Lamborghini unveiled the Aventador at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, marking a new era for their flagship supercar. Designed by Filippo Perini, it replaced the Murciélago and drew inspiration from Lamborghini’s limited-edition Reventón and the futuristic Estoque concept. The scissor doors, a staple of modern supercars, became a signature feature of the Aventador.
Staying true to Lamborghini’s heritage, the Aventador housed a powerful V12 engine. This all-new 6.5-liter unit roared with 700 horsepower, channeled through a seven-speed semi-automatic gearbox and a sophisticated electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system. While Lamborghini claimed a top speed of 217 mph, some, like France’s Sport Auto magazine, managed to push theirs even further, reaching an impressive 230 mph.
In 2013, to celebrate their 50th anniversary, Lamborghini unveiled the Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversario Edition at the Shanghai Auto Show. More than just a commemorative badge, this special edition boasted a 20-horsepower bump thanks to a recalibrated engine. Aerodynamics received a significant upgrade as well. Redesigned front and rear fascias, featuring enlarged air intakes and a more prominent diffuser, improved airflow and engine cooling.
These modifications resulted in a 50 percent improvement in aerodynamic efficiency over the standard Aventador, achieving a 0-62 mph time in under three seconds. Priced at $548,800, the LP720-4 50th Anniversario Edition was a significant upgrade over the standard Aventador LP700-4, which started at $417,826.
Photos by Darin Schnabel courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
