Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Spyder Performante

Lamborghini has announced details of its new lightweight drop-top, the Lamborgini Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante.

A Gallardo Superleggera Spyder in all but name, the Performante weighs in at 1485kg - 65kg lighter than the regular Spyder. Its 5.2 litre V10 engine produces 570bhp and 398 lb ft of torque. This leads to a 0-62mph time of 3.9sec (0.1sec quicker than an LP560-4 Spyder) whilst both soft-top Gallardos have the same 201mph top speed. The Performante will come as standard with Lambo’s six-speed e-gear paddle-operated automatic transmission. A manual will remain a no-cost option. Like the Superleggera, there is permanent four-wheel drive, with a standard 30:70 front/rear split in normal driving conditions. Semi-slick Pirelli P Zero Corsas and standard eight-piston front brake calipers complete the set up with ceramic brakes remaining on the options list. The weight reduction is (like with the Superleggera) largely down to carbonfibre interior and exterior components, including the large panel to cover the soft-top, engine and transmission. However, whereas the Superleggera really lives up to its ‘super lightweight’ name, the roadster's electric roof mechanism and extra body strengthening result in the Performante being 145kg heavier than its hard-top brother – perhaps explaining why the Spyder loses the Superleggera tag. Sitting on the same 19in lightweight wheels as the Superleggera, the Performante will also be distinguishable from the standard Spyder by its remodelled front bumper and new rear diffuser (both to improve downforce), as well as the Performante legend emblazoned on the sides. A discreet rear spoiler is optional. The weight-saving alcantara-clad interior also has carbonfibre touches lavished upon it – the most notable area being the sports seats.  Electric windows and air conditioning remain as standard while the seat stitching can be made to match the colour of the car. Deliveries of the Gallardo LP570-4 Spyder Performante should start in the next six months with final prices yet to be confirmed. Expect the car to be priced at around £180,000, a healthy £25,000 premium over the regular Spyder and around £6000 more than the hard-top Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera.

VIDEO: Review of the Lamborghini LP570-4 Superleggera FEATURE: Lamborghini LP550-2 v Gallardo Super Trofeo VIDEO: Roger and John race in the Super Trofeo at Spa

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