The Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni pays homage to the company's historic chief test driver, who after over 40 years is now officially retired, but continues to travel around the world as an ambassador of the brand.

Since 1973, Valentino Balboni has tested every prototype built by the brand, and most production cars have passed through his hands before being delivered to their customers.

With his fine-tuning and testing work he has had a distinct influence on the character of the brand's models.

This has turned him into one of the most important representatives of the brand, with an outstanding reputation and status among the brand’s fans and customers worldwide.

The Balboni model is the only current Lamborghini that features a rear wheel drive system.

The engine generates 405 kW (550 hp). Thanks to the weight limited to 1,380 kg, the LP 550-2 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62mph) in 3.9 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 320 km/h (199 mph).

The Gallardo LP 550-2 -where 550 stands for the power output in hp and the 2 is for rear wheel drive - will be produced in 250 units, with a projected price of 162,000 Euros (219.800 $), excluding taxes.

In addition to the transmission, modifications include springs, dampers, stabilisers and tires.

The aerodynamics were also adjusted to take account of the change to the power flow. The rear axle differential, with a 45 percent limited slip, was also redeveloped, as was the calibration of the e-gear transmission.

One significant point was the adjustments made to the ESP system. While the standard program is focused on high stability, the CORSA program permits greater drift angles.

In addition to the extensive standard equipment, a list of further options is available including e-gear transmission and carbon ceramic brakes.

Design

Its classic sporting character is emphasised by a colour strip in white and gold running from the front panel over the roof and parts of the engine cover all the way to the rear spoiler, with inspiration from the classic sports cars from the ‘70s.

This colour treatment underscores the powerful elegance of the Gallardo and emphasises the unique Lamborghini design DNA.

The Special Edition is available in eight colours, from Bianco Monocerus through to Verde Ithaca, or Arancio Borealis to Nero Noctis.

The Scorpius wheels retain their dark grey finish, while the brake callipers come in black, orange or yellow, depending on the exterior paint finish.

Interior

The characteristic colour combination is repeated in the interior. The basic colour of the full leather upholstery is black. Both seats, however, feature the colour strip in white.

The centre console is completely upholstered in Polar white leather. A badge below the left side window bears the signature of Valentino Balboni and the production number of the car.

New features include the transparent engine cover, the rear view camera, the navigation system with Bluetooth and the lifting system for the front axle that makes it easier to drive over obstacles.

About Valentino Balboni

Valentino Balboni was hired by Lamborghini in 1967.

"From early on, it was evident that the young Balboni had a special feel for cars, that most sensitive of all instincts that connects to the ‘life blood’ of an automobile and defines the soul of a test driver."

He was personally asked by the founder of the company Ferrucio Lamborghini to test drive the newly built cars. Together with Bob Wallace they became the test drivers of Lamborghini.

Valentino Balboni has reportedly driven about 80% of all Lamborghinis ever built and tested every prototype.

Today Balboni is an ambassador for Lamborghini, and he appears at different events like unveiling of new models.

(Source: Lamborghini)