2011-2012 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale 5.2 (570 Hp) AWD E-Gear

The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale, produced from 2011 to 2012, represents the highest-performance, street-legal iteration of the first-generation Gallardo. Built as a homologation special for the Super Trofeo racing series, the Stradale brought race-derived technology and aggressive styling to a limited production run. Positioned at the very top of the Gallardo range, it superseded the already potent LP 560-4 and served as a precursor to the subsequent Gallardo facelift models. The “570-4” designation refers to the engine’s 570 horsepower output and the all-wheel-drive system (“4” signifying four-wheel drive). It was a final, focused expression of Lamborghini’s V10 formula before the introduction of the next-generation Huracán.

Technical Specifications

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

At the heart of the LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale lies Lamborghini’s naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine, designated the CEH code. This engine is a direct descendant of the unit first introduced in the Gallardo, but significantly upgraded for the Stradale. Key improvements included revised intake and exhaust systems, optimized valve timing, and a higher compression ratio (12.5:1) contributing to the increased power output of 570 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 398 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection, maximizing combustion efficiency and responsiveness. The valvetrain employs double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, ensuring optimal gas flow. The E-Gear automated manual transmission, a six-speed unit, was standard. This transmission, while technically an automated manual, offered quicker shifts than a traditional manual gearbox, particularly in the ‘Corsa’ mode optimized for track use. The all-wheel-drive system utilizes a viscous coupling to distribute power between the front and rear axles, providing enhanced traction and stability.

Driving Characteristics

The LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale delivers a visceral and engaging driving experience. The increased power output, combined with the lighter weight (achieved through extensive use of carbon fiber), results in blistering acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 198.84 mph. The E-Gear transmission, while quick, can be somewhat jerky at low speeds, making it less comfortable for everyday driving compared to a conventional automatic. The suspension is firm, prioritizing handling precision over ride comfort. The steering is direct and communicative, providing excellent feedback to the driver. Compared to the standard Gallardo LP 560-4, the Stradale feels significantly more focused and responsive, particularly in corners. The manual transmission equipped Gallardo models offered a more direct connection for the driver, but the E-Gear’s speed was a significant advantage on the track.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Super Trofeo Stradale was exceptionally well-equipped, reflecting its premium positioning. Standard features included a carbon fiber rear wing, carbon ceramic brakes, a racing-style interior with heavily bolstered sport seats, and a navigation system. The interior was trimmed extensively with Alcantara and leather. Optional extras included a lifting system to raise the front axle for navigating speed bumps, a fire extinguisher, and a telemetry system for recording lap times. The color palette was also more exclusive, with a range of vibrant and aggressive exterior colors available.

Chassis & Braking

The chassis of the LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale was heavily revised compared to the standard Gallardo. Extensive use of carbon fiber in the body panels, rear wing, and interior trim resulted in a significant weight reduction. The suspension featured stiffer springs and dampers, along with revised anti-roll bars, further enhancing handling performance. The braking system utilized carbon ceramic discs, providing exceptional stopping power and resistance to fade. The Stradale retained the Gallardo’s aluminum space frame construction, providing a rigid and lightweight platform. The rear brakes were ventilated discs, providing ample stopping power.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale was widely praised by automotive journalists for its exceptional performance, aggressive styling, and track-focused character. Critics noted its uncompromising ride quality and the E-Gear transmission’s occasional quirks, but these were generally accepted as trade-offs for the car’s overall performance capabilities. Compared to the LP 560-4, the Stradale offered a more engaging and rewarding driving experience, albeit at a higher price point. Fuel economy, unsurprisingly, was poor – around 17.4 US mpg combined – but this was not a primary concern for buyers of this type of vehicle. The Stradale’s reliability was generally good, although maintenance costs were high, as with all Lamborghinis.

Legacy

The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale remains a highly sought-after collector’s item. Its limited production run and exceptional performance have ensured its enduring appeal. The powertrain, while demanding in terms of maintenance, has proven to be relatively robust when properly cared for. Today, the Stradale represents a pinnacle of the first-generation Gallardo’s development, offering a unique blend of performance, exclusivity, and Italian flair. It stands as a testament to Lamborghini’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering and design.