Car Design News: Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 in Detail

Gearbox and transmission: improved efficiency and strength

More power and higher torque call for superior gearbox component performance. To meet these new demands, the new Murci�lago LP640 features a modified six-ratio gearbox as well as a tougher rear differential and new axle shafts. On request, the e-gear automatic gearbox is also available equipped with the new dedicated �Thrust� (acceleration programme) mode.

Just like its predecessors, the Murci�lago LP640 features permanent four-wheel drive, based on the reliable Lamborghini VT (Viscous Traction) system. The system is self-governing and does not feature any electronic controls. The drive force is usually divided between the front and rear axles in the ratio of 30 to 70. An independent control circuit adjusts the distribution of the drive force depending on dynamic oscillation, weight distribution and the relative friction factor in perfect synchronisation with the Visco clutch. In extreme cases, up to 100% of the drive force can be applied to a single axle.

Electronics: a "closed loop" for total control

The electronics have also been updated. The modified engine control units improve engine performance and �driveability� thanks to �closed loop� control.

Every engine and vehicle parameter is managed and controlled by three �master� control units and a �satellite� control unit. The master control units consist of two Lamborghini "LIE" engine control units, a Lamborghini �GFA� (Auxiliary Function Management) control unit and a Lamborghini �PMC� (Power Motor Control) satellite control unit. The control units are interconnected by a CAN Bus line.

Frame and chassis: perfect harmony

The body of the Murci�lago LP640 with its characteristic scissor doors is created from the prized union of sheet steel and honeycombed carbon fibre, glued and riveted together.

Driving, handling and stability at high speed are enhanced by new springs and stabilisers, as well as by a redesigned electronically controlled damper. The "anti-dive" and "anti-squat" features on the axles, which efficiently prevent so-called "brake diving" and "squatting", have not been changed. The two springs on every rear wheel, the single spring on every front wheel and the damper are placed coaxially.

The new aluminium "Hermera" rims measure 8 �" x 18" (fore carriage) and 13" x 18" (rear axle). The vehicle can be fitted with various sized Pirelli P Zero "Rosso" tyres. The Murci�lago LP640 features 245/35 ZR 18 front tyres and 335/30 ZR 18 rear tyres. For sports use, especially on racetracks, Lamborghini provides optional Pirelli P Zero �Corsa� (Race) tyres. Pirelli P �Sottozero� (Sub zero) winter tyres are currently being developed.

Brakes and safety: optional ceramic carbon brakes

A super sports car such as the Lamborghini Murci�lago LP640 ensures high safety levels.

The dual hydraulic circuit brake system equipped with a vacuum brake booster ensures considerable deceleration values. The self-ventilating front and rear brake disks measure 380 mm x 34 mm and 355 mm x 32 mm respectively. The control circuit of the four-channel anti-blocking system (ABS) with electronic brake control (DRP) and traction control (TCS) features a new characteristic curve. The system consists in an electro-hydraulic control unit and four speed sensors.

When particularly high braking performance is required, on request it is possible to equip the vehicle with 380 mm x 36 mm ceramic carbon brakes featuring six-piston brake callipers. Thus, less pressure needs to be applied to the brake pedal and the braking distance is reduced. Even in extremely demanding conditions there is almost no perceptible fading. Considerably reduced weight and superior lifetime represent two further advantages, as well as a captivating graphic design.

The new Murci�lago LP640 also meets with even the most rigorous safety requirements. Thanks to the two front airbags (a 60-litre single stage air bag on the driver side and a 130-litre two stage airbag on the passenger side), the Murci�lago LP640 complies with every international law in effect in terms of head-on and side crashes, impacts against posts, occupant safety, fuel supply integrity and flammability of materials. The luggage compartment also complies with childproof safety regulations.

Interior: even more exclusive and customised

The seats in the cockpit have undergone the most radical changes; more spacious and equipped with redesigned head restraints, the seats now ensure better comfort. The leather upholstery features lozenge-shaped stitching called "Q-citura". The same design is recaptured on the upholstery on the door panels, the panel between the seats and the engine compartment, and on the roof panel.

