2008 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

The 1974 launch of the Lamborghini Countach was, without doubt, a turning point in sportscar design. One of the first to be replicated by any schoolboy with a ruler, it became a poster car for a generation. The car's 'flying wedge' design, with a sloping snout that appeared to descend directly from the windscreen, and innovative 'scissor doors' was pure automotive drama. Compared to its curvaceous rivals, the Countach was a razor blade in a drawer full of spoons and influenced the looks of every Lamborghini that followed.

The purchase by Audi of Lamborghini in 1998 secured the marque’s future into the next millennium, and whilst the Murcielago became the company’s flagship supercar, the 2003 launch of the more approachable, mid-engined Gallardo marked Audi’s engineering and technical input with the new model proving the most usable and reliable to ever leave the Sant'Agata factory. Named after a famous breed of fighting bull, production ended in 2013, and it was the most successful model in the history of the company with just over 14,000 finding homes.

The arrival of the LP560-4 (560PS and four-wheel drive) in 2008 was a serious evolutionary step forward for the Gallardo, with sharper design elements incorporated to enhance the striking coachwork whilst retaining the signature purity of line. It was powered by a new, uneven firing and more economical 5.2-litre V10 engine featuring direct fuel injection and producing 552bhp. At the same time the E-gear was revised to offer a Corsa mode making gear changes 40% quicker than before and also reduced the amount of traction control intervention. A 'Thrust Mode' launch control system was added also. Some 20kg lighter than its predecessor, the LP560-4 offered 0-62mph in 3.7 seconds on its way to a top speed of 202mph. The interior was pure Lamborghini, retaining the heritage of hand-stitched leather and simplicity of design. Compared to its rival, the Ferrari F430, the Gallardo’s cabin is a well thought out combination of elegance, luxury and simplicity.

Finished in a stunning shade of Arancio Borealis, this UK-spec LP560-4 was supplied new on the 7th November 2008 to its first and only registered keeper, a Mr Smith, who has travelled less than 1,830 miles in the car. As expected, the exterior remains in excellent condition and the interior retains that addictive ‘new car’ smell. The accompanying main dealer service history will be added to with a fresh service by Lamborghini Bristol in readiness for the sale and the car is presented to auction with handbooks, service book, its V5C and a recently issued MOT Certificate.

With only a handful of such cars delivered to the UK and, having the distinction of being one of the lowest mileage examples currently on the market, we conclude that this sparkling Gallardo Coupé offers significant value for money against later models, and we welcome and encourage you to take the opportunity to view this special motor car and appreciate the quality on offer.