Lamborghini recently announced that it has stopped production of its iconic sports car, Gallardo. For a number of die-hard fans, it was a sad occasion, marking the end of a famous name that they had loved for a so many years. There are only a few models in the luxury car segment that can boast of the popularity of Lamborghini Gallardo. This model, first showcased at 2003 Geneva Motor Show, according to experts, shall always remain in the hearts of sports car aficionados. Named after a famous breed of fighting bull, Gallardo, remains as the sales leader for Lamborghini. According to statistics, the company has manufactured 14022 units of this model till now. Even though Gallardo did not have the prowess of others like Miura, Countach or Murcielago, it managed to create a league of its own in the entry-level segment for Lamborghini. As the most prolific car from Lamborghini has been discontinued, many analysts have recalled its entire journey.
In 2003, the first generation Gallardo was manufactured with a 5-litre V10 engine that produced 500 bhp worth of power. In that version Lamborghini gave two transmission choices that included a six-speed manual and an advanced six-speed electro-hydraulically controlled gearbox, commonly known as E-gear. The designing of the vehicle was done by Italdesign Giugiaro and was based on the 1995 Cala prototype.
After that, in 2005, Gallardo received upgrades in exhaust system, suspension and power departments. With advancements made in these aspects, the handling and power levels were improved. The most significant change in Gallardo was given in 2006 when it got the Spyder version. Lamborghini called the new model by an entirely different name as it got a 520 bhp engine with a lower ratio six-speed manual transmission. Also to mention, the soft top was fully retractable, which was first of its kind feature in Gallardo.
The second generation of Gallardo series was displayed at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show in which the company presented a refreshed design of the sports car based on Murciélago and Reventon. It was powered by the new 5.2-litre V10 engine that produced 552 bhp of power and 540 Nm of torque. In that, Lamborghini made several changes so as to improve upon the fuel efficiency and emissions by giving a direct fuel injection system.
In all, a total of 32 models were manufactured under the Gallardo series with each having a distinct identity. Out of all models, performance-oriented cars were Super Trofeo Stradale and Gallardo Squadra Corse. The latter, in particular, was outstanding in terms of performance as it clocked the best-in-class lap at Hockenheim, Germany. In Gallardo LP 570-4 Squadra Corse, Lamborghini decreased the kerb weight of the car by 70 kg. Owing to the reduced weight and stunning power to weight ratio, the car delivered a strong performance, reaching 100 kmph from scratch in just 3.4 seconds.
During the whole decade of production, Gallardo was offered in many special versions that also included a Polizia Stradale edition in which blue lights, exclusive paintwork and dedicated equipment were provided. The most iconic of car of Lamborghini was sold in over 45 countries across different parts of the globe. Gallardo, for many, will clearly rank higher as far as cars with V10 engines are concerned. Displaying true Italian style, Lamborghini gave customers every bit of choice in personalising the vehicles as per their preferences, something that added to its popularity.
