First look: Lambo’s meaner Murcie roadster

FRESH from revealing its piping-hot, lightweight Murcielago LP670-4 SuperVeloce coupe at the Geneva motor show, Lamborghini has released details and images of its wildest Murcielago Roadster, the limited-edition LP650-4.

As the name suggests, the newest topless Murcie is powered by an upgraded version of the Italian supercar-maker’s 6.5-litre V12, this time producing 650 metric horsepower or 478kW – up from the standard engine’s 471kW.

As with the 493kW 670-4 SuperVeloce coupe, the LP650-4 Roadster’s peak torque remains unchanged at 660Nm. Lamborghini says the 650hp V12 will be unique to the roadster.

Mated as standard to a permanent all-wheel-drive system, the tweaked V12 is good for 0-100km/h acceleration of 3.4 seconds in Lamborghini’s quickest roadster, putting it within two-tenths of the quickest Murcielago coupe – 350 examples of which will be built.

Global production of the LP650-4, which has an official top speed of 330km/h, will be limited to just 50, each wearing grey bodywork and a special bright orange ‘Arancio LP650-4’ badge on their front spoiler and sills.

Other unique features include orange brake callipers and a transparent engine cover to display the upgraded V12 engine. The grey/orange exterior theme is echoed inside, where an asymmetric dashboard design features black Alcantara Nera on the driver's side and black Nero Perseus leather on the passenger's side.