The Murcielago was the first new Lamborghini introduced since Audi bought the famous Italian supercar manufacturer in 1998. Up to that point, Lamborghini had been working hard developing a replacement for the ageing Diablo (which was introduced in 1990) which was supposedly to be called the Canto. From spy photography in the contemporary press, the car had very dramatic styling (by Zagato) including huge air intakes incorporated into the rear wings. New owners Audi thought the new car was not at all what they wanted in a Diablo replacement and ditched the Canto despite considerable development work already having been done on it. Audi did not like the Zagato styling, and so they employed Dutch designer Luc Donkerwolke to style what would become the Murcielago. Launched in 2002, the motoring press raved about the new supercar, which in addition to having fantastic performance was also well made and quite comfortable when compared to pre-Audi Lamborghinis. Perhaps the only criticisms initially heard were directed against the styling which was felt to be a bit too similar to the Diablo. However, it does have quite a distinctive look, just not as wildly different from the Diablo as the Canto would have been. Personally I think it is stunning looking!
Much of the mechanicals of the Canto were retained and incorporated into the new car, including the 6.2 litre V12 which powers the Murcielago. This engine produces 580bhp and 479 lb/ft of torque which enables the car to go from 0-60mph in just 3.8 seconds, and reach a top speed of 205mph. The power is put through a 6 speed gearbox and an advanced four wheel drive transmission which gives the Murcielago fantastic grip. Engine cooling air comes primarily through two large ducts located behind the doors. When the engine is cool these ducts remain flush with the bodywork, but when the engine heats up they extend automatically out from the body like a small pair of wings.
AUTOart have done a fine job in replicating the Murcielago. The orange paint job is very nice and the engine and interior look good. The superb wheels and disc brakes are perhaps the best feature on this model. The realistic finish on the brake discs is as good as it gets in 1:18th. The weakest area on this model is the doors and rear vents (which do open just like on the real car). Neither the doors or the vents will stay open without being held and have a loose wobbly action when opened. It subtracts from the overall quality feel of the model. Nonetheless, the AUTOart Murcielago is a great model for any collector who is a Lamborghini fan.
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