FINE Magazine / April 2011 / Bull Riding

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Bull Riding

lamborghini aventador

Their reputation as a high performance racing car definitely precedes their very existence; not to the mention their status as an engineering masterpiece in a league of their own. When one understands the essence and artistry that makes this machine a living legend, it is no longer a simple luxury toy, but a prize for the most discriminating auto enthusiasts.
Lamborghini is not for everyone; the Bull demands respect for every inch of its engineering. Before owning one, drivers must truly understand why this fine motorcar is a living legend. Lamborghini is the kind of car one learns to appreciate before taking to the driver’s seat and shifting the first gear. What sets the Lamborghini apart and makes it such a highly sought after vehicle for collectors and drivers is style, performance and elegance.
Ferruccio Lamborghini founded the Italian company in 1963 with the intention of producing a refined grand touring motorcar. A successful manufacturing magnate, Lamborghini was motivated to create the perfect model that he felt no one could build for him. He believed that a grand touring car should have the features and appointments he could not find in other high performance Italian and European brands. He wanted to build a high performance car without compromising power, performance, ride quality and interior design. In 1966, Lamborghini gained wide acclaim for the Miura sports coupe. Miura established the mid-engine design as the standard layout for high-performance cars at that time.
A Lamborghini is not for the timid driver. If the goal is to simply get from point A to point B, buy a mid-size sedan. This is a true peddle-to-the-metal driving experience; one that elicits private instruction for 100 mph-plus driving on a closed course – resulting in an ever-present appreciation for why a Lamborghini is a collectable, not a purchase. Since 1966, the following top five models continue to reign in any discussion involving luxury sports cars.

MUIRA
As the epitome of mid-engine high performance cars, the Muria was only produced for a period of six years; only 475 of these models were ever made. It holds a top speed of 180 mph, with a 12 cylinder engine. Two additional versions, the S 140 and the SV 150, were crafted as powerful, sleek grand touring motorcars meant for long distant driving.

ESPADA
Espada, meaning a type of bullfighting sword in Spanish, was brought to life between 1968 and 1978; it was said that Ferruccio Lamborghini was fascinated with bulls and bull fighting. With a top speed of around 152 mph, drivers are afforded speed and performance, as well as the privilege of owning a Lamborghini. There were three different series: the S1 (1968-1970), S2 (1970-1972) and S3 (1972-1978).

COUNTACH
Probably the best known of all Lamborghini models, the Countach, another mid-engine sports car, continues to dazzle anyone who happens to see one; more than 2,000 were produced from 1974-1990. Over the years, it has been called the ‘sexiest’ and ‘top’ motorcar since its debut. The wedge-shaped design and angled look established Lamborghini as a classic forever. And while the design has been replicated on several luxury motorcars currently on the market, there remains only one Countach “even if imitation is the highest form of flatery.”
The signature wing doors and body style are the most recognizable automobile designs ever. With a top speed of 190 mph, this is not a ‘go get your nails done’ kind of car. Countach engineering demands to be seen on a track, driving at high speeds; otherwise, the very reason for its existence is compromised. The Countach deserves the license plate frame that reads ‘He who drives the fastest car wins.’

DIABLO
The Diablo is the first Lamborghini to reach over 200 mph. During an eleven-year stint in the 90’s, more than 2,750 Diablo models were produced. Once again, drivers find that this is not a simple car to get in and show off; once in, simply let the engine take over and impress – the very reason to own a Lamborghini. This high performance mid-engine sports car replaced the Countach. There are several versions of the Diablo and similar to the Esapada, Ferruccio Lamborghini named this model after an association with bull fighting.

GALLARDO
Currently in production since 2003, Gallardo reaches top speeds in excess of 200 mph. And while cost is irrelevant with a Bull, this model has been employed by some Italian police departments and according to some sources, by London’s Metropolitan Police.
The point is, Lamborghini is an experience – a destination if you will. The branded bull is not meant to be penned in a garage, but rather, set free on the open road.

Lamborghini
www.lamborghini.com