The main talk about Automobili Lamborghini SpA is still the new ‘affordable’ model that will be introduced shortly, this new model will use a V10 engine delivering over 500 Bhp to power a car that will put only 1400 Kg on the scale, a very impressive power to weight ratio for a Lamborghini.
There are two names being mentioned for this car, on the one hand we’ve got the Gallardo name, which has been registered together with ‘Murciélago’ some time ago, but on the other hand the name ‘Stella’ has been surfaced again, however we’ll have to wait until the public unveiling of this brand new Lamborghini to be sure how it will be called.
By now it is sure that the Lamborghini V10 powered model will share much of it’s components with the new Audi RSR super car, the production version of the stunning Rosemeyer concept car. With a more conventional styling, the well known Quattro drive, a six speed TipTronic gearbox coupled to a new V-10 engine with a displacement of either 5.0 or 6.0 Liter this new Audi work of art will go on sale during 2004, while the Lamborghini version will available mid 2003 according to the latest information.
Much like the Audi derivative, the Lamborghini will use an aluminum chassis and bodywork, both built in Germany by an Audi plant in Neckarsulm, the engine will however be assembled in Sant’Agata, where the finishing touches will be installed too.
The Lamborghini will out power the Audi version and offer a 2+2 seating configuration with an overall roomier impression when compared with the current Murciélago, but without the magnificent trademark upward opening doors.
If everything goes as planned in Italy, the new Lamborghini Gallardo or Stella, whatever they decide to call it, will be presented to a small group of invited Lamborghini owners and clubs from around the world during the 40th Anniversary celebration at the factory which will be held in early May of 2003.
