Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (330 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2010
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, characterized by deep appreciation for the vehicle's iconic design, raw V12 engine character, and its status as the final evolution of Lamborghini's original V12 lineage.
4 problems reported (2 recurrent, 2 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentE-Gear automated manual transmission reliability and cost
Described as having a "horrible reputation" in Gallardo and Murcielago models; high failure rate; clutch replacement costs exceed $10,000 USD and can be ruined in under 5 hard launches.
- RecurrentExorbitant replacement part costs
Parts shared with mainstream vehicles (e.g., Ford Focus turn signals) cost significantly more when purchased through Lamborghini; general maintenance costs are very high.
- IsolatedElectrical/sensor failures
Isolated report of a failure to shift into drive caused by faulty brake pedal and backup pedal sensors, which also disabled brake lights.
+ 1 more issueShow fewer
- IsolatedAsymmetrical body design
On LP 640 model, one functional side oil cooler vent paired with a blocked-off faux vent on the opposite side, noted as a design inconsistency.
The version owners recommend
Gated 6-Speed Manual Transmission variant. Owner discussions indicate an extreme valuation disparity, with manual models reportedly commanding prices up to four times that of equivalent E-Gear automatic models, reflecting a very strong consensus on its superior desirability, engagement, and long-term investment potential. The LP 640 update is also mentioned, but the transmission type is the dominant differentiator.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Ferrari 360 Modena, Ferrari F40, Ferrari 599 GTO, Lamborghini Gallardo and Lamborghini Aventador.
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Overall sentiment
Owner sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, characterized by deep appreciation for the vehicle's iconic design, raw V12 engine character, and its status as the final evolution of Lamborghini's original V12 lineage. The car is celebrated for its dramatic, aggressive styling, which is frequently contrasted with more elegant rivals. The 6.5L V12 engine is specifically highlighted as a favorite for its sound and historical significance. However, ownership is universally acknowledged as a high-cost endeavor, with maintenance and repair expenses reflecting the car's original six-figure price tag. Specific criticisms from owner discussions center on the reliability and cost of the automated manual transmission (E-Gear), the high expense of replacement parts, and the discovery that some components are shared with mainstream vehicles but carry exorbitant Lamborghini-branded price premiums. The consensus positions the Murcielago as a demanding but rewarding analog supercar, valued more for its emotional impact and theater than for outright reliability or daily usability.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a bold, daring, and less elegant alternative to contemporary Ferraris, with specific comparisons drawn to the Ferrari 360 Modena and Testarossa. It is viewed as a more raw and theatrical vehicle than its successor, the Aventador, with owners expressing a strong preference for the Murcielago's 6.5L V12 over newer engine designs. Within the Lamborghini family, it is consistently seen as a more special and engaging car than the smaller, more accessible Gallardo, but ownership costs are understood to be significantly higher. The manual transmission variant commands an extreme premium on the used market, illustrating its desirability compared to the automated E-Gear model.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient owner data available for specific trim or option recommendations beyond the strong preference for the manual transmission. One owner noted the LP 640 model had an asymmetrical design with one functional oil cooler vent and one blocked-off faux vent, which was criticized.
General recommendations
Only suitable for buyers with a significant budget for maintenance and repairs, understanding that costs will reflect the car's original $80,000+ USD price point. A pre-purchase inspection is essential, with particular focus on the transmission system. Buyers should budget for expensive, specialized tires and avoid cheap replacements as an indicator of poor maintenance. The manual transmission is strongly recommended for driving engagement and investment value. Owners should be prepared for high-cost repairs, such as clutch replacements which can exceed $10,000 USD. Research part cross-compatibility, as some components (e.g., turn signals) are shared with mainstream brands like Ford but are vastly more expensive when sourced from Lamborghini.
Remarks
The valuation gap between manual and E-Gear transmission models is extreme, with manual cars cited as being worth approximately four times the price of an automatic, illustrating a powerful market consensus on driver engagement and collectibility. The 6.5L V12 is specifically praised as the final iteration of Lamborghini's original engine design, contributing to the model's iconic status. Several discussions use the Murcielago as a benchmark for performance or cost in comparative contexts, but do not provide direct ownership experience. Analysis based on approximately 12 substantive owner discussions and numerous comparative references.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | 1 | 1 | electrical system |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices1 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2003 · steering:columncampaign 03V375000
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE TORQUE APPLIED TO THE JOINT SCREW BETWEEN THE STEERING WHEEL AND THE STEERING COLUMN WAS NOT CERTIFIED.
Specifications
6.5 V12
6.5L 12-cylinder · 640 hp · AWD · manual
Built 2006–2010