Lamborghini Faqs

Decade after decade, generation after generation, Italys two finest sports car makers, Lamborghini and Ferrari, have battled it out for the title of the greatest supercar manufacturer on earth. While the two each have their heavy-hitters, Lamborghini recently expanded its lineup, launching the smaller, more affordable Gallardo, and the beautiful open-roofed Murcielago Speedster, further encroaching on Ferraris segments.

At the 2005 Geneva Motor Show, Ferrari launched the F430 Spider, the open-topped version of its newest model, the F430. It appears that Lamborghini is prepared to counter Ferraris move with its own junior-sized convertible, the Lamborghini Concept S.  Like many Lamborghini concepts, the Concept S is a product of the Centro Stile Lamborghini, located in SantAgata, the companys hometown.

In the hands of head stylist Luc Donckerwolke, the aluminum-intensive Gallardo was transformed into this wild, one-of-a-kind speed machine. Given the utmost freedom to work, shape and create, the final product reflects his extreme interpretation of what an open-roofed car should look like.  Compared to the companys previous concept car, the unnamed Murcielago-based Roadster of 2003, Donckerwolkes latest work is by far wilder. Taking into account the designs of classic, single-seat racers, and the growing popularity of the Gallardo, the S shows a new, eye-popping styling theme.

As with early GT racers, the Concept S doesnt have a regular windshield. Instead, there are two wraparound saut-vent (French for sudden change in wind) fairings separated by an electrically retractable rear-view mirror. These stylish wind-blockers split the cockpit into two, and follow the Gallardos sleek lines, tracing back to the cars rear flanks. This is one of the key elements to the concepts futuristic and aggressive look.

Though the Concept S is beautiful, its unique design did not put form ahead of function. Starting at its nose, and wedged between the split fairing, is a body-long scoop which funnels air to a duct for the 500-horsepower V10 engine. The chiseled channel continues to the cars tail, acting as an inset spoiler, improving the cars aerodynamics and downforce at higher speeds.

To help differentiate the Concept S from the Gallardo, there are a few minor changes to the cars front and rear bumpers. Added to the angular honeycomb-pattern twin offset grilles is a new central intake, while the rear of the car features wider black mesh vents and flush mounted tail pipes. The front spoiler and reshaped rear diffuser work in sync with the new spoiler to optimize high-speed aerodynamics. A different take on the traditional porthole wheels rounds out the additions to the Concept S.