Final Lambo V12 with a Manual Transmission: This Murcielago Superveloce Is Going Up for Auction

      RM Sotheby's

      The most significant car news and reviews, no nonsense.

      When Lamborghini releases a new V12 supercar, it’s typically a noteworthy occasion deserving of a scientific designation. The debut of the Murcielago, which succeeded the Diablo, marked the conclusion of the Cretaceous period in Lamborghini’s history, firmly positioning its boutique independence in the past and finalizing its transition into a Volkswagen Group brand. Nevertheless, the Murcielago remained a genuine Lamborghini, and it stands out as one of the finest models.

      Being auctioned by RM Sotheby’s, this 2010 model is not just an ordinary Murcielago. It’s an LP 670-4 Superveloce, one of only five sporty variants that come with a six-speed manual transmission featuring a gated shifter, similar to the standard Murcielago gearbox. According to the auction listing, it is believed to be the last manual Murcielago ever constructed. This would also make it the final V12 Lamborghini, as the later Aventador and Revuelto models eliminated manual options. Additionally, it showcases exclusive paint and interior details from Lamborghini's Ad Personam personalization program.

      Launched in 2002, the Murcielago significantly refreshed Lamborghini’s design with an angular aesthetic, characterized by winglet-like air intakes that adjusted as necessary. As the first Lamborghini fully developed under Audi's oversight (with financing from parent company VW), it utilized a variant of the 6.2-liter V12 from the Diablo, Countach, and Miura, initially generating 571 horsepower. This was later upgraded to 6.5 liters and 631 hp in the LP 640-4 update. The "LP" signifies "Longitudinale Posteriore," indicating the engine's longitudinal placement behind the driver, while "4" refers to the all-wheel drive system, present in all Murcielago road cars.

      The Superveloce marked the Murcielago's farewell. Revealed shortly before production ceased in 2010, it featured an extra 30 hp due to new exhaust and ignition systems and the inclusion of variable valve timing. It was also reported to be 220 pounds lighter than a standard SV model and had a suspension fine-tuned for track performance. More advanced aerodynamic components were added, including a large rear wing that this specific vehicle lacks. It is one of the few equipped with the lesser-known low-drag wing, which allegedly increased the top speed from 209 mph to 212 mph.

      This car has some unique features as well. It is the only Murcielago painted in Marrone Eklipsis, a metallic brown previously used on the Diablo VT 6.0 SE, the last version of the Diablo. This color complements the car's gold wheels and Marrone Janus/Avorio Lilium two-tone interior beautifully.

      The Murcielago certainly fulfilled its role, refreshing the classic Lamborghini supercar image for the 2000s. It also represented the final production vehicle equipped with Lamborghini’s original V12 engine, as the automaker moved to a completely new design with the Aventador. In addition to replacing the manual transmission, that supercar introduced more advanced technology, while the Revuelto took things even further with a plug-in hybrid system. Thus, this Murcielago truly signifies the end of an era.