Lamborghini Gallardo
Spyder
November 2006
One of the most famous names in motoring has added to its range
of high performance cars with the revised version of the Gallardo
Spyder. Removing the roof of the coupe brings an extra dose of style as
well as the increased sensation of roof down motoring to make it an
even more desirable machine.
Like any real supercar, the Gallardo has a dramatic exterior. The
distinctive wedge shape is created by the low nose, rising waistline
and chunky rear end with a steeply-raked tail. The Spyder version is
even more dramatic, as the fabric roof creates the open-top look. The
Gallardo is also colour sensitive, as brighter hues highlight the shape
while darker colours hide its curves.
The centrepiece of the Gallardo Spyder
is its engine. The same 10-cylinder unit that powers the Gallardo coupe
has incredible performance and an amazing sound too, and it dominates
the experience behind the wheel. Harnessing all that power is the same
four-wheel-drive system, ensuring the power can be transmitted to the
road safely in most conditions.
The Gallardo benefits from the VW Group
ownership of Lamborghini most notable in terms of details, particularly
in the cabin. Although some of the switchgear and displays may be
familiar to Audi owners, this does mean a high level of quality and
clarity, where once idiosyncratic layouts caused owners distress.
The changes between the coupe and Spyder
versions of the Gallardo are subtle, and the Lamborghini designers have
ensured that the inclusion of a soft top disrupts the stylish looks as
little as possible. The roof mechanism is electrically operated and
requires a minimum of effort from the driver.
Dramatic shape arguably looks better in Spyder form
Ratings
Overall Rating
Value for money
Costs
Space and Practicality
Controls and display
Comfort
Security
Safety
Likes
Gorgeous looks with hood down
Engine is a masterpiece
Benign chassis inspires confidence
Surprisingly easy to drive
Gripes
Running costs will inevitably be high
Rear vision is poor
Cabin feels ordinary compared to rest of the car
Lack of storage space
Our Verdict
Despite the price tag the Gallardo Spyder has many
rivals, yet its distinctive personality and abilities make it a hard
car to beat. As a driving experience it is thrilling, yet it is a
relatively easy car to drive. If cost is not an issue, then it should
be near the top of any prospective shopping list.
Costs
The running costs for the Gallardo
will be very high. Insurance will be in the top group, fuel economy is
poor and emissions are high. Servicing is also likely to be expensive.
Space and Practicality
As far as passengers are concerned,
the Gallardo is on a par with its two-seater rivals, with decent head
and legroom. There are a few storage areas for oddments, although the
boot is not particularly large and its proximity to the engine does
mean it may suffer from heat soak.
Controls and Display
The layout of the Gallardo is very good, with
clearly labelled controls that operate smoothly and in a satisfying
manner. The instruments are clear and attractive, while the buttons and
switches feel well designed and robust.
Chunky rear balances the sharp and low nose
Comfort
Given its wild side, the Gallardo offers reasonable comfort levels. The
seats are supportive, the ride is acceptable and noise levels are quite
low when the engine is being used with restraint.
Security
A desirable car such as this requires
a high level of security, and the Gallardo includes remote central
locking with an engine immobiliser and alarm. A remote tracking system
is also available for extra peace of mind.
Safety
A high level of passive safety
includes front and side airbags, while on the active safety front the
inclusion of four-wheel-drive, ABS and ESP coupled to the high
specification of the suspension, brakes and engine make it a very
capable and safe car in the right hands.
Driver Appeal
The Gallardo is a surprisingly
friendly car to drive, despite the huge horsepower and wild exterior.
The clutch, steering and gearbox are relatively lightweight but
accurate, which inspires confidence. Once on the move, the 5.0-litre
V10 delivers manic performance even with a gentle squeeze of the
accelerator, and at full power it is incredibly quick. The
four-wheel-drive system inspires confidence, and the strong brakes and
accurate steering make the Gallardo a rewarding car to drive.
Family Appeal
With only two seats and a small boot, the Gallardo would not make a good family car.
High quality cabin is easy to use
First Car Appeal
The Gallardo is not an appropriate
first car, as its performance and expense will exceed the capability of
an inexperienced driver.
Quality and image
Thanks to input from the VW Group,
the Gallardo is a high quality car, with a very good standard of finish
inside and out. Buyers can be confident that the reliability woes of
older Lamborghini products have been eradicated. The Lamborghini's
image is also highly attractive, being synonymous with high performance
and style. The only possible demerit is that some regard Lamborghinis
as being better suited to 'show-offs' than drivers, but the Gallardo's
performance rebukes that.
Accessibility
Despite the wedge shape, gaining
access to the Gallardo is simple. The door handle pops easily, and the
long doors have a wide opening. Occupants do need to drop down into the
seats, but otherwise it is simple and easy.
Stereo and ICE
An Audi-sourced radio/CD unit is
fitted as standard, which delivers a high level of sound quality and a
simple interface with large screen display. Although the system might
struggle at higher speeds with the roof down, the engine is far more
exciting to listen to.
Colours and Trim
High quality leather and alcantara feature
throughout the cabin of the Gallardo, while the remaining plastic trim
is also of a high quality. A range of colours is available, and
although much of the trim is dark, the cabin still feels inviting.
V10 engine is a powerful and full of character
Parking
This is one area where the Gallardo struggles. Even with the roof down
rear visibility is poor, and with the roof up it is even worse. The
view forward is good but the nose drops steeply away making it
difficult to judge the car's extremities. However, the clutch is
surprisingly light as is the steering at parking speeds.
Spare Wheel
Tyre inflation system fitted as standard
Range information
One engine option: 5.0-litre V10
petrol (520bhp), mated to a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed
automated manual dubbed E-Gear. No trim levels, two models are Coupe
and Spyder. High standard specification with large choice of options.
Alternatives
Ferrari F430 Spider Sublime driving experience, looks a matter of taste
Porsche 911 Cabriolet Best everyday supercar, still a joy to drive
Corvette C6 Convertible Bargain supercar, quality lags behind rivals
Chrysler SRT-10 Giant engine and giant performance, some quality issues
