The Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 Roadster, produced from 2006 to 2010, represented a significant evolution of Lamborghini’s flagship V12 model. Building upon the original Murciélago introduced in 2001, the LP640 Roadster offered increased power, revised styling, and the open-air experience of a convertible. It sat at the pinnacle of Lamborghini’s lineup during its production run, appealing to buyers seeking extreme performance and exclusivity. The “LP640” designation refers to the engine’s increased power output of 640 metric horsepower, a substantial jump from the earlier Murciélago models. It was part of the first generation Murciélago (EB110 platform).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lamborghini |
| Model | Murcielago |
| Generation | Murcielago LP640 Roadster |
| Type (Engine) | 6.5 V12 (640 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Roadster |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 32.3 l/100 km (7.3 US mpg, 8.7 UK mpg, 3.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 15 l/100 km (15.7 US mpg, 18.8 UK mpg, 6.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (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 | 3.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 330 km/h (205.05 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 2.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 640 Hp @ 8000 rpm |
| Torque | 660 Nm @ 6000 rpm (486.79 lb.-ft. @ 6000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Middle, 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 | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 13.5 l (14.27 US qt, 11.88 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 15 l (15.85 US qt, 13.2 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 310 kg (683.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 150 l (5.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal, 22 UK gal) |
| Length | 4610 mm (181.5 in.) |
| Width | 2058 mm (81.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2240 mm (88.19 in.) |
| Height | 1132-1135 mm (44.57 – 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 | 1035 mm (40.75 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 910 mm (35.83 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.55 m (41.17 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Type of gearbox | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| 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) | 245/35 ZR 18 |
| Tires size (Rear) | 335/30 ZR 18 |
| Wheel rims size (Front) | 8.5 J x 18 |
| Wheel rims size (Rear) | 13 J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the LP640 Roadster is Lamborghini’s 6.5-liter V12 engine, designated the L537. This engine is naturally aspirated and produces 640 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 660 Nm (486.79 lb-ft) of torque at 6,000 rpm. The engine features a 65-degree V-angle, four valves per cylinder, and double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with variable valve timing (VVT). Fuel is delivered via a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine’s architecture is a mid-engine, longitudinal layout, contributing to the car’s balanced handling. The LP640 utilized a six-speed manual transmission, sending power to all four wheels. The all-wheel-drive system employs a viscous coupling to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, providing enhanced traction and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The LP640 Roadster delivers a visceral and exhilarating driving experience. The 6.5-liter V12 provides immense power throughout the rev range, with a particularly strong surge at higher RPMs. Acceleration is breathtaking, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 205 mph. The manual transmission requires a skilled driver to extract the most performance, but offers a direct and engaging connection to the powertrain. Compared to potential future automated manual transmissions, the LP640’s manual gearbox provides a more raw and involving driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent grip and stability, even in challenging conditions. However, the car’s size and weight can make it feel less nimble than smaller sports cars.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The LP640 Roadster was a highly equipped vehicle, reflecting its status as a flagship model. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, air conditioning, a premium audio system, and a power-retractable soft top. Optional extras included carbon fiber interior trim, upgraded audio systems, and custom paint finishes. The interior design was focused on providing a luxurious and driver-focused environment, with a prominent center console and aluminum accents. The Roadster version, naturally, featured a manually operated soft top, adding to the open-air driving experience.
Chassis & Braking
The LP640 Roadster features a lightweight aluminum chassis, contributing to its relatively low weight of 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs). The suspension consists of double wishbones with coil springs and transverse stabilizers at both the front and rear. This setup provides a firm but controlled ride, minimizing body roll during cornering. The braking system utilizes ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, with large 380mm front rotors and 355mm rear rotors. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 Roadster was widely praised by automotive critics for its stunning performance, dramatic styling, and luxurious interior. However, its high price and relatively poor fuel economy (21.3 l/100 km combined) were noted drawbacks. Compared to the standard Murciélago, the LP640 offered a significant power increase and revised styling. It also commanded a higher price tag. Compared to other supercars of the era, such as the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, the LP640 Roadster offered a more aggressive and flamboyant design, as well as a more visceral driving experience.
Legacy
The Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 Roadster remains a highly sought-after supercar among collectors and enthusiasts. The L537 V12 engine is known for its reliability, provided it is properly maintained. Regular servicing and attention to detail are essential to ensure the longevity of this complex powertrain. Today, the LP640 Roadster represents a significant chapter in Lamborghini’s history, showcasing the brand’s commitment to extreme performance and uncompromising design. Its values in the used car market have remained strong, reflecting its desirability and limited production numbers.
