The history of the “small” Lamborghini with a huge impact
Sant’Agata Bolognese, July 20, 2023: The Gallardo, which was introduced at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show, was the first Lamborghini production car with a V10 engine. It quickly became a commercial success for Lamborghini, setting numerous sales records. As the Gallardo celebrates its twentieth anniversary, Automobili Lamborghini looks back at the history of this iconic “baby Lambo”.
In the 1970s, Ferruccio Lamborghini recognized the demand for a smaller and more affordable Lamborghini. This led to the development of the Urraco, which later evolved into the Jalpa in the 1980s.
In 1987, Lamborghini began work on the L140 project, aimed at creating a more compact Lamborghini. Several prototypes were developed over the years, exploring various technical solutions including a V8 and later a V10 engine.
In 1998, Lamborghini decided to start fresh and develop a completely new car with a 10-cylinder engine. The development of the engine was led by engineers Massimo Ceccarani and Maurizio Reggiani. The engine featured a 90-degree V10 configuration with 5 liters of displacement and delivered 500 horsepower.
The first Gallardo also featured a 6-speed manual or robotized sequential gearbox and Lamborghini’s all-wheel drive system. The chassis was made from aluminum and the design of the car was inspired by aeronautics, with a focus on aerodynamics.
Throughout its production, the Gallardo underwent several updates and special editions. In 2005, the Gallardo Spyder was introduced with a new soft-top opening system. In 2007, the Gallardo Superleggera was unveiled, featuring a weight reduction and increased power. In 2008, the LP 560-4 version was introduced, followed by the LP 560-4 Spyder. In 2009, the Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni was released, featuring rear-wheel drive. In 2010, the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera, LP 570-4 Spyder Performante, and LP 570-4 Blancpain Edition were introduced.
In 2012, updated versions of the Gallardo were presented, including the Gallardo LP 560-4 and Gallardo LP 570-4 Edizione Tecnica. In 2013, Lamborghini announced the development of a GT3 program based on the Gallardo MY13, and introduced the Gallardo LP 570-4 Squadra Corse, inspired by the Gallardo Super Trofeo race car.
On November 25, 2013, the last Lamborghini Gallardo rolled off the production line. Over the course of its production, the Gallardo achieved significant success, with a total of 14,022 units produced and sold in 45 countries.
The Lamborghini Gallardo has left an indelible mark on the world of super sports cars, solidifying its place among the icons of Italian design and automotive engineering.