GTspirit’s Top 10 Lamborghini Gallardo Variants/Special Editions

While production of the Lamborghini Gallardo ended after 10 years late last year, the supercar will always be remembered as the one that really helped Lamborghini rival the likes of Ferrari and Porsche. Prior to it, Lamborghini generally only offered one halo model at a time so upon its release in 2003, many were understandably shocked. However, customer interest and sales proved high and just like that, the Gallardo became Lamborghini’s most successful model ever. Prior to new variants of the Lamborghini Huracan inevitably being released, we think it’s a good idea to look back at the Top 10 Lamborghini Gallardo Variants/Special Editions.

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10. Lamborghini Gallardo SE

First off, we have the Lamborghini Gallardo SE introduced in 2005. As the very first Gallardo special edition released, it just had to be on this list somewhere. While no power improvements were made to the 5.0-litre V10 engine, the Gallardo SE was clearly distinguishable from the regular Gallardo coupe thanks to its black roof and engine cover. It also came standard with the generally optional sports suspension and navigation system. What’s more, it introduced Lamborghini’s ‘thrust mode’ into the Gallardo line-up.

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9. Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4

In ninth we have the excellent Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4. Introduced at the Geneva Motor Show 2008 as the first facelifted model for the Gallardo, the LP 560-4 brought with it a new 5.2-litre V10 engine delivering 552 hp at 8000 rpm and 398 lb-ft of torque at 6500 rpm. It also brought with it an improved E-gear transmission while maintaining the six-speed gated manual transmission.

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8. Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Polizia

One of the most recognisable Gallardo’s ever introduced is the one off Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Polizia. Created for the Italian State Police and to replace their first-gen Gallardo police car, the LP 560-4 Polizia still manages to drop jaws in Italy despite being in service since late 2008!

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7. Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera

Next up, we have the potent Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera. As the very first lightweight, track-focused variant of the second-gen Gallardo, the LP 570-4 Superleggera was the lightest Gallardo model offered to the public at the time. Alongside the revised front bumper, rear diffuser and the addition of a carbon fiber rear wing, the car received a 10 hp boost in power helping to launch it to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds!

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6. Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Blancpain Edition

The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Blancpain Edition is often overlooked in the Gallardo range, largely due to its limited availability. However, at the time of its introduction in late 2010, it was the most aggressive and outlandish Gallardo offered with a new front end, rear wing, rear diffuser and engine cover inspired by the Blancpain Super Trofeo racing cars. It maintained the same mechanicals as the LP 570-4 Superleggera.

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5. Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante Edizione Tecnica

In fifth, we have the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante Edizione Tecnica. Essentially identical to the standard LP 570- Spyder Performante but with two extra words in its name, this particular Gallardo model combines the hardcore nature of the LP 570-4 Superleggera coupe with the joys of having no roof. And plus, it has the longest name in this list which has to count for something right?

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4. Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2

Let’s be honest, all Lamborghini Gallardo models are out of the price range of the average joe. However, in 2011, the Italian manufacturer introduced the most affordable version of the Gallardo in the form of the LP 550-2. Following the introduction of the rear-wheel drive Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni, the ‘regular’ LP 550-2 remains an incredible car to drive to this day. Despite having 10 fewer horsepower than other second-generation Gallardo’s, the combination of rear-wheel drive and a six-speed gated manual transmission make it one of the most enjoyable Gallardos to drive.

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3. Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera

We’ve decided to give third place to the first-generation Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera. Why? Well the answer is quite simple. It was the first, stripped down and uprated Gallardo variant ever offered and paved the way for all other track-oriented Gallardo models. Sure, the second generation Superleggera is a better car in all regards, but the original shouldn’t be forgotten for its significance within the range.

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2. Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale/LP 570-4 Squadra Corse

In second, we’ve selected both the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale and LP 570-4 Squadra Corse. While the two are separated by more than two years, they are mechanically identical with the only differences between the Super Trofeo Stradale from 2011 and the Squadra Corse from last year, being the slightly revised front bumper and rear grille. Both cars feature an upgraded 5.2-litre V10 delivering 570 hp and come fitted with aggressive bumpers, a massive rear wing, revised quick release engine cover, carbon ceramic brakes and a six-speed e-gear transmission.

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1. Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni

Ultimately, we’ve decided to rate the truly epic Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni as the best Gallardo special edition/variant ever. Created to commemorate Lamborghini test driver Valentino Balboni, the car was the first rear-wheel drive Lamborghini offered since the legendary Diablo. Additionally, it weighed 30 kg less than the regular LP 560-4, featured a redesigned limited slip differential and most importantly, was available with a six-speed manual ‘box. Combine this with an extremely limited production run, a cool set of wheels and a unique livery, the Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni was a no-brainer for the top position.