The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2, produced from 2009 to 2013, represents a significant evolution within the first generation Gallardo (2003-2013) lineup. Positioned as a performance-focused variant, the LP 550-2 aimed to deliver a more engaging driving experience through a rear-wheel-drive configuration and a refined version of Lamborghini’s iconic V10 engine. It served as a bridge between the standard Gallardo and the more extreme Superleggera models, appealing to drivers seeking a pure, visceral connection to the road. The “550-2” designation refers to the engine’s power output (550 metric horsepower) and the drivetrain configuration (2-wheel drive, meaning rear-wheel drive).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lamborghini |
| Model | Gallardo |
| Generation | Gallardo LP 550-2 |
| Type (Engine) | 5.2 V10 (551 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 22 l/100 km (10.7 US mpg, 12.8 UK mpg, 4.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg, 28.2 UK mpg, 10 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.4 l/100 km (16.3 US mpg, 19.6 UK mpg, 6.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 341 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 320 km/h (198.84 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 2.6 kg/Hp, 378.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 371.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 551 Hp @ 8000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 105.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 540 Nm @ 6500 rpm (398.28 lb.-ft. @ 6500 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | CEH |
| Engine displacement | 5204 cm3 (317.57 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 10 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 21 l (22.19 US qt | 18.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1455 kg (3207.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Max load | 345 kg (760.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 110 l (3.88 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 4345 mm (171.06 in.) |
| Width | 1900 mm (74.8 in.) |
| Height | 1165 mm (45.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2560 mm (100.79 in.) |
| Front track | 1632 mm (64.25 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1597 mm (62.87 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 235/35 R19; 295/30 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 19; 11J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the LP 550-2 lies Lamborghini’s 5.2-liter naturally aspirated V10 engine, designated the CEH code. This engine is a direct descendant of the unit first introduced in the Audi R8 and subsequently refined for Lamborghini applications. The LP 550-2’s version produced 551 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 398 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm. A key feature is its direct fuel injection system, which optimizes combustion efficiency and contributes to the engine’s responsive power delivery. The engine utilizes a 12.5:1 compression ratio and four valves per cylinder, enhancing its breathing and overall performance. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, a deliberate choice to emphasize driver engagement. Unlike some Gallardo variants that offered the optional e.gear automated manual transmission, the LP 550-2 exclusively featured the traditional manual gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The rear-wheel-drive configuration of the LP 550-2 fundamentally alters its driving dynamics compared to the all-wheel-drive Gallardo. The removal of the front driveshafts reduces weight and contributes to a more agile and playful chassis. While the all-wheel-drive Gallardo offers immense grip and stability, the LP 550-2 demands more skill and precision from the driver. It’s more prone to oversteer, making it a rewarding experience for experienced drivers on a track or winding roads. The six-speed manual transmission provides precise gear changes, allowing the driver to fully exploit the V10’s powerband. The gear ratios are tuned for acceleration, with shorter ratios in the lower gears providing strong off-the-line performance. Compared to the higher-output Gallardo Superleggera, the LP 550-2 offers a slightly more manageable power delivery, making it less intimidating for everyday driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The LP 550-2 was generally well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium sports car. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, a premium audio system, and climate control. Lamborghini offered a wide range of customization options, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles with different interior colors, trim materials, and exterior finishes. Optional extras included carbon fiber interior trim, upgraded navigation systems, and performance-enhancing features like a sports exhaust system. The interior design retained the angular, driver-focused aesthetic characteristic of the Gallardo, with a prominent center console and aluminum accents.
Chassis & Braking
The Gallardo LP 550-2 utilizes a lightweight aluminum space frame chassis, providing a rigid and strong foundation for the vehicle. The suspension consists of double wishbones with coil springs and adjustable dampers. The rear-wheel-drive configuration necessitated some adjustments to the suspension setup to optimize handling balance. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The LP 550-2 features an advanced anti-lock braking system (ABS) to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking. The car’s relatively low weight (1455 kg / 3207.73 lbs) contributes to its agile handling and responsive braking performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its engaging driving dynamics and refined V10 engine. The rear-wheel-drive configuration was seen as a welcome return to a more traditional sports car layout. Compared to the all-wheel-drive Gallardo, the LP 550-2 offered a more visceral and rewarding driving experience, albeit with a slightly higher degree of difficulty. Fuel economy, unsurprisingly, was not a strong point, with combined fuel consumption rated at 16.3 US mpg. However, this was typical for a high-performance sports car of its era. Reliability was generally good, although maintenance costs remained high, as expected for a Lamborghini.
Legacy
The Gallardo LP 550-2 holds a special place in Lamborghini’s history as a purist’s sports car. Its rear-wheel-drive configuration and manual transmission appealed to drivers who valued driver engagement above all else. Today, the LP 550-2 is a sought-after model on the used car market, particularly among collectors and enthusiasts. The 5.2-liter V10 engine has proven to be remarkably durable, and well-maintained examples continue to provide exhilarating performance. While maintenance costs can be substantial, the LP 550-2 offers a unique and rewarding driving experience that few other cars can match. Its legacy as a driver-focused supercar ensures its continued desirability for years to come.
