emissions compliant.

The SPORTEC SPR1 T80 enjoys supercar performance, taking a mere 3.0 seconds to hit 62mph (100kmh,) with 186mph (300kmh) appearing in just 18.9 seconds. A top speed of more than 236mph has been recorded at Nardo, Italy.

Technically, the SPORTEC SPR1 T80 boasts highlights including titanium connecting rods, a flat carbon fibre under floor, active suspension and F1 style ceramic brake discs.

The use of composite (carbon / Kevlar) body panels, forged alloy wheels, an integrated safety cage and ceramic brake discs allows the SPR1 to be lighter, safer and more dynamic than other cars in its class.

Available in a choice of colours, the SPR1 T80 boasts a number of exclusive SPORTEC styling and interior touches, including lightweight 20 inch forged alloy wheels, a carbon fibre rear wing and leather / alcantara interior.

Brackley based Automotive Performance Services (APS) is the UK concession for SPORTEC. The SPR1 T80 will be making its British debut at the prestigious Salon Prive' show at London's Hurlingham club between 22nd-24th July.

SPORTEC SPR1 T80 Technical Data

Overview

• Engine type Six cylinder boxer engine
  
• Displacement 3600cc
  
• Bore/stroke 100 x 76.4mm
  
• Compression ratio 9.0:1
  
• Power output 858bhp @ 8200rpm
  
• Torque output 642lb.ft @ 4800rpm
  
• Engine management Bosch ME 7.8 SPORTEC MFC G4.0
  
• Fuel quality 98 RON unleaded
  
• Idle speed 820rpm
  
• Max engine speed:
  
• 1st gear 8700rpm
  
• 2nd-5th gear 8500rpm
• 6th gear 8200rpm
  
• Emissions standard Euro IV

Transmission

• Six-speed manual, four wheel drive
  
• Gear ratios:
  
• 1st 3.82
• 2nd 2.05
• 3rd 1.41
• 4th 1.12
• 5th 0.9
• 6th 0.75


• Reverse gear 2.86
  
• Final drive ratio 3.44
  
• Speed at 1000rpm in 6th gear 30.76mph
  
• Clutch disc diameter 240mm

Chassis

• Front axle Light alloy links with McPherson struts, uniball top mounts
  
• Rear axle Multi link suspension, uniball top mounts
  
• Steering Electric power steering
  
• Steering ratio 1:16.9
  
• Steering from lock to lock 2.98
  
• Brakes Front: 8 piston light alloy calliper
  
• Rear: 4 piston light alloy calliper
  
• Brake discs Front: Cross drilled and ventilated ceramic 380 x 34mm discs
  
• Rear: Cross drilled and ventilated ceramic 322 x 28mm discs
  
• Wheels Front: 9J x 20 inch 30mm offset
  
• Rear: 12.5J x 20 inch 40mm offset
  
• Tyres Front: 255/30 R20 92Y XL
  
• Rear: 345/25 R20 100Y

Weights

• Kerb weight (DIN)* 1345 KG
  
• Front / rear weight distribution 40/60
  
• Depending on equipment

Dimensions

• Length 4467mm
  
• Width 1878mm
  
• Height 1275mm
  
• Wheelbase 2350mm
  
• Track front: 1550mm
  
• Rear: 1564mm
  
• Fuel capacity 64 litres

Performance

• Maximum speed Over 236mph (380kmh)
  
• Acceleration:


• 0-100kmh (62 mph) 3.0 seconds
• 0-200kmh (124mph) 8.6 seconds
• 0-300kmh (186mph) 18.9 seconds


• Power to weight ratio 637 bhp per ton
  
• Bhp per litre 238
  

[Source : SPORTEC]

Alfa Romeo Celebrates its 99th Birthday at Goodwood

Alfa Romeo 8C Spider

A year shy of the Italian sporting marque’s 100th birthday, Alfa Romeo will be preparing for next year’s Centenary with an historic hill climb by the first 8C Spider production car to be seen on the move in Britain, at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.


A firm favourite at last year’s British Motor Show, the Alfa 8C Spider – based on the 4.7litre V8 Alfa 8C Competizione coupe – will be joined on the hill by iconic motor racing cars from Alfa Romeo’s historic museum collection in Arese, Italy.

Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 CM

These include the 1924 P2 Gran Premio which won the first World Championship in 1925 driven by Gastone Brilli-Peri; the 8C 2300 tipo Le Mans which was purchased by Sir Henry Birkin in 1931; the 6C 3000 CM driven to second place by Juan Manuel Fangio in the 1953 Mille Miglia and the 33 TT 12 which brought the 1975 World Manufacturer’s title to Alfa Romeo.

Two Alfa Romeo concept cars have also been entered in the Cartier Style et Luxe in the “Serious Wedge – Studies in Angular Sports Car Design 1965-1980” category, both of which were designed by Bertone.

1968 Alfa Romeo Carabo concept

The 1968 Alfa Carabo concept marks a revolutionary stage in supercar design, with its hydropneumatic-powered gull-wing doors and multi-coloured one way glass windows. Yet another demonstration of Bertone’s experimental forward thinking design is the 1978 Najavo, which represents a concerted effort for a new aerodynamics focussed direction in sporty coupe design.

The Alfa Romeo stand will feature both Alfa 8C Spider and Competizione supercars, as well as the new sporty compact MiTo, Spider, Brera S and 159.

Alfa Romeo is a proud sponsor of the 2009 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

[Source : ALFA]

Fastest Jaguar ever at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2009

Jaguar XFR Prototype

The fastest Jaguar ever will make its UK debut later this week at the famous Goodwood Festival of Speed. The Jaguar's XFR Prototype made its record-breaking run at the legendary Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah last November, reaching a stunning top speed of 225.675mph.


The XFR Prototype, which will be driven by Rocketsports Racing owner, Paul Gentilozzi, the man behind the wheel at Bonneville, appears in Goodwood's 'First Glance' category. A one-off Jaguar XKR will join the 'Supercar run', driven by Mike Cross, Jaguar's Chief Engineer of Vehicle Integrity.

Mike O'Driscoll, Managing Director, Jaguar Cars, said: "The essence of the Festival is speed, making it the perfect venue for fielding Jaguar's fastest car ever – the record-breaking XFR Prototype.

Jaguar XKR Goodwood Special

"The XKR 'Goodwood Special' has been developed as a one-off to explore the harder side of the XKR's character and allow our engineering team to explore some performance boundaries. The Festival of Speed gives us the opportunity to have fun in a high performance car without all the practical and legal requirements of driving on the road getting in the way!

"These stunning modern Jaguars will be accompanied by a terrific selection of our 'fastest' and most significant historic vehicles."

In keeping with this year's endurance theme, Jaguar's illustrious heritage will be represented on 'The Hill' in the form of Le Mans winners – the D-type and the C-type. Jaguar will also field the unique XJ13 a car designed for endurance racing in the 1960s but which never competed – yet is still considered by many to be one of the most beautiful racing cars of all time.

Long Nose D-TYPE returns to The Hill
The 1957 Le Mans winning long-nose D-type will roar its way up the hallowed hill climb once again. Duncan Hamilton won the Reims 12-hour race in this car in 1956 along with Ivor Bueb and that same year, Mike Hawthorn entered the 1956 24-hour race at Le Mans with Bueb, finishing sixth. Hawthorn and Bueb drove this car again in 1957 at Sebring, finishing third.

First victory for Jaguar at Le Mans 24-hour race – Jaguar C-TYPE
The C-type brought Jaguar its first victory in the Le Mans 24-hour race. Once the XK120 had finished twelfth in the 1950 Le Mans, demonstrating its abilities in racing, it was clear Jaguar had the makings of a world-beater spurring on chief engineer William Heynes to create a competition version for Le Mans – the C-type.

The only one in the world – Jaguar XJ13
The XJ13 is one of the most beautiful racing cars of all time, thanks to the extraordinary work of aerodynamicist Malcolm Sayer. Although the XJ13 was built as a potential Le Mans contender, it never competed in a race due to various business reasons but the potential of this unique 502bhp, 5-litre V12 engine was never doubted.

Bonneville XFR
Running with minor aerodynamic and safety modifications to meet the requirements for a Bonneville run, the 225mph top speed was achieved with additional horsepower liberated by a remapped ECU, a modified air intake and exhaust system and revised supercharger settings. No internal engine components were changed and the six-speed automatic transmission was standard, including the gear ratios. Paul's link with Jaguar comes from his success with the XKR in the American Trans Am Series – he has achieved five series victories between 2001 and 2006.

