The Bizzarrini-designed V12 has powered every 12-cylinder Lamborghini for nearly 50 years. Finally, there's a replacement.
The introduction of a new engine usually isn't cause for much fanfare, but this time it's different. The original Giotto Bizzarrini-designed Lamborghini V12 powered everything from the 350 GT in 3.5 and 4.0 liter form to the Murcielago in its ultimate 6.5 liter 660 hp iteration. Now, for the first time in its history Lamborghini has designed a new V12 from the ground up.
It will power the upcoming Murcielago replacement and looks like it will live up to Lamborghini's legendary original. It picks up right where the old engine left off at 6.5 liters and will produce 700bhp and 509lb ft of torque. The rev limiter doesn't do its thing until a stratospheric 8250 rpm. The new motor also comes with a new transmission. Lamborghini calls it the ISR, which stands for Independent Shifting Rod. It's a single clutch, paddle operated, seven speed system, but Lamborghini say that it's capable of shifting twice as fast as dual clutch transmissions found in other supercars.
The old V12 will be greatly missed, but its replacement looks like it will be more than up to the task. Check out the video below to give it a listen.
[YouTube]
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