Rear-drive Lambo Gallardo exposed

A day after images of the new model were leaked to the press, Lamborghini has confirmed the existence of the Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni -- a rear-drive version of the raging bull's V10-powered coupe.

In keeping with Lamborghini's current nomenclature, the '550-2' suffix points to a power output of 550 horsepower (404kW) and a two-wheel-drive configuration. The latter is in stark contrast to Lambo's present philosophy, which has dictated an exclusively all-wheel drive line-up.

The 'Valentino Balboni' part of the car's name honours the Lamborghini test driver, who is "a remarkable test driver with his own personal cult status" according to the Italian sports car maker.

The LP550-2 Valentino Balboni weighs 1380kg and is capable of sprinting from standstill to 100km/h in 3.9sec -- marginally slower than its all-paw sibling (we'd speculate this is partly as a result of the traction it sacrifices off the line). Top speed is rated at 320km/h (199 mph).

Lamborghini says "it was not simply a question of moving the transmission to the rear axle" and that "the vehicle had to be adjusted and tuned in every element of its driving dynamics". As such, the chassis has been totally retuned with new springs, dampers, stabilisers and tyres, and the aerodynamics have also been tweaked to take in to account the change to the power flow.

The rear differential features a 45 per cent limited slip and the ESP system had to be rejigged to deal with rear-wheel drive. Lamborghini claims the ESP's CORSA program mode permits "greater drift angles" that allow drivers to "enjoy the dynamics of the LP 550-2 to their full extent".

Just 250 examples of the Gallardo LP550-2 will be offered for sale, in a choice of eight different body colours and the accompanying images indicate the rear-drive Gallardo is little changed from its all-wheel-drive stablemate, barring a white-and-gold racing stripe that runs down the centre of the car. The white-striped theme is also carried over to the seats, while a shiny chrome ball sits atop the gated gearlever.

The limited edition rear-driven Gallardo will be pitched at hardcore enthusiasts, in the same way that Porsche's GT2 range-topper ditches the all-wheel-drive hardware of the 911 Turbo donor car for a purer driving experience.

We're guessing the Bologna-based firm shouldn't have too many problems shifting 250 examples of a coupe that seems guaranteed to acquire collectable status.

Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at www.carsales.mobi.