Perfect piece of Italian flash - if you've got the cash
One of the world's fastest cars has arrived in Hong Kong - with a $3.18 million price tag.
The two-tone Lamborghini Gallardo SE (Special Edition) made its flashy Hong Kong debut at the car company's new showroom in Wan Chai last night.
Arriving in the city on Sunday, just two of the models are on sale here. One, in titanium and black, has been snapped up by an enthusiast who already owns several Lamborghinis. The second, a black and white version, was still up for grabs yesterday, but a deal is nearing completion.
Gary Lai Ka-ho, Lamborghini Hong Kong marketing manager, admitted that while Hong Kong might not have too many roads and expressways where the Gallardo SE can display its impressive 4-second zero-to-100km/h acceleration and powerful 520 horsepower engine, it's a perfect town to show off the flashy Italian sports car.
Only 250 of the special edition cars have been manufactured and numbers 138 and 168 have been chosen for the Hong Kong market.
'We specifically asked the factory for those special numbers for Hong Kong as they're considered lucky in Chinese culture,' said Mr Lai as he prepared for the launch of both the cars and Lamborghini's new showroom in Gloucester Road.
Each car has its unique vehicle number embossed in the Lamborghini shield.
For those who need the specs, it has permanent four-wheel drive, a six-speed gearbox, aluminium space frame, power steering and anti-locking brake system.
The Gallardo series, with its nickname the 'baby Gallardo', is not the company's fastest model - that distinction goes to the larger Murcielago, which can top 330km/h and accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 3.8 seconds.
But the Gallardo SE is certainly no slouch in the speed department. Its upgraded gearbox has boosted its performance to move 6km/h faster than the original Gallardo model. This latest edition can reach speeds of up to 315km/h - although probably not in Causeway Bay on a Saturday afternoon.
