The Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 has been revealed. This Murciélago successor is set to be the new benchmark in the supercar world thanks to a new engine and gearbox combo and innovative carbon fibre monocoque construction. If you’re wondering, Aventador was the name of a bull that entered into battle in October 1993 at the Saragossa Arena, earning the ‘Trofeo de la Peña La Madroñera’ for its outstanding courage.
What’s under the dramatic skin of the Aventador is outstanding as well. There’s a completely new engine that’s ‘extremely powerful and high-revving’ but compact and lightweight at 235 kg. The 6.5-litre V12 pushes out 700 horses at 8,250 rpm, while maximum torque is 690 Nm at 5,500 rpm. Lambo says that the torque curve is ‘extremely well-rounded’ with ‘bull-like pulling power in every situation’. Acoustics is of course a main selling point as well.
Its partner in crime is the new 7-speed ISR transmission, designed for “the world’s most emotional gearshift feel”. Shift times for this single clutch ‘box are quick – 40% faster than the Gallardo’s e.gear and almost 50% less than a dual-clutch unit, says Lambo – thanks to the Independent Shifting Rod. Apparently, ISR has smaller dimensions than a manual gearbox. We’ve covered this new V12 and ISR transmission before – click here to read more.
Power is laid down on the tarmac via permanent all-wheel drive. A self-blocking rear differential together with a front differential electronically controlled by ESP contribute to dynamic handling. The Drive Select Mode System lets the driver choose vehicle characteristics (engine, transmission, differential, steering and dynamic control) from three settings – Strada (road), Sport and Corsa (track). Pushrod spring and damper suspension inspired by F1 and carbon ceramic brakes are in each corner.
The Aventador has a full monocoque made from carbon fibre, meaning that the entire occupant cell, with tub and roof, is one single physical component. This benefits rigidity, handling and safety. The entire CF monocoque weighs only 147.5 kg. Together with the front and rear aluminium frames, it weighs only 229.5 kg and torsional stiffness is an amazing 35,000 Nm per degree.
With all these weight trimming, Lambo’s new hero tips the scales at only 1,575 kg, which is really impressive. So with 700 horses pulling the weight of a Camry 2.0 plus me in it, 0-100 km/h acceleration is done in just 2.9 seconds. Push on and you’ll reach 350 km/h. Lambo points out that while performance and power is up by 8%, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are down by around 20% from the Murciélago.
The 4.78 m long, 2.26 m wide and 1.136 m tall (or rather short) Aventador continues the tradition introduced by the Countach by having upward opening doors. For more flash, opt for the transparent engine bonnet to show off that work of art, which we bet most buyers will.
The cabin is dominated by that high and wide centre tunnel, which has a red switch cover to enclose the start button. Switch aside, it looks very Audi. The instruments are presented on a TFT-LCD screen, while a second screen is dedicated to the standard-fit multimedia and navigation system. The cockpit looks quite technical for a Lamborghini.
