Used 2008 Lamborghini Murcielago LP640

The mid-engine, Lamborghini Murcielago can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in a mere 3.4 seconds, according to Lamborghini, thanks to its 6.5L, 60-degree V12 engine, which makes 640 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered to all four wheels through either a six-speed manual transmission or the e-gear automatic gearbox, an automated manual gearbox, which now features a "Thrust" mode oriented toward the fastest possible acceleration.

Although the Murcielago is geared for the racetrack, it also has some measure of drivability for the street, thanks to continuously variable valve timing, both for intake and exhaust valves, plus a drive-by-wire management system.

The all-wheel drive system on the Murcielago uses a viscous coupling and normally sends 70 percent of engine power to the rear wheels but can electronically vary the distribution as needed.

As the Murcielago is capable of going about 205 miles per hour, braking is especially important. Huge ventilated discs on all four wheels, along with four-wheel anti-lock and electronic brake control, are standard. For even better braking, ceramic carbon brakes with six-piston calipers--with almost no perceptible fading, according to Lamborghini--are optional. The suspension is also oriented toward high-speed stability, with electronically controlled dampers that help control "dive" and "squat" during hard acceleration and braking. High-speed Pirelli PZero "Rosso" tires are included.

The interior is rather tight and follows a cockpit design, with perforated leather upholstery and a race-oriented layout. However modern conveniences aren't omitted; a Kenwood sound system and 6.5-inch display are included for DVD and MP3 compatibility.

Through Lamborghini's "Privilego" customization program, various options and special trim such as carbon fiber are available for the interior. A transparent glass engine cover is also available, for those who wish to show off the powerful V12.

Racy Wedgelike Profile And Flamboyant Styling

One Of The Top-performing Supercars

Exclusivity.

The Lamborghini Murcielago, which was revised extensively last year and gained the LP640 moniker, continues unchanged into 2008 and remains available as either a coupe or roadster.

The Murcielago coupe and roadster, with their price tags well over a quarter of a million dollars, are among the most exclusive cars in the world. They're also among the fastest, with a top speed that exceeds 200 miles per hour. Plan on renting out some track time to be able to appreciate the Murcielago, which barely hits its stride in stop-and-go traffic. Ultimately, the value here is whatever it's worth to get a real poster car into your own garage.