The Gallardo is a performance monster, too. The V-10 500-horse engine rockets from 0 to 60 in 4.2 seconds (paddle shifters, operated with the tap of a finger, move you quickly through its six gears). But like all true sports cars with great handling, the Gallardo has a brutal ride, and you feel every pothole.
I was impressed with the car’s manly interior: a leather-sheathed dashboard and instrument panel, and surprisingly comfy racing-inspired seats. The steering wheel also has thumb indentations that positioned my hands for race-ready driving in the 9-to-3 configuration. Since Lamborghini is now owned by Volkswagen/Audi, some interior features look decidedly Audiesque–I like the deep-red digital readouts but hate the inferior audio system. Of course, with the massive baritone V-10 engine roaring a few inches from the back of my head, I was captivated by a different kind of music.
Tip: With just 1,000 being built for 2004, expect a wait despite its steep price.