A new instrument panel has been developed with lights featuring a new graphic design, flanked by a new Kenwood car radio with a 6.5� widescreen monitor and DVD, MP3 and WMA player. An optional navigation system is also available (standard in Japan).

Like its predecessors, the new Murci�lago LP640 can be customised thanks to the special fittings and upholstery packages. For the first time, the renowned characteristic Murci�lago Roadster asymmetric and driver-oriented fittings and upholstery are available for the Coup�, featuring a perforated leather driver�s seat and door panel.

Thanks to the "Privilegio" customisation program, any Murci�lago LP640 can be transformed into a customised sports car. For example, the cockpit can be enhanced with an extremely refined carbon finish applied to the air conditioning control panel, the control lever console and the parking brake.

Technical Data Frame

Bodywork

In carbon fibre, except roof and door external panels (steel)

Steering

Type Mechanical (rack and pinion) power-assisted
Right-hand turning circle 12.55 m
Wheels and tyres
Front 245/35 ZR 18
Rear 335/30 ZR 18

Engine

Type	12 cylinders at 60�
Bore	88 mm
Displacement	6496 cc
Compression ratio	(11 � 0.2):1
Maximum power	640 hp (471 kW) at 8000 rpm
Maximum torque	660 Nm at 6000 rpm
Engine position in vehicle	Longitudinal central-rear
Cylinder heads and engine block	Aluminium
Intake system	Variable geometry with 3 operating modes

Timing

4 valves per cylinder, 4 overhead camshafts
Timing gear transmission 2 chains
Continuous timing variator (int. and ex.) Electronically controlled

Ignition system

Fuel system/injection
Lamborghini LIE electronic engine control unit, multipoint, sequential timed, DRIVE BY WIRE

Lubrication system

Type	Dry sump
Recovery pumps	2 gear pumps
Delivery pump (high pressure)	1 gear pump

Cooling system

Type Liquid cooled, with pressurized circuit

Transmission

Type of transmission	Permanent all-wheel drive with Viscous Traction system
Gearbox	6-speed mechanical gearbox
Clutch	Dry single disc
Clutch disc diameter	272 mm
Disengagement	With self-adjusting hydraulic control

Transmission ratios

Gearbox:
_Ist	1:3.091
II^nd	1:2.105
III^rd	1:1.565
IV^th	1:1.241
_Vth	1:1.065
VI^th	1:0.939
Reverse	1:2.692

Brakes

4 self-ventilated rotors with pedal control, hydraulic transmission with dual independent circuits, one for each axle with vacuum servo. ABS antilock device + DRP function.
	Steel brake lines
Front rotor		� 3 80 x 34 mm
Front calliper cylinders		N. 8 (32-28 mm/32-28 mm)
Rear rotor		� 355 x 32 mm
Rear calliper cylinders		N. 4 (40-44 mm)
	Ceramic rotors system (Optional)
Front rotor		� 380 x 38 mm
Front calliper cylinders		N. 6 (32-36-38 mm)
Rear rotor		� 3 80 x 3 8 mm
Rear calliper cylinders		N. 6 (32-36-38 mm)
Handbrake		Mechanical, acting on rear wheels

Suspension

4-wheel independent articulated quadrilateral system. Hydraulic shock absorbers and coaxial coil springs. Suspension with dual front and rear struts, antiroll, antidive and antisquat bar.

Performance data

Top speed 340 km/h
Acceleration 0-100 km/h 3.4 s

Dimensions

Wheelbase	2665 mm
Total length	4610 mm
Total width	2058 mm
Total height	1135 mm
Dry weight (no fuel)	1665 kg
Front trackwidth	1635 mm
Rear trackwidth	1695 mm
Front overhang	1005 mm
Rear overhang	910 mm
Maximum overall width with external rear-view mirrors	2240 mm
Fuel tank	100 litres
Engine oil	12 litres
Gearbox oil	3.5 litres
Front differential oil	1 litre
Rear differential oil	2.5 litres
Cooling circuit	15 litres