2009 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder

Overview: The Gallardo, the smaller of Lamborghini’s mid-engined supercars is now available as a convertible. The 560 in the name refers to an Italian method of rating the 5.2-liter V-10 engine’s power. In real money, it’s 553 hp, going to all four wheels and pinging the car from standstill to 60 mph in four seconds flat before hitting a top speed of 201 mph. Unlike the Ferrari California, the Gallardo Spyder (the Spyder/Spider nomenclature is often applied to Italian convertibles) has a fabric roof, but it’s still power-actuated. No word on money yet, but considering the tin-top version is $198,000, don’t expect much change from $220,000.

Our take: Let’s enjoy a slight swelling of local pride because Lamborghini chose the L.A. Auto Show for this car’s world debut. And having the top down makes it even easier to hear the snarl from those four chromed exhaust tailpipes. Long may the incredibly rich live while there are cars like this still being made for them.

-- Colin Ryan

More in Autos:
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• 2008 L.A. Auto Show: Production cars
• 2008 L.A. Auto Show: Concept cars
• 2008 L.A. Auto Show: Green cars
• 2009 Green Car of the Year finalists
• Preview: L.A. Auto Show Design Challenge

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