Lamborghini
Aventador
Lamborghini
Murcielago
Lamborghini Aventador vs Lamborghini Murcielago: 2021 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Lamborghini Aventador comes out ahead of the Lamborghini Murcielago on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Aventador
Overall
Owner sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, centered on the vehicle's iconic status, dramatic design, and powerful V12 engine. The Aventador is universally recognized as a landmark supercar that delivers an extreme, head-turning experience. It is frequently described as the definitive "flagship" Lamborghini, prized for its menacing looks, exhilarating sound, and raw, theatrical presence.
Best version to buy
SVJ (Super Veloce Jota): The SVJ is specifically highlighted as the most track-oriented and capable variant, described as the closest thing to a "road legal race car" from Lamborghini. It is noted for holding a Nürburgring production car lap record, cementing its status as the pinnacle performance version of the Aventador lineage.
Known issues
- ⚠Outdated/inadequate infotainment technology: criticism of a poorly implemented Apple CarPlay system in a car not designed for it, seen as missing the point of the vehicle. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Perceived lack of driver engagement: isolated opinions that the driving experience can feel less involving or "janky" compared to rivals from Ferrari or McLaren, particularly for spirited driving. Frequency: isolated.
Murcielago
Overall
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.
Best version to buy
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.
Known issues
- ⚠E-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 laun…
- ⚠Exorbitant 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. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Electrical/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. Frequency: isolated.
The verdict
The Lamborghini Aventador is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Lamborghini Murcielago, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Lamborghini Aventador are a dealbreaker, the Lamborghini Murcielago is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Lamborghini Aventador or the Lamborghini Murcielago?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Lamborghini Aventador than the Lamborghini Murcielago. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Lamborghini Aventador or the Lamborghini Murcielago?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Lamborghini Aventador or the Lamborghini Murcielago?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Lamborghini Aventador or the Lamborghini Murcielago?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Lamborghini Murcielago than the Lamborghini Aventador. See the known issues comparison above.