Goodwood Special XKR
As well as performance enhancements and a louder exhaust, this one-off XKR, based on a MY10 vehicle, features 21-inch wheels and a lowered ride-height. The exterior also stands out with a unique Lime Green paint scheme and XKR exterior graphic along with satin graphite detailing to the front grilles, headlights, door mirrors, side window surrounds, rear signature blade and bonnet louvres.

Images : Jaguar XKR Goodwood Special

[Source : JAGUAR]

The Passat CC Enchants The World With Its Style

Volkswagen Passat CC/CC Individual

WOLFSBURG : July 01, 2009 - International panels of design experts have chosen their winners and one Volkswagen model has made an exceptional impression: the Passat CC. Last night in Essen, Germany, Volkswagen's four-door coupé was presented with the "red dot Design Award 2009 - Best of the Best", once again highlighting Volkswagen's first-class and attractive design concept. The elegant model has also sparked excitement down under in Australia, a statement backed-up by the fact that it has recently won the "Australian International Design Award".


Last night the Aalto Theater in Essen provided the setting for a wonderful prize ceremony during which Martin Kropp, designer at Exterior Design Studio 1, accepted the "red dot Design Award" for Volkswagen. The "red dot Design Award" is one of today's most coveted awards that a designer can win for a creative product. The prize has been awarded every year since 2000.

In March, the Passat CC was awarded the prestigious "iF Product Design Award 2009" in Hanover. At the end of May the coupé also swept the board down under where it won the renowned "Australian International Design Award" in the "Automotive and Transport" category.

[Source : VOLKSWAGEN]

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles builds one millionth T5

One millionth Volkswagen Transporter-T5

HANOVER, Germany : June 30, 2009 - Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles produced the one millionth vehicle of the T5 series today at the Hanover plant. The vehicle is a Transporter Van 1.9 l TDI 62 kW in tornado red. "The T5 is and remains the number one in its segment for new registrations in Europe and Germany", emphasised Stephan Schaller, CEO of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles during the celebrations at the Hanover plant. "One million T5s – that means one million customers towards whom we have a particular responsibility. This number is, furthermore, the product of all employees at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles: in Production, but also in Development and Procurement, in Quality Assurance, in Sales and everywhere in the brand and in our dealerships", said Schaller.

Heinrich Söfjer, chairman of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles works council, also focused on the particular commitment of the employees: "The colleagues have once again been successful with the T5 in building a vehicle where quality is assured! On the one hand this increases the image of reliability for our T5 with the customers and on the other hand we have been able to further our market leadership both in good times and bad. With this anniversary, the T5 has made its contribution towards making Hanover the location for light goods and leisure vehicles yesterday, today and tomorrow."

Last year alone Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles delivered approximately 178,000 T5s to customers. Alongside Germany, the most important markets in Europe include Great Britain, The Netherlands and Austria.

The success story of the current series began with the start of production on 3rd March 2003. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles builds the T5 in the plants at Hanover and Poznań. The closed vehicle versions are built in Hanover and the open construction versions, dropside and double cabin, are built in Poznań. The T5 series is made up of the Transporter, Caravelle, Multivan and California models. Each individual model is made up of a scope of individual model variants. Numerous awards and first prizes from national and international motoring magazines demonstrate the popularity of the T5 from the beginning. Every year the T5 collects prizes in its segment: "Van of the Year", "Transporter of the Year"(2003), "International Van of the Year" (2004), "Car of the Year" (auto motor und sport 2004 – 2009), "Four-wheel vehicle of the Year" (Auto Bild Allrad 2005 – 2009), "Touring vehicle of the Year (promobil, 2009) and finally "Classic vehicle of the future" (Motor Klassik, 2007).

The T5 is also the first choice for trade, service providers, workmen, local and regional authorities, ministries and private customers for innumerable transport and mobility requirements. Whether it be a van, dropside, double cab, Kombi or Caravelle, Multivan and California – every customer requirement is fulfilled. The T5 is delivered with a long and short wheelbase and with right or left-hand drive. If one includes all of the individual engines, a total of 460 basic variants of the T5 are produced as standard in Hanover alone. The production line builds a model with a short wheelbase followed by one with a long wheelbase, a van is followed by a Kombi with one or two side windows. "This indicates that we can listen to the requirements of the customer, our motto being: build a vehicle to suit a need", says Schaller.

