When it comes to extreme supercars, few can compete with Lamborghini. So when the Italian icon produces a range-topper, you can expect something spectacular - and that's exactly what the Murcielago is. With eye-popping styling, neck-snapping performance and wallet-wilting running costs, owning a Murcielago is an extreme experience that's not for the faint-hearted. But if you've got the funds, why wouldn't you?
Key Dates
3/02: The Murcielago coupé arrives in the UK, with a 571bhp 6192cc V12.
11/03: The 40th Anniversary goes on sale; 50 are made with cosmetic changes only. The e-gear is also introduced with an electro-hydraulic gear change.
7/04: The Murcielago Roadster debuts, mechanically identical to the coupé.
5/05: There are now stronger brakes and redesigned wheels.
3/06: Carbon-ceramic brakes are now an £8000 option, and the LP640 is announced, with a 640bhp 6496cc V12.
9/06: The Murcielago Versace goes on sale.
3/09: The 650bhp LP650-4 Roadster appears, along with the 670bhp LP670-4 SuperVeloce coupé.
Checklist
- The anti-roll bar bushes perish, leading to knocking noises. Fresh bushes are cheap and easy to DIY fit.
- Tyres and brakes are hugely costly to replace, so make sure there's plenty of wear left in them.
- Wheels get kerbed easily and are phenomenally costly to replace; if they're magnesium, they can't be repaired, only replaced. Be careful of aftermarket rims; they can cause endless issues.
- Misfiring can be caused by faulty coil packs or lambda sensors, along with incorrect spark plugs being fitted.
- If the engine hunts, it's probably down to a throttle body that's out of adjustment.
- The door locks play up when the striker plates go out of adjustment or damp gets into the electrics.
We Like
- Performance
- Handling
- Exclusivity
- Design
- Cabin
- Sound
We Don't Like
- Running costs