The Lamborghini Aventador S Roadster 6.5 V12 (740 Hp) 4WD ISR, launched in 2017, represents the open-top iteration of Lamborghini’s flagship V12 supercar, building upon the already potent Aventador S coupe. Positioned as the most exhilarating version of the Aventador available at its release, the Roadster combined the performance enhancements of the ‘S’ model with the added sensory experience of open-air driving. It slots into the top tier of Lamborghini’s lineup, offering a more exclusive and visceral experience than the standard Aventador. The Aventador S Roadster is built on the Lamborghini chassis platform, utilizing extensive carbon fiber construction to achieve a remarkable power-to-weight ratio. It continues the tradition of Lamborghini’s iconic V12 engine, delivering extreme performance and a distinctive exhaust note.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lamborghini |
| Model | Aventador |
| Generation | Aventador S Roadster |
| Type (Engine) | 6.5 V12 (740 Hp) 4WD ISR |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Roadster |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 18.8 l/100 km (12.5 US mpg, 15 UK mpg, 5.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 499 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 26.2 l/100 km (9 US mpg, 10.8 UK mpg, 3.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 11.6 l/100 km (20.3 US mpg, 24.4 UK mpg, 8.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 16.9 l/100 km (13.9 US mpg, 16.7 UK mpg, 5.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 394 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 9.0 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 300 km/h | 25.0 sec |
| Maximum speed | 350 km/h (217.48 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 2.2 kg/Hp, 455.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.4 kg/Nm, 424.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 740 Hp @ 8400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 113.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 690 Nm @ 5500 rpm (508.92 lb.-ft. @ 5500 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 8500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Middle, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L539 |
| Engine displacement | 6498 cm3 (396.53 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 95 mm (3.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.4 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 12 l (12.68 US qt, 10.56 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 25 l (26.42 US qt, 22 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1625 kg (3582.51 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 140 l (4.94 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 85 l (22.45 US gal, 18.7 UK gal) |
| Length | 4797 mm (188.86 in.) |
| Width | 2030 mm (79.92 in.) |
| Height | 1136 mm (44.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 115 mm (4.53 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission ISR |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/30 ZR20; 355/25 ZR21 |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 20; 13J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Aventador S Roadster lies the Lamborghini L539 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine. This engine produces 740 horsepower at 8,400 rpm and 690 Nm (508.92 lb-ft) of torque at 5,500 rpm. The engine utilizes a 65-degree V-angle, contributing to its smooth operation and compact dimensions. It features multi-point fuel injection and a high 11.8:1 compression ratio. The engine’s architecture is longitudinally mounted in a mid-engine configuration, optimizing weight distribution. The transmission is a 7-speed Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) automated manual gearbox. Unlike a traditional dual-clutch transmission, the ISR uses hydraulically actuated rods to shift gears, resulting in a unique, albeit sometimes jerky, shifting experience. The all-wheel-drive system employs a viscous coupling to distribute power between the front and rear axles, providing enhanced traction and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The Aventador S Roadster delivers a driving experience characterized by raw power and dramatic acceleration. The 7-speed ISR transmission, while quick, can be less refined than modern dual-clutch systems, particularly at lower speeds. The gear ratios are tuned for maximum performance, prioritizing acceleration over fuel efficiency. The naturally aspirated V12 engine provides a linear power delivery, building to a crescendo at high RPMs. The all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional grip, allowing the car to launch aggressively from a standstill and maintain high speeds through corners. Compared to the Aventador S coupe, the Roadster offers a more immersive driving experience due to the open-top configuration, amplifying the engine’s sound and the sensation of speed. However, the Roadster’s added weight (approximately 55 lbs over the coupe) slightly impacts its agility.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Aventador S Roadster came generously equipped, reflecting its status as a flagship model. Standard features included a carbon fiber T-top roof (which could be stowed in the front trunk), leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. The interior featured a digital instrument cluster and a minimalist dashboard design. Numerous customization options were available through Lamborghini’s Ad Personam program, allowing buyers to personalize the car’s interior and exterior to their exact specifications. Optional extras included carbon fiber interior trim, upgraded audio systems, and various exterior styling packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Aventador S Roadster utilizes a lightweight chassis constructed primarily from carbon fiber. This construction contributes to the car’s impressive strength and rigidity while minimizing weight. The suspension system features double wishbones at all four corners, with magnetorheological dampers that adjust to road conditions in real-time. The braking system consists of ventilated carbon-ceramic discs with six-piston calipers at the front and four-piston calipers at the rear, providing exceptional stopping power. The steering system is a speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion setup with electric power assistance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Aventador S Roadster was widely praised by automotive critics for its breathtaking performance, stunning design, and exhilarating driving experience. However, its high price tag and occasionally jerky transmission were noted as drawbacks. Compared to the Aventador S coupe, the Roadster offered a more visceral and engaging driving experience, but at the cost of some practicality and a slight increase in weight. Against competitors like the Ferrari 812 Superfast and the McLaren 720S Spider, the Aventador S Roadster stood out for its dramatic styling and naturally aspirated V12 engine.
Legacy
The Aventador S Roadster remains a highly sought-after supercar in the used car market. The L539 V12 engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable with proper maintenance. Regular servicing, including oil changes and inspections, is crucial to ensure the engine’s longevity. The ISR transmission can require more frequent maintenance than a traditional dual-clutch system. The Aventador S Roadster represents a pinnacle of Lamborghini’s engineering and design prowess, and its iconic status is likely to endure for years to come. Its combination of extreme performance, open-air thrills, and striking aesthetics continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike.
