Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni

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Year	2009
Engine	5.2 litre , V-10 DOHC
Transmission	6-speed manual RWD
Max speed	199 mph
0-60 mph	3.9 seconds
Horsepower	550 hp
weight	1380 kg / 3042 lbs

The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni is a special edition model created to honor Lamborghini's most famous test driver.

Valentino Balboni has had a distinct influence on the character of Lamborghini's for over 40 years. Thanks to his fine-tuning and testing work, he has helped to shape many automotive legends, from the Lamborghini Miura of the 60s through to the current Gallardo and Murciélago models. Balboni was hired in 1967 by company founder Ferruccio Lamborghini himself. "A Lamborghini must always combine the precision of a race car with the reliability of a good friend," says Balboni. Since 1973, he has sat at the wheel of every prototype built by the brand, and even most production cars have passed through his hands before being delivered to their customers.

The LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni was developed in line with Balboni's requirements. It also fulfills many customers' requests for a model with a unique character, and the Balboni model is the only current Lamborghini that send its power to the road through its rear wheels alone.

Lamborghini's engineers have incorporated extensive modifications into the LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni. It was not simply a question of moving the transmission to the rear axle, the vehicle had to be adjusted and tuned in every element of its driving dynamics. This includes springs, dampers, stabilisers and even the tires. The aerodynamics were also adjusted to take account of the change to the power flow.

The rear axle differential, with a 45 percent limited slip, was also redeveloped, as was the calibration of the e-gear transmission. One significant point was the adjustments made to the ESP system. While the standard program is focused on high stability, the CORSA program permits greater drift angles, thus enabling drivers to enjoy the dynamics of the LP 550-2 to their full extent.

Enhancements have also been made to the 5.2 litre V10 engine meaning that power now stands at 550 hp (405 Kw). Combined with a dry weight of only 1,380 kilograms the 0-62mph sprint takes just 3.9 seconds, while the top speed is 199 mph (320 km/h).

The Valentino Balboni is not only unique in terms of its technology, the styling and equipment is intended to further increase its exclusivity. Its classic sporting character is emphasised by a color strip in white and gold running from the front panel over the roof and parts of the engine cover all the way to the rear spoiler, with inspiration from the classic sports cars from the '70s. The LP550-2 Balboni Edition is available in eight colors. The wheels are finished in dark grey, while the brake calipers come in black, orange or yellow, depending on the exterior paint finish.

The striped exterior color combination is repeated in the interior. The basic color of the full leather upholstery is black. White leather accents adorn the seats and centre console. A badge below the left side window bears the signature of Valentino Balboni and the production number of the car. The production run of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni is limited to 250 units.

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