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Lamborghini’s Huracán Spyder convertible soaks in the sun at LA auto show

Temperatures may be dropping in much of the country, but it’s still sunny in Los Angeles, which made the 2016 L.A. Auto Show the perfect place for Lamborghini to unveil its latest convertible supercar.

Following the launch of the rear-wheel drive Huracán LP580-2 coupe, Lamborghini is adding a convertible Spyder version to the lineup. The rear-wheel drive LP580-2 Spyder really is the perfect car for sunny L.A., where drivers probably won’t miss the all-wheel drive system offered in other Huracán models as much as their counterparts in rainier and snowier parts of the country.

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This new model combines the convertible Spyder body, previously offered only with all-wheel drive, and the mechanicals of the LP580-2 coupe. That means drive goes to the back wheels only, allowing more slides, tire smoke, and general hooliganism. It’s exactly what you want in a Lambo, provided your driving skills can handle it. The convertible top takes 17 seconds to open or close, and can operate at speeds up to 31 mph.

Like the LP580-2 coupe, the Spyder uses a detuned version of Lamborghini’s 5.2-liter V10. In rear-wheel drive models, this engine produces 572 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque, while all-wheel drive models get 602hp and 413 lb-ft. Still, the LP580-2 Spyder can do 0 to 62 mph in 3.6 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 198 mph, Lamborghini says.

Just like all other Huracán variants, the LP580-2 Spyder uses a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. It also gets the same tech as other Huracán models, including adaptive electric power steering and magnetorheological dampers, which use fluid containing metal particles, allowing them to be adjusted near instantaneously using an electric current.

The Lamborghini Huracán LP580-2 Spyder goes on sale in January. Lamborghini says its price will fall between that of the rear-wheel drive LP580-2 coupe and the all-wheel drive coupe model, meaning somewhere north of $200,000. Some of Los Angeles’ wealthier residents have probably already put down deposits.

Stephen Edelstein
Stephen is a freelance automotive journalist covering all things cars. He likes anything with four wheels, from classic cars…
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