[csteenbe]

Hi,

Read a lot about the G, special editions, weak points, e-gear etc. Checked specialist for maintenance and got a quote for insurance etc...

Did 2 test drives, seen 4 cars and every box it ticking - love the car BUT still have my doubts.

Can buy a nice G a SE edition of 2005 it has 46k miles on it.

But have to pull the trigger but as said before still my doubts, I am not a millionair but can pay it cash no problem, did potential buyers here had the same feeling ?

Thanks.

 

[FontusBluG]

So that's like 88K US dollars? I'd have my doubts too as I was told to stay away from '04-'05 years if possible (worst years for E-gear, wear, tall ratio, etc). 46k as kilometers = 28.5k miles, so that's not bad. For another 8 - 15k Euro you can find a significantly improved model. I had three cars (a couple months ago) that I was interested in all in the 87-88k Euro equivalent range. 2005 gated manual w/ 40k kilometers, 2007 Spyder e-gear w/ 29k kilometers, or a 2011 e-gear spyder w/ 32k kilometers............. I ultimately chose the 2011 because of all the 2nd Gen updates and improvements to E-gear, longevity, and reliability for 88k Euro, THAT was a no-brainer for me (it was originally listed for 103k Euros)

 

[csteenbe]

Thanks @FontusBluG, it is 73000 kilometers actually.

I thought the SE versions were also upgraded compared to the 04-05 models.

I like the pre-lp also more, the taillights I find them more nice, also budget wise it fits better.

 

[FontusBluG]

I could be wrong but I thought the SE was mostly an appearance package w/ the 2 piece Callisto wheels (the nicest factory wheel IMO) and two-tone paint/interior. Hey, everybody has their reasons/preferences as to 1st or 2nd Gen.... Pre-LP exhaust note is a big reason people go there, but the 5.0L has its' weaknesses. I suspect maintenance costs over the course of Pre-LP ownership could exceed that of the LP so I looked at it as a 'Pay me now or Pay me later' situation. Plus, I'm an Auto Tech and the Audi drivetrain sits well w/ me as compared to the 'other' exotics since I do 90% of my own maintenance. Everybody has their own reasons for their decisions. You're doing the right thing to ask for other owner perceptions. KEEP Doing your Research !! and you'll form your own list of pros and cons that work in YOUR situation based on the consolidated input of others (with varying perspectives, which is good). So you see, from my personal perspective, the LP is like a different car. They took everything that was an 'issue' with the 1st Generation and addressed it. I think it's Way More car for a little bit more money now, but maybe less overall, over the course of ownership. Look at the Pre-LP update market. Hope this helps, Have Fun and Good Luck in your search !

 

[csteenbe]

Thanks @FontusBluG, the SE version has 20hp more and gearing is a bit different, also do not know If it is better or more valueable ?

I am reading a lot about the G, but the non LP appeals me more from design, is a question of taste.

 

[Plumber]

I went through this process for about 2 years before buying mine. Got cold feet a few times, contemplated an Evora 400, bought an M2, but the Gallardo was never far from my mind. I liked the pre LP sound and rear end, preferred the LP power, upgrades and reliability.
My search was different in that I wanted more power (turbo or supercharger) and was factoring that into my purchase decision. I settled on a Hefner LP because of the combo of late-LP model year (love the final edition front and rear bodywork), already had the expensive turbo work done, OEM roll bar installed, wheels, color and price. So far so good with the purchase. I can see this as a car I keep until I’m too old to get in and out of it.
All of that said, this is not a practical purchase decision. It is an emotional, personal choice to buy something that speaks to you. If it gives you pause, move on or wait it out. If you’re ok with a “labor of love” and putting up with only 2 seats, no storage, 1 cup holder, constant attention and 2” of ground clearance then go for it haha.

 

[GhostRider]

Hi,
I saw your post and it gave me actually a reason to register... finally. I’m owner for a year now of a LP560-4 Spyder and I recognize myself a bit in your story. I can only say, after this year of ownership. I should have taken this step much earlier. What an experience, driving a car like this. I also own two Porsches biut this is so next level! Especially in NL, where you will draw lots of attention, thats for sure! I can recommend you for a decent PPI at Louwman Exclusive where I bought mine, or at Guus van Eijk, a specialist in Gorinchem. Of course Pon Leusden as a dealership can help you as well. Good luck with these first steps. And maybe c ya on the roads here! Cheers!

