The Lamborghini Aventador S Roadster is an epitome of extreme performance, stunningly good looks, and a price tag that matches its exclusivity. Priced at £300,000, this theatrical supercar combines space-age aesthetics with a wild personality that sets it apart from the competition.
A Facelift with Purpose
The Aventador S Roadster received a subtle facelift in 2017, aimed at addressing its major flaw: a challenging driving experience. However, it was crucial to maintain the car’s unique character, ensuring it didn’t lose the wide, unruly, and visibility-bereft essence that defines Lamborghini.
One of the significant changes that contribute to the improved driving dynamics is the addition of rear-wheel steering. This technology tightens the turning circle at low speeds and enhances stability at higher speeds by lengthening the wheelbase. The Aventador S Roadster flaunts its agility, making it more approachable and engaging to drive.
Enhanced Performance and Handling
In addition to rear-wheel steering, Lamborghini made several other tweaks to the Aventador S Roadster. The rear magnetic dampers have been retuned, and the all-wheel drive system now offers a more rear-biased power distribution, resulting in improved driver engagement. These adjustments transform the Aventador S Roadster into a more wieldy and responsive machine, reducing the tendency for nose-diving during spirited cornering while maintaining a compliant ride across different driving modes.
The seven-ratio automated manual transmission, a signature of Lamborghini, remains unchanged. However, there is a notable delay between shifts that distinguishes the Aventador S Roadster from its competitors. To optimize the gear changes, it is recommended to lift off the throttle just before each shift and take control using the column-mounted paddles, allowing the driver to be the master of their own automotive destiny.
Unleashing the V12 Symphony
The heart of the Aventador S Roadster is its monstrous V12 engine, delivering a symphony of power and performance. Starting with a burbling idle, the engine springs to life with a wail reminiscent of mid-’90s V12 Formula 1 engines, evoking a sense of nostalgia and excitement.
As the revs climb, the Aventador S Roadster unleashes mind-bending accelerative forces. With a claimed top speed of 217mph and a 0-62mph time of just 3.0 seconds, it’s clear that this Italian supercar is not for the faint of heart. The ability to hold the engine at any given rpm is exhilarating, making it a basic human right to share the symphony of the V12 with as many people as possible.
Personalization at Your Fingertips
