Lamborghini Veneno Roadster Unveiled

Lamborghini has officially revealed the Veneno Roadster, following yesterday’s leak. It represents another ultra-exclusive model part of the company's 50^th anniversary celebrations and will be built in a limited quantity of nine units, with a pre-tax starting price of 3.3M EUR (approximately 4.5M USD or 2.79M GBP. Although you'll be paying this exorbitant price tag, don't expect to receive a roof since the car only comes with a rollover bar for added stability. Described by Lamborghini as an "open racing prototype", the Veneno Roadster is powered by the same Aventador-derived V12 6.5-liter engine taken from the coupe version which pumps out 750 HP (552 kW) channeled to all four wheels via an ISR transmission with five selectable modes. This hardware setup enables the high-performance roadster to hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in 2.9 seconds before topping out at 220 mph (355 km/h). It tips the scales at only 1,490 kg (3,278 lbs) which results in a power-to-weight ratio of 1.99 kg/bhp (4.38 lbs/bhp). The lower curb weight is the result of a lightweight design with a carbon fiber monocoque and CFRP exterior body parts, while the cabin is also mostly made from carbon fiber. Aside from the absence of a roof it boasts the same eccentric design as the coupe which some have considered to be a bit too much, even for an exclusive Lamborghini. The Italian supercar maker (and soon to be SUV builder) has announced production of the nine cars will commence in 2014. (worldcarfans)