Supercars.net

Frankfurt, Germany, September 12th 2005-Two years after the release of the Gallardo Coupe supercar, Lamborghini have released their drop-top version at the 2005 Frankfurt Auto Show. The new Gallardo Spider features a fully retractable soft top that takes a mere 20 seconds to deploy.

The Gallardo Spyder is not just an open-top version of the Coupe, but is a completely new model. The new Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder features a number of important modifications to the original engine and transmission.

The V10 engine now develops 520 hp (382 kW) at 8,000 rpm. The six-speed gearbox now has lower ratios which create a more dynamic performance along with the more direct steering and recalibrated suspension.

Great care has been taken over the structural design of the new Gallardo Spyder, which of course complies fully with all the relevant safety standards. The space frame has been reinforced in the area of the sills and the A pillars have been strengthened with the adoption of an automatic Roll Over protection system (comprising two 'pop-ups') integrated with the air bag system.

Like the other models in the range, the Gallardo Spyder also benefits from aluminium bodywork and features permanent four-wheel drive.

And finally, its performance figures: the Gallardo Spyder - which complies with EURO 4 homologation standards - reaches a top speed of 314 km/h with the roof up and 307 km/h with the roof down, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds.

There are also new body colours available. In addition to those current range of Gallardo colours, the new Gallardo Spyder is also available in the two special colours: Celeste Phoebe (light blue) and Verde Picus (green).

Story by Supercars.net & Lamborghini