Lamborghini Murcielago LP640
The Lamborghini Murcielago was the first Lamborghini developed under Audi/Volkswagen Group ownership, and it showed — the quality, reliability, and refinement were leagues ahead of the Diablo while retaining the raw, dramatic character that made Lamborghini special.
The LP640 (2006-10) was the ultimate evolution of the Murcielago line. Its 6.5-liter V12, producing 640 hp at a screaming 8,000 RPM, was the most powerful naturally aspirated Lamborghini V12 ever fitted to a production car. The engine's character was pure Lamborghini — brutal, theatrical, and spine-tingling, with a mechanical howl that built to a crescendo near redline.
The Murcielago continued the Lamborghini tradition of scissor doors, dramatic proportions, and intimidating road presence. The LP640 update added revised aerodynamics with larger air intakes, a new rear diffuser, and a glass engine cover that showcased the magnificent V12. The interior was modernized with better materials and a proper infotainment system.
All-wheel drive was standard, providing prodigious traction in all conditions. The viscous coupling center differential sent 70% of torque to the rear wheels normally, distributing more to the front when slip was detected. This gave the Murcielago a more accessible handling character than its predecessors — you could explore its performance without the same level of talent required by a Countach or Diablo.
Crucially, the Murcielago was available with a proper 6-speed manual gearbox — the last flagship Lamborghini to offer a manual. The alternative e-gear automated manual was quicker but less engaging. Manual cars are now significantly more valuable than e-gear equivalents.
The LP670-4 SV (Super Veloce) was the hardcore swan-song — 670 hp, 100 kg lighter, limited to 350 units. With its fixed rear wing and stripped-out character, it was the Murcielago's equivalent of the Countach 5000 QV.
The Murcielago is the last manual-gearbox flagship Lamborghini — manual cars command a 20-40% premium over e-gear. Key checks: e-gear hydraulic system (if equipped — actuators, pump, and clutch wear are expensive), V12 engine oil consumption (should be under 1 qt/1,000 miles), carbon-ceramic brake condition, and catalytic converter damage (low ground clearance). Maintenance costs are high but predictable — budget $5,000-$10,000 annually. The LP670-4 SV is the collector's choice. Service by a Lamborghini specialist is essential — the V12 is complex and Audi-era electronics require proper diagnostic equipment.
Total Murcielago production (all variants, 2001-10): approximately 4,099. Murcielago 6.2L (2001-06): ~2,500. LP640 (2006-10): ~1,300. LP670-4 SV: 350 (186 coupes, 50 roadsters, plus Chinese special editions). Roadster variants available for both pre-LP640 and LP640. The SV is the rarest and most valuable standard Murcielago.