By MarkSmeyers
Photos by DavidKaiser
Spectators, owners, and enthusiasts had very high expectations f or the Automobili Lamborghini SpA showing at the 2011 IAA Auto Show in Frankfurt – and I was no different. Thinking back to the 2007 Frankfurt Show when Lamborghini surpr ised the world with their very limited edition Reventon model (the show in which the Reve nton became an instant classic and collector’s item), we were all excited to have a similar unveiling of the latest supercar from Sant’Agata, Italy.
Only twenty of the super-exotic Reventon Bulls were built. Pri ced at a cool $1.4M USD (1 million Euro), it was sold out even before the public was able to admire it in German y at the IAA. However, Automobili Lamborghini SpA topped this feat one year later in Paris when they showed a totally unseen concept to the world: the four-door Estoque.
The Estoque was a model that finally brought back the four seat option in a Lamborghini; however, the economic difficulties forced a stop in production. While there are several unconfirmed stories surrounding possible future production, Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Automobili Lamborghini SpA, has confirmed a third model in this range would be a good idea. Only time will tell whether or not there will be a new release.
On to the 2009 edition of the IAA in Frankfurt where Lamborghini unveiled a Roadster edition of the Reventon. While it may not have been the most innovative idea, it was one that once again ensured Lamborghini was on track building ultra-exotic supercars. The Reventon Roadster was a very limited edition. Only fifteen cars were built. It is easy to assume that most of us will never see it on the open road in our lifetime.
Given the two previously introduced IAA editions, the stage was set for Automobili Lamborghini SpA to unveil a very special limited edition model based on a regular production version. Expectations were high for the 2011 edition and a possible new release.
Rumors were flying around a potential Sesto Elemento production model. The amazing, all carbon fiber concept was shown at the 2010 Paris Motor Show. Everyone instantly loved the concept and wanted to send their order in immediately. However, there was a hitch: this was an actual concept car. While it was able to be driven, it was definitely not street legal. Would this concept be reworked as a production car? A limited production ‘track use only’ Sesto Elemento was released to meet the public demand.
With a confirmed plan for the Sesto Elemento, rumors once again began circulating regarding what would be seen at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show. Would there be a successor to the Gallardo? A Roadster version of the new Aventador that had been introduced in March in Geneva? A production version of the Estoque? Possibly a two-door Estoque? Or even a new SUV?
Fast forward: at the press conference on September 13, 2011 inside the IAA exhibition center, Stephan Winkelmann personally introduced the new Lamborghini Gallardo Super Trofeo Stradale, a street legal version of the well-known Blancpain Super Trofeo one make racing championship car. Rosso Mars, the name of the new bright shade of red found on the Super Trofeo Stradale, is a tint that has not been seen on many Lamborghinis since the Diablo. The bright red color was not available through standard options on either the Gallardo or the Murcielago and only made available through the Ad Personam program where customers could specify their preferred paint color and other options. In a ‘blast from the past’ manner of thinking, the bright shade of red became standard for the Stradale. This is a very bold choice that mirrors the image of historic Italian race cars.
For those who prefer a different shade on their supercar, Lamborghini also offers white (Bianco Monocerus) or grey (Grigio Telesto) as a standard option. Additionally, through the Ad Personam program, metallic, triple coat paints, or the high gloss black roof section are available.
The Super Trofeo Stradale is a street legal version of a race car. How much of that race pedigree made it into the production Stradale? Keep in mind that the Stradale is a V10 that can be used daily , if desired. The 570 ps engine is mounted from the Superleggera.
It is an engine closely related to the actual Super Trofeo race engine and it propels the Stradale to a top speed of no less than 198.85 mph (320 Km/h). Reaching 62.14 mph (100 Km/h) from a standing start only takes 3.4 seconds. In 10.4 seconds, the Stradale hits 124.28 mph (200 Km/h) thanks to a power to weight ratio of 2.35 Kgs per Hp. The transmission is the well-known e-Gear setup featuring six gears that can switch gears much quicker than most humans (if not all) are capable of accomplishing and there is even a thrust mode that launches very quickly when the acceleration kicks in at 5000 rpm.
Just like most other Gallardo models, the Stradale is a four-wheel drive car making the drive in this car precise, stable and safe. The suspension is very closely related to the race car version with double wishbone, precise rack and pinion steering, and a setup to take complete advantage of the dynamics on the Stradale.
Because legislation did not allow for the impressive front spoiler of the Super Trofeo, the small fins on the sides, or the red ring in the middle. These features did not make it into production; however, the next best feature was incorporated: the front spoiler from the LP570-4 Superleggera. The Supperleggera also provided other features on the Super Trofeo Stradale: the wheels, the side skirts, and the quartet of matt black exhaust pipes at the rear that make the V10 breathe with a very nice sound. These elements should be easily recognized.
But the Stradale is not just a repainted Superleggera. Lamborghini did apply the Super Trofeo pedigree a bit further onto this street version by mounting the impressive, slotted engine cover and massive rear wing that includes a handsome Super Trofeo Stradale scripting on the clear carbon fiber mid-section. The outer fins on the wing are color coordinated to the rest of the car, just as the disc brake calipers and part of the interior are. Additionally, as it is featured on the race car, the rear wing is fully adjustable – not electrically but manually, like the real deal. Another nice detail that came from the race car is a quick release system for the entire engine cover . Along with the rear wing, both pieces are made of carbon fiber, and are taken from the car when you need to 19 | La Vita Lamborghini | FALL 2011 reach the engine, unlike other models that rely on hinges. Other exterior details include the exterior rear view mirrors that are made from clear carbon fiber. The disc brakes are carbon ceramic units (optionally) to avoid extra weight.
The wheels are 28.6 lbs / 13 Kgs lighter compared to the typical LP560-4 mounted wheels. Add to this the titanium bolts and wheel bearings and you realize that Lamborghini has made some serious progress in losing weight on a car where each lb / Kg counts. It is clear Lamborghini stayed with the ‘lightweight’ mind-set with this new limited edition super Gallardo model. Most likely this will be the swan song of the Gallardo range.
Taking a look inside the Stradale, black and red Alcantara and glossy carbon fiber are everywhere. The magnificent racing seats are covered in a stunning combination of black and red lightweight Alcantara with contrasting red stitching. The bottom section of the dashboard is covered in Rosso Mars Alcantara while the steering wheel has black suede with red stitching.
Most metal parts that are still visible are finished in dark chrome. These can optionally be switched over to carbon fiber. The entire door panel is made from carbon fiber, as are the monocoque racing seats and central console. Many other interior parts can optionally be made from or covered in the same carbon fiber.
In case the ‘standard’ Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale is not ‘racing’ enough for you, Lamborghini offers a few well selected options. These include a full rollover cage, four point racing harness seat belts, and a fire extinguisher. For more comfort, options include the satellite navigation system complete with Bluetooth connection for your phone, an anti-theft system, and, as usual, a lift system to raise the front a bit.
Was the exotic supercar world waiting for another limited edition based on the Lamborghini Gallardo or would they have preferred a real successor to tackle the competition from Maranello with the 458? Only the future will tell, but a bet can be made that Automobili Lamborghini SpA is already working hard on a brand new V10 model that will rule the roads once again in the very near future. For now , Lamborghini owners and enthusiasts will settle for this very special Gallardo model. With only 150 total units scheduled to be built, the Super Trofeo Stradale will undoubtedly become an instant collectible once the supply is gone.
Originally published in issue 23 (Fall 2011) of Lavita Lamborghini Magazine.