Lamborghini Introduces Hardcore New Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni

by Noah Joseph (RSS feed)
Jul 3rd 2009 at 9:01AM

Lamborghinis are about as hard-core as sportscars can get, but hard as it may be to believe, even this exotic Italian automaker has been making concessions towards drivability and ease-of-use. All in the interest of faster lap times, of course, but some desire a more direct, bare-bones approach. And now Lamborghini has delivered just that with the limited-edition Valentino Balboni edition Gallardo.

Named after the company's legendary test driver, the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni does away with the all-wheel-drive system and e-gear clutchless transmission and replaces them with a classic rear-drive set-up and open-gate six-speed shifter. The removal of the heavy drivetrain saves significant weight off the car, delivering a more hard-core driving experience for the skilled enthusiast. The Balboni edition is visually distinguished by the white-and-gold stripe running up the hood, echoed inside with the white-trimmed interior, and the multi-spoke Scorpious wheels. Only 250 examples will be made, each individually signed and numbered, available in eight different colors and with a host of optional equipment. With prices starting below $220,000, it's actually less expensive than the $280k all-wheel-drive LP560-4, though we doubt that'll be the defining element for prospective buyers.

Tags: gallardo, lamborghini, Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni, LamborghiniGallardoLp550-2ValentinoBalboni, lp-550, valentino balboni, ValentinoBalboni