One sale in just a few months, Lamborghini's "evolution" version of its Murcilago debuts at the Geneva auto show in March. Called the LP640 ("LP" for "longitudinale posteriore," the engine's position in the car, and "640" denoting its power output), Lamborghini's new version of its best-selling sports car boasts a reworked engine, suspension, gearbox, exhaust system, and brakes--as well as a restyled interior similar to that of the Murcilago roadster.
Increased bore and a longer stroke have resulted in a displacement boost from 6.2 liters to 6.5; a redesigned cylinder head, intake, and engine management system also come along for the ride and help account for the attendant horsepower jump to 640 from the old model's 580. In addition, a modified six-speed transmission, strengthened rear differential, and new axle shafts beef up this raging bull. As a result of all this, the 0-60 mph time drops, by 0.4 seconds, to 3.4.
Cosmetic changes include new front and rear bumpers, an exhaust system that terminates in the rear bumper's lower diffuser, and a modification of the two body-side air intakes (one of which houses an enlarged oil cooler). Springs, anti-roll bars, and shocks are all new, along with a new 8.5 x 18/13 x 18 (front/rear) "Hermera" standard wheel.