The Lamborghini Centenario LP 770-4 Roadster is an open-top, limited-production hypercar produced by the Italian manufacturer Lamborghini. Unveiled in August 2016 at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, it served as a celebration of Ferruccio Lamborghini’s 100th birthday. Production was limited to just 20 roadster examples, making it one of the rarest Lamborghinis ever created. Built between October 2016 and August 2018, the Centenario Roadster is based on the Aventador platform but features significant advancements in aerodynamics, materials, and performance. It represents the pinnacle of Lamborghini’s engineering capabilities at the time of its release.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lamborghini |
| Model | Centenario |
| Generation | Centenario LP 770-4 Roadster |
| Type (Engine) | 6.5 V12 (770 Hp) 4WD ISR |
| Start of production | October, 2016 |
| End of production | August, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 24.7 l/100 km (9.5 US mpg, 11.4 UK mpg, 4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 16 l/100 km (14.7 US mpg, 17.7 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 370 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 2.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 2.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 2.8 sec |
| 100 km/h – 0 | 31 m |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 2 kg/Hp, 490.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.3 kg/Nm, 439.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 770 Hp @ 8500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 118.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 690 Nm @ 5500 rpm (508.92 lb.-ft. @ 5500 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 |
| Kerb Weight | 1570 kg (3461.26 lbs.) |
| Length | 4924 mm (193.86 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2061 mm (81.14 in.) |
| Height | 1158 mm (45.59 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| 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
The heart of the Centenario Roadster is Lamborghini’s naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine, designated the L539. This engine produces a staggering 770 horsepower at 8,500 rpm and 690 Nm (508.92 lb-ft) of torque at 5,500 rpm. The engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a high 11.8:1 compression ratio. It’s a longitudinally mounted, mid-engine configuration, contributing to the car’s exceptional balance. The engine is paired with a 7-speed Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) automated manual transmission. This ISR transmission, while quicker than a traditional manual, is known for its somewhat jerky low-speed operation, a characteristic Lamborghini has refined in subsequent models. The powertrain is designed for maximum performance, prioritizing rapid acceleration and responsiveness over fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The Centenario Roadster delivers an incredibly visceral driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is achieved in a blistering 2.8 seconds, and 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes just 2.9 seconds. Top speed exceeds 217 mph (350 km/h). The all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional traction, allowing the driver to confidently exploit the engine’s immense power. The ISR transmission, while quick during upshifts, can be less refined at lower speeds, requiring a skilled driver to manage smoothly. The car’s lightweight construction, achieved through extensive use of carbon fiber, contributes to its agile handling and responsiveness. Compared to the Aventador, the Centenario Roadster offers a more focused and track-oriented driving experience, with enhanced aerodynamics and a more aggressive suspension setup.
Equipment & Trim Levels
Given its limited production run and ultra-high price point, the Centenario Roadster offered a high degree of customization. Standard features included a fully carbon fiber body, a bespoke interior with Alcantara and leather upholstery, and a high-end audio system. Lamborghini’s Ad Personam customization program allowed owners to personalize virtually every aspect of the car, from the exterior paint color to the interior stitching. Optional extras included a nose lift system, various carbon fiber trim packages, and personalized interior detailing. The interior featured a digital instrument cluster and a centrally mounted touchscreen display controlling infotainment and vehicle settings.
Chassis & Braking
The Centenario Roadster’s chassis is constructed primarily from carbon fiber, resulting in a remarkably lightweight and rigid structure. The suspension utilizes a double-wishbone setup at both the front and rear, with magnetorheological dampers that adjust to road conditions in real-time. Braking is provided by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with six-piston calipers at the front and four-piston calipers at the rear. The car is equipped with an advanced anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) to enhance safety and control. The steering system is a power-assisted rack and pinion setup, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lamborghini Centenario Roadster was met with widespread acclaim from automotive journalists and enthusiasts. Critics praised its stunning design, exceptional performance, and advanced technology. Its limited production run and high price (approximately $1.9 million) ensured exclusivity and desirability. Compared to other hypercars of the era, such as the Ferrari LaFerrari and the McLaren P1, the Centenario Roadster stood out for its naturally aspirated V12 engine and its dramatic, aggressive styling. While the LaFerrari and P1 utilized hybrid powertrains for increased efficiency, the Centenario Roadster focused purely on delivering a raw and exhilarating driving experience. Fuel economy was, unsurprisingly, poor, with combined figures around 14.7 US mpg.
Legacy
The Lamborghini Centenario Roadster represents a significant milestone in Lamborghini’s history. It showcased the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering and design. The car’s innovative use of carbon fiber and its powerful V12 engine set a new standard for hypercar performance. On the used car market, the Centenario Roadster remains highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, commanding prices well above its original MSRP. The powertrain, while demanding in terms of maintenance, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly cared for. The Centenario Roadster’s legacy as a limited-edition masterpiece is secure, cementing its place among the most iconic Lamborghinis ever created.