 

[csteenbe]

Aha fellow “medelander” @GhostRider, I am a bit in deep s***, love the car and I know and already had some queries answered by Guus van Eijk, nice person. He also has the car in maintenance what I am looking for and everything is ok.

Had also 2 Porsches and a Donkervoort D8 and everytime I sell them, I don not why. Maybe they are boring after I have them and owned them for 1 or 3 years.

But I am very impressed by the G, looks and runs stunning - I actually like the e-gear gives some rawness in the drive and it isn’t that bad either.

Must get my mind sorted!

 

[csteenbe]

@Plumber yes maybe it is the cold feet

 

[GhostRider]

When I was in the position to buy a Gallardo I first went for an all black coupé, till I saw this nice open blue beauty at Louwman. It really was love on first sight and I couldn’t get her out of my mind. I first thought about exchange one of my Porsches on de LP, but I also couldn’t leave one of my German beauties there as well. So I kept (both) Porsches and bought the LP, making another dream come true. After a year still content of that decision. My 993 C4S and my 997 C2S X51 still don’t bore me... I guess I get attached to my cars... I should’t give them girl names... Oops LOL

 

[GhostRider]

When the money allows you to get de G...
You shouldn’t have no doubts anymore and make the deal. Better regrets on doing something, then regrets on something you should have done... (something like that translated from Dutch... LOL)

 

[csteenbe]

@GhostRider hahaha, Coupe will it be for me after owning a Donkervoort open ride is not for me.

 

[GhostRider]

I think a Donkervoort is quite a rocket! Open and low on the ground. I first wanted a coupe as well, I like the shape of the roof, but allready owning two other coupes, a Spyder would fit my wishes better... and that colour.... oh my...!
Still owning the D?

 

[FontusBluG]

When I was in the position to buy a Gallardo I first went for an all black coupé, till I saw this nice open blue beauty at Louwman. It really was love on first sight and I couldn’t get her out of my mind. I first thought about exchange one of my Porsches on de LP, but I also couldn’t leave one of my German beauties there as well. So I kept (both) Porsches and bought the LP, making another dream come true. After a year still content of that decision. My 993 C4S and my 997 C2S X51 still don’t bore me... I guess I get attached to my cars... I should’t give them girl names... Oops LOL

!!!
Sold a Steller 24k mile 997 C2S manual Coupe that I owned since 2010 to get my G. Wanted a Convertible this time. Wish I could have kept it, a beauty low mileage car, but couldn't have made the jump at this time without....(and the fact I sold it for what I paid 10 years ago). NO Regrets.....driving this thing is Truly and Experience, Loving it !! And the Sound you get with either the top down or the back window open (can't do that w/ a coupe)

 

[GhostRider]

Yep. The 997, especially the manuals keep their value pretty well. Could exchange mine on the LP without depreciation after 2 years. Since my 997 is my DD, I kept mine. Financially I had the possibility to keep it. Going to customers in a LP would give to much discussion I guess.... especially in the Netherlands people sadly don’t appreciate it when driving a nice car...

 

[Itsagoodday]

If you look up the VIN for the car it will tell you if it is spec'd with the lower ratio trans. (a must if it was me buying an e-gear car). The 8th digit will be a "T" if it has the lower ratio trans.

 

[GhostRider]

If you look up the VIN for the car it will tell you if it is spec'd with the lower ratio trans. (a must if it was me buying an e-gear car). The 8th digit will be a "T" if it has the lower ratio trans.

Does this applies to pre-LP’s or to the LP’s as well? Didn’t know there was a ratio difference...

 

[Itsagoodday]

Does this applies to pre-LP’s or to the LP’s as well? Didn’t know there was a ratio difference...

Digit 8 codes are different for different models:

Gallardo: M=6sp, N=low ratio 6sp, S=egear, T=low ratio egear)

LP: R=560HP Manual, U=560HP egear, V=550HP Manual, Z=550HP egear, Y=570HP Manual, J=570HP egear)

 

[csteenbe]

The specs of a SE version 2006 Lamborghini Gallardo SE

 

[GhostRider]

Tnx! Still get to know my Blu girl little better....