The T5 is in full swing. One million vehicles produced is the incentive to beat the approximately 1.7 million predecessor model T4s that were built in Hanover.

In order to underline the particular relationship of the production location to the Hanover region, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will, upon the occasion of this production jubilee, donate a T5 Caravelle to a family selected by the "A heart for children" campaign.

[Source : NEWSPRESS]

OETTINGER GTI 6 – The Wolf in Golf’s clothing

OETTINGER GTI VI

FRIEDRICHSDORF, Germany : June 29, 2009 - When the engineers at OETTINGER lay their hands on a manufacturers sports version, then one can have high expectations. And the GTI is traditionally for OETTINGER an especially passionate project – a piece of company history lies behind the basic concept of the sporty compact vehicle: As creator of the 16 Valve technology OETTINGER made the first GTI possible over 30 years ago.


With a skilful modification of the motor management, the team from Hessen help the latest GTI version, with manual and DSG transmission, to climb from 155 kW (210 hp DIN) to 184 kW (250 hp DIN) and allow the Speedo needle to charge round to 250 km/h (155 mph). This significant increase in power together with the strengthened torque of 360 Nm / 250 lb/ft (standard 280 Nm / 206 lb/ft) allows the OETTINGER GTI to accelerate to 100 km/h (62 mph) in only 6.3 seconds (standard 6.9 sec.).

The performance enhancement via the OBD port is available immediately from the OETTINGER performance centres or directly from OETTINGER for 1,390.00 Euro. Further development stages for the 2.0 l engine to wide over 300 hp (DIN) as well as many other technical accessories will be available during the summer.

OETTINGER	SERIE
max. power: 184 kW (250 bhp) @ 5900 rpm	max. power: 155 kW (210 bhp) @ 5300 - 6200 rpm
max. torque: 265 lb ft (360 Nm) @ 2400 rpm	max. torque: 206 lb ft (280 Nm) @ 1700 - 5200 rpm
0 - 100 km/h: approx. 6,3 sec	0 - 100 km/h: approx. 6,9 sec
max. speed: approx. 248 km/h (155 mph)	max. speed: approx. 240 km/h (150 mph)

[Source : OETTINGER]

New Ford Ranger supports Goodwood Festival of Speed

New Ford Ranger at Goodwood

BRENTWOOD, Essex : June 30, 2009 – Ford will supply the new Ford Ranger pick-up as a support vehicle at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

A true off-roader with "tough-truck" capability and seating for up to five make the new Ford Ranger the perfect choice for the team responsible for event support. The rugged tasks set for the team meant that the Ranger's class-leading 3,000kg braked trailer load capacity was particularly helpful.

Christopher Salmon, motor sport events manager for Goodwood, said: "The Ranger's towing capability, load space and real agility off-road make it the ideal choice for our location and set-up. It really makes a difference to the event team to have the right support vehicle at the Festival."

Festival goers will be among the first in the country to see the new Ford Ranger before it goes on sale in September. The event team will be using six vehicles, including double and super-cab Thunder derivatives, and they will be operating throughout the event.

[Source : FORD]

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni – Driving fun with absolute precision

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni

He has long been revered as one of the many legends surrounding the world’s most uncompromising sports car brand – Valentino Balboni, a remarkable test driver with his own personal cult status. Automobili Lamborghini now presents a model in his honour and bearing his name – the Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni.


The latest version of the Gallardo, Lamborghini’s most successful model of all time - overall, more than 9,000 units of the model range have already been produced - boasts not only its own distinctive design and exclusive equipment, but its technology is unique too, as indicated by the model badge: the 550 stands for the power output in hp and the 2 is for rear wheel drive.

For several decades, Valentino Balboni has had a distinct influence on the character of the super sports car bearing the sign of the bull. With his fine-tuning and testing work, he has helped to shape many automotive legends, from the Lamborghini Miura of the 60s through to the current Gallardo and Murciélago models. Balboni was hired in 1967 by company founder Ferruccio Lamborghini himself. From early on, it was evident that the young Balboni had a special feel for cars, that most sensitive of all instincts that connects to the ‘life blood’ of an automobile and defines the soul of a test driver.

