Lamborghini Calà

Vehicle Overview

The Italdesign Calà, introduced at the Geneva motor show in 1995, is a research prototype for a Lamborghini 2+2 coupé that can be converted to an open-topped car similar to the Targa. In stylistic terms, the car clearly displays the influence of conventional Lamborghini traits, namely Miura-derived front headlights and a windscreen reminiscent of the Countach. The Italdesign Lamborghini Calà is, however, significantly higher for reasons of comfort. The well-lit passenger compartment can in fact easily accommodate two adults and two children. The carbon fibre body is anchored to an aluminium chassis with the adoption of a brand-new technology involving folded, bonded panels. The mechanical layout was designed by Lamborghini, with a new V10, 3961 cc, 372 HP, 7200 rpm engine fitted in a mid-rear position, combined with rear-wheel drive. The engine was first developed in 1988 for the P 140 prototype, which Audi will dust off, upgrading it and increasing its displacement to employ in Gallardo, R8 and other S or RS models in its range. Power is transmitted through a six-speed manual transmission to the rear axle. From 0 to 100 km/h the car accelerates in about 5 seconds, while the top speed is about 290 km/h. Its name from an exclamation in the Piedmontese language meaning “scesa o sceso (descend) probably referring to the displacement or the number of cylinders (both lower than the coeval Lamborghini Diablo) or “cala!” diminish pretensions, again referring to the Bolognese manufacturer’s more emblazoned car.