1:18 Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni Limited Edition - AUTOart

It is a limited (250 units) version named after Valentino Balboni, Lamborghini's former chief test driver for over 40 years. The engine is rated at 550 PS (405 kW; 542 hp). The vehicle has a dry weight of 1,380 kg (3,000 lb). Unlike the contemporary line-up, this model is rear-wheel-drive (because the standard all-wheel-drive system was removed). The CORSA ESP setting allows greater drift angles over regular models.

Other features include re-calibrated optional e-gear transmission, redeveloped 45% limited slip differential, full leather black upholstery with white colour strips, Polar white centre console, a stripe down the centre of the car, and a badge below the left side window bears the signature of Valentino Balboni and the production number of the car.

The Lamborghini LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni can reach a top speed of 199 mph and reach 0–100 km/h in 3.9 seconds.

In 2009, the car was voted Top Gear's car of the year; Richard Hammond explained: "We were impressed with its stripe, its V10 engine, its rear wheel drive, the savagery of its exhaust, and its, er, stripe."

Valentino Balboni's signature etched on a plate can be seen behind the glass of the rear-side quarter window. Great feature not missed by AUTOart.

VERDICT:

There are only two minor issues I noticed that AUTOart missed on this model:

1. In the AUTOart website, this particular model's color is/was announced as Verde Ithaca. In reality, it is a bit far from Verde Ithaca but rather light green metallic. Nevertheless, the model still looks good in this shade of green.

2. When Valentino Balboni gave the specs for his signature car, first he mentioned for the Gallardo VB was to be built in 2-wheel drive with 6-speed manual stick shift. Aa released the LP560-4 with manual stick shift and released this model with paddles shifter. It should have been the other way around.

Aside from those issues, the entire model is built in absolute craftsmanship.

-Paint job is flawless.
-Panel lines are tight.
-Photo-etched badges (front bull emblem, side "LP550-2" emblem and rear "Lamborghini" badge) are neatly and correctly applied.
-Front boot and engine cover stays in place with the hydraulic struts.
-Interior is beautifully done with the white lining, gold and yellow accents.
-As expected from Aa, the wheels, tires, disc brakes, and calipers are realistically crafted (Aa's best effort).

I highly recommend this model for Lamborghini and supercar collectors and fanatics. If you intend to buy more than one, the metallic yellow and metallic orange versions are also nice colors to choose from.

 LP550-2 with Superleggera brother

1:18 Lamborghini Miura P400S - Kyosho

The Lamborghini Miura is considered as the most sexiest car in the world. Many would even agree that it is also the most beautiful car ever made. It also defined the word "Supercar". Model aside, like the P400SV and Jota SVR version Miuras, this P400S model is also excellently crafted by Kyosho. As I mentioned in my previous posts, I chose Kyosho over AUTOart when it comes to Miura and Countach models. I thought of adding this variation to my collection as I've wanted a yellow Miura too. Some minor differences can be seen from the SV version. Such as the tail light, side mirror placement, wheels, headlight "eye lashes", and the front signal and clearance lights. There are also a few changes in the front engine bay but the engine is almost identical.

The Sexy Bulls

1:18 Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster - AUTOart

Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster

I didn't have any plans in getting this model as it wasn't on my priority list...   yet. But this was offered to me at a very good price. US$45 all in! So who could resist? Hahaha!

AUTOart as usual is the best maker of most modern Lamborghini models (1990 and up) such as the Reventon, Murcielago, Gallardo, Diablo in scales 1:18 and 1:43. This particular model is the only American version Lamborghini replicated by AUTOart. The rest are European version (which is much better in my opinion).

Anyway, here it is and I just did a few minor detailing to it. Replaced the plastic seat belts to ribbon type, repainted and added a few wires to the engine, installed aluminum tape to the rear radiators behind the fans to replicate the real ones, and painted silver fine linings to the center console.

Enjoy the pictures!

1:18 Lamborghini Gallardo Polizia - AUTOart

I just received this model over the weekend. I've been wanting one ever since but it this model is already a hard-to-find item. Fortunately, one of my contacts from Japan was able to get this one for me. So here, it sits on one of my Lambo shelves. Enjoy the pictures!

Lamborghini Countach 5000s - Kyosho

This is the other half of my ultimate holy "Lambo" grail. It also took me more than two years to find this precious model. Luckily, I finally have it.

This model reminds of of the 80s movie, "Cannonball Run II". As with all "Cannonball Run" series, their beginnings start off with a speeding Countach chased by police patrol cars.

Basically, the details are almost the same as the blue 5000 QV. The only minor differences are the engine details, engine cover and muffler tips. Aside from those and the colors of the interior and exterior, everything is identical. As with all Kyosho Countach models, this is simply perfect!

If you're on a hunt for 1:18 Countach or Miura models, take my advice, Kyosho is always the best choice. Don't settle for anything else. Not even the AUTOart Countach or Miura.










With its blue brother, the 5000 QV (Quattro Valvole)



Band of "Countach" Brothers