“A Lamborghini must always combine the precision of a race car with the reliability of a good friend,” says Balboni. Since 1973, he has sat at the wheel of every prototype built by the brand, and even most production cars have passed through his hands before being delivered to their customers. This has turned Balboni into one of the most important representatives of the brand, with an outstanding reputation and status among the brand’s fans and customers worldwide.

Limited to 250 units

After over 40 years with Lamborghini, Balboni is now officially retired. Yet, Valentino Balboni continues to travel to many countries around the world as an ambassador of the brand.
The special exclusivity of the Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni is guaranteed – it is limited to 250 units.

Light-footed yet extremely safe

With this latest version of the Gallardo, Lamborghini is honouring its long-standing test driver in a very special way. The LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni was conceived in line with his own thinking, and it meets many customers’ requests for a model with a unique character, which offers a very special kind of active driving fun. The Balboni model is the only current Lamborghini that delivers its power to the road via its rear wheels alone.

Rear wheel drive has a special appeal to those sports car drivers who enjoy a particular driving style. Thanks to the eminently powerful V10 driveline, controlled oversteer is no problem – naturally always to the extent defined by the driver - because refined road manners and perfectly tuned assistance systems mean that the Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni is an exceptionally safe sports car to drive.

Driving fun with unique character

In order to shape this unique character that combines driving fun and safety, the engineers at Sant’Agata Bolognese have incorporated extensive modifications into the LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni. It was not simply a question of moving the transmission to the rear axle, the vehicle had to be adjusted and tuned in every element of its driving dynamics. This includes springs, dampers, stabilisers and even the tyres. The aerodynamics were also adjusted to take account of the change to the power flow.

The rear axle differential, with a 45 percent limited slip, was also redeveloped, as was the calibration of the e-gear transmission. One significant point was the adjustments made to the ESP system. While the standard program is focused on high stability, the CORSA program permits greater drift angles, thus enabling drivers to enjoy the dynamics of the LP 550-2 to their full extent.

Outstanding performance is guaranteed

Adjustments have also been made to the very heart of the Gallardo, the 5.2 litre ten-cylinder: the perfect synthesis of hi-revving pleasure, pulling power, a constantly exuberant temperament and a powerful symphony played in all keys. In the Valentino Balboni, the compact and lightweight power unit generates 405 kW (550 hp). At a dry weight of only 1,380 kilograms, this guarantees outstanding performance: the LP 550-2 is catapulted from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62mph) in a breathtaking 3.9 seconds, while the top speed of 320 km/h (199 mph) guarantees its place among the ultimate in super sports cars.

Powerful elegance in its distinctive design

The Valentino Balboni is not only unique in terms of its technology: its design and equipment reinforce its exclusivity. Its classic sporting character is emphasised by a colour strip in white and gold running from the front panel over the roof and parts of the engine cover all the way to the rear spoiler, with inspiration from the classic sports cars from the ‘70s. This colour treatment underscores the powerful elegance of the Gallardo and emphasises the unique Lamborghini design DNA. The Special Edition is available in eight colours, from Bianco Monocerus through to Verde Ithaca, or Arancio Borealis to Nero Noctis. The Scorpius wheels retain their dark grey finish, while the brake callipers come in black, orange or yellow, depending on the exterior paint finish.

Classic sporting look for the interior, too

The characteristic colour combination is repeated in the interior. The basic colour of the full leather upholstery is black. Both seats, however, feature the colour strip in white. The centre console is completely upholstered in Polar white leather to create a powerful accent. A badge below the left side window bears the signature of Valentino Balboni and the production number of the car.

The exclusivity of the Valentino Balboni is augmented further by its extensive equipment. Alongside several new leather features in the interior, there is also the transparent engine cover, the rear view camera, the navigation system with Bluetooth and the lifting system for the front axle that makes it easier to drive over obstacles. In addition to the extensive standard equipment, a list of further options is available including e-gear transmission and carbon ceramic brakes.

Suggested retail price – without taxes

• Europe : € 162.000
  
• UK : £ 137.900
  
• USA : $ 219.800

[Source : LAMBORGHINI]