Fireworks With Gallardo Fawkes
Thanks to those lovely people at Ecurie25 I spent the weekend with their Lamborghini Gallardo. A very yellow Gallardo.
I’m sure most enthusiasts are familiar with the bare facts and figures for the car, so here are some of my driving impressions and thoughts. Most importantly it was stunning, and for some reason exceeded my expectations in terms of driving dynamics and enjoyment.
First off there’s that engine whirring away behind your left ear: a gentle whining at low revs that hints at superbly orchestrated meshed mechanical components gently sucking through an intake. This is overlain by a faint exhaust growl which rapidly grows to a full on bark as the motor spins unhindered past 8K to it’s redline - a glorious reminder of the joys of normal aspiration. And yes, I did have to drive through the narrow walled streets of Petworth. In first gear. As fast as conditions would allow. With the window down.
Make no mistake: this is a searingly quick way to travel, and not only in a straight line. As one might expect traction and grip on dry roads are phenomenal, and only with some early evening dampness could the traction control be brought into play by fierce acceleration. The handling inspires confidence, with sufficient feedback through the weighty steering to let the driver know what is going on. This is a manual car with all the joys that click-clacking through the metal gear lever gates brings; the change requires a decisive and forceful thrust to engage (especially when cold) and the ratios seem pretty well judged, although for most driving within posted limits you will rarely go north of fourth gear - mainly to continue to sample the aural delights behind. The torque on tap means that acceleration isn’t an issue, regardless of cog.
Baby of the Lambo range this might be, but it is still universally admired and a rare sight to behold. They have managed to engineer a practical supercar (oxymorons aside) with light controls, impeccable manners (a two hour slog through jam-infested London proving no problem) and a sharp, functional interior. Of course the smug feeling of exclusivity does take a momentary break when confronted with an approaching Lamborghini Murcielago (in identical yellow), only to be replaced with petrolhead comradery as flashes and waves are exchanged.
So, any downsides? Well don’t expect to travel with much luggage - the storage space is tiny (but large enough to have Noble owners rejoicing). I also found that the lack of footrest for my clutch foot wasn’t ideal.
These issues pale into insignificance once the delight is sampled though - the Gallardo is never going to have the nimbleness of a lightweight rear wheel drive sportscar, but makes a fine case for itself as a blisteringly quick, stunning looking, useable supercar. If you get the chance to sample one I urge you to do so.
