Audi goes up, Lamborghini goes down. Just as the R8, which wasn't really supposed to compete with the Gallardo, is getting revved up for a V10 transplant, the less expensive Gallardo could be going downmarket, swapping adding a V8 model to accompany the current V10. Admittedly its speculative, but sources and pics from the 'Ring indicate to World Car Fans the possibility of a V8 Gallardo with a revised fascia, altered exhaust treatment, and a less raucous exhaust roar than the V10. If true, that would mean we'll have two different versions of an Audi supercar (perhaps a third if a diesel engine is offered) and an "affordable" Lamborghini. Who saw that coming?
This involves a little speculation here, but our sources at the Nürburgring have photographed what may be a V8-powered Lamborghini Gallardo prototype. A slightly revised front fascia, and a visibly reworked exhaust out back suggest that some engine changes are being explored. This Gallardo is reportedly being benchmarked with an Audi RS4, which is powered by a high-revving 420 hp V8 4.2FSI power plant. The RS4's V8 would be a logical engine choice if Lamborghini decides to move ahead with a slightly more sedate (and affordable) Gallardo variant. Our Ring spies tell us that this revised Gallardo is noticeably quieter than the typical V10-powered version, when running all-out on the track.
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