2009 Lamborghini Murcielago LP 670-4 SV Photos, engines & full specs

In 2009 Lamborghini launched the most powerful vehicle from its lineup to that date, the Murcielago LP670-4 SV, but the world financial crisis partly killed it.

The Italian automaker planned to build 300 units of the LP 670-4 SuperVeloce, but the world economy was collapsing, and the car industry took a beating. Obviously, Lamborghini also suffered, but in a different way than others. It survived but was crippled. It produced just 186 units before retiring the Murcielago from the assembly lines to make room for its successor, the Aventador.

Like many other SV versions built before it for several other models, such as the Miura SV and the Diablo SV, the Murcielago SV shared many of its parts with the regular version. Yet, the automaker replaced some of them to shave about 100 kg (220 lbs) from the original vehicle. The black carbon fiber spoiler from the front, plus the wing and diffuser in the back, were specific for this version. Moreover, a set of side scoops placed behind the scissor-type doors further emphasized the supercar's aggressive look.

Inside, the automaker carefully placed the SV logo inside the tachometer so the driver never forgets what they're driving. The Alcantara-wrapped dashboard canceled all reflections to help the one behind the wheel stay focused on the road. Additional carbon fiber trims were installed on the center console, door cards, dashboard, and steering wheel.

Mounted behind the cockpit, in a longitudinal position (hence the LP designation), the 670 PS (661 hp) engine was a work of art by itself. The dry sump lubrication system and the high-performance processors for each cylinder bank made the massive V12 spin with up to 8,000 rpm. Its 660 Nm (487 lb-ft) of torque was sent to the rear wheels via an automated, single-clutch, six-speed gearbox. As a no-cost option, the automaker offered the supercar with a manual transmission. Both versions sent the power in all corners, hence the -4 in the model's designation. With the standard wing on the back, the car could reach up to 337 kph (209 mph), which provided more downforce and higher drag resistance. An optional smaller one allowed the vehicle to increase that value to 347 kph (213 mph).