The Lamborghini Reventon 6.5 V12, produced in limited numbers between 2008 and 2009, represents an extreme expression of Lamborghini’s performance and design philosophy. Based heavily on the Murciélago LP640, the Reventon was conceived as a showcase of Lamborghini’s capabilities, drawing inspiration from the F-22 Raptor fighter jet in its angular, aggressive styling. Only 20 units of the original coupe were produced, with an additional 15 open-top roadsters following in 2009, making it one of the rarest and most exclusive Lamborghini models ever created. The Reventon served as a technological demonstrator for future Lamborghini designs and materials, pushing the boundaries of supercar performance and aesthetics.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lamborghini |
| Model | Reventon |
| Generation | Reventon |
| Type (Engine) | 6.5 V12 (640 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 32.3 l/100 km (7.3 US mpg, 8.7 UK mpg, 3.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 15 l/100 km (15.7 US mpg, 18.8 UK mpg, 6.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 21.3 l/100 km (11 US mpg, 13.3 UK mpg, 4.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 495 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 340 km/h (211.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 2.6 kg/Hp, 384.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.5 kg/Nm, 396.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 640 Hp @ 8000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 98.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 660 Nm @ 6000 rpm (486.79 lb.-ft. @ 6000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L537 |
| Engine displacement | 6496 cm3 (396.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 13.5 l (14.27 US qt | 11.88 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 15 l (15.85 US qt | 13.2 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1665 kg (3670.7 lbs.) |
| Length | 4700 mm (185.04 in.) |
| Width | 2058 mm (81.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2215 mm (87.2 in.) |
| Height | 1135 mm (44.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2665 mm (104.92 in.) |
| Front track | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1080 mm (42.52 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 955 mm (37.6 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.55 m (41.17 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 380×34 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 355×32 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/35 R18 Rear wheel tires: 335/30 R18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Reventon lies Lamborghini’s 6.5-liter V12 engine, designated the L537. This naturally aspirated powerplant, derived from the Murciélago’s engine, was tuned to produce 640 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 486.79 lb-ft of torque at 6,000 rpm. The engine features a 60-degree V-angle, four valves per cylinder, and double overhead camshafts (DOHC). Fuel is delivered via multi-port fuel injection, and the compression ratio is set at 11.2:1. The engine’s architecture is longitudinally mounted in the rear of the vehicle, powering all four wheels through a six-speed manual transmission. The exhaust system was specifically tuned to deliver a distinctive and aggressive sound, befitting the Reventon’s extreme character.
Driving Characteristics
The Reventon’s performance is nothing short of breathtaking. With its 640 horsepower and all-wheel-drive system, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 211.27 mph. The six-speed manual transmission provides precise and engaging gear changes, although the clutch requires significant effort. The all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction, even under hard acceleration. The Reventon’s suspension is firm, prioritizing handling and stability over ride comfort. While capable on the road, the Reventon is truly at home on a racetrack, where its immense power and precise handling can be fully exploited. Compared to the standard Murciélago, the Reventon offers a more focused and visceral driving experience, thanks to its increased power, improved aerodynamics, and more aggressive suspension tuning.
Equipment & Trim Levels
Given its limited production run and ultra-high price point, the Reventon was offered with a relatively limited range of options. The interior is dominated by high-quality materials, including carbon fiber, Alcantara, and leather. Standard features include power-adjustable seats, a premium audio system, and a navigation system. Customers could personalize their Reventon with a variety of bespoke options, including different interior color schemes and trim materials. The dashboard features a unique instrument cluster inspired by aviation instruments, further reinforcing the Reventon’s fighter jet aesthetic. Air conditioning and power windows were standard, but many other features considered commonplace in modern cars were omitted to save weight.
Chassis & Braking
The Reventon’s chassis is based on the Murciélago’s carbon fiber composite structure, providing exceptional rigidity and lightweight construction. The suspension features independent multi-link setups at both the front and rear, with transverse stabilizer bars to reduce body roll. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes with ABS, measuring 380×34 mm at the front and 355×32 mm at the rear. The braking system provides immense stopping power, capable of bringing the Reventon to a halt from high speeds with confidence. The car’s low weight and advanced suspension contribute to its exceptional handling and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lamborghini Reventon was universally praised by automotive critics for its stunning design, incredible performance, and exclusivity. Its high price tag – approximately $1.5 million – limited its appeal to a very select clientele. Compared to other supercars of the era, such as the Ferrari Enzo and the Porsche Carrera GT, the Reventon stood out for its aggressive styling and uncompromising performance. While its fuel economy was predictably poor (11 US mpg combined), this was not a primary concern for its target audience. The Reventon’s reliability was generally good, although maintenance costs were exceptionally high due to the complexity of its engine and the rarity of its parts.
Legacy
The Lamborghini Reventon remains a highly sought-after collector’s item. Its limited production run and iconic design ensure its continued desirability in the used car market. The Reventon’s influence can be seen in subsequent Lamborghini models, particularly in the Aventador, which adopted many of its design cues and technological advancements. The Reventon served as a crucial stepping stone in Lamborghini’s evolution, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive performance and design. Today, the Reventon is regarded as one of the most significant and visually striking supercars of the 21st century.
