With 552 hp, a body to die for, and a 0–60 time of 3.2 seconds, the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 has little room for improvement. But there is room for variation, and perhaps the most significant is the new Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni. Limited to just 250 units worldwide, the LP550-2 Valentino Balboni is named after Lamborghini’s esteemed test driver, who was hired by Ferruccio Lamborghini himself in 1967, and who has been instrumental in developing the dynamic attributes of every Lamborghini model introduced since 1973.

First Rear-Wheel-Drive Lambo Since the Diablo

Fittingly, Lamborghini honored Balboni by dialing up the excitement factor of what is already a pretty exciting car. Those familiar with Lambo’s naming practice, which combines a car’s metric horsepower and its number of driven wheels, have probably figured out the LP550-2’s biggest news: rear-wheel drive replaces the standard Gallardo’s four-wheel drive. Yes, the name also tells us that the LP550-2 Valentino Balboni is down 10 hp compared with the LP560-4 (542 versus 552 at 8000 rpm). But with just 3042 pounds of mass to propel—265 fewer than the LP560-4—the lost ponies aren’t likely to be missed. Torque remains the same at 398 lb-ft at 6500 rpm.

With just two wheels tasked with putting all that power to good use, finding adequate traction may be a challenge, which is perhaps why Lamborghini is quoting what seems like a conservative 0–60 time of 3.9 seconds for the LP550-2. But this car seems to be less about going quicker than imparting a friskier, tail-happier character to the Gallardo. After all, there are many drivers—and we suspect that Balboni is among them—who enjoy the particular thrill found only in supercars that feed power only to the rear wheels. The Gallardo’s transmission has been relocated to the back in the LP550-2, resulting in a 43/57 front-to-rear weight distribution. A 45-percent limited-slip differential has also been fitted, as have bespoke springs, dampers, anti-roll bars, and tires.

Distinct Regalia

The LP550-2 Valentino Balboni will be available starting in September and only as a coupe. All examples, regardless of color, will have a white-and-gold stripe running down the center of the car. Dark gray wheels conceal one of three coordinated brake caliper colors. The cabin features swaths of black leather and contrasting white details, as well as an all-white center console. Now officially retired, Balboni travels the world as a “Lamborghini brand ambassador.” Tough gig, Mr. Balboni, but now you have one fewer excuse for being late for your personal appearances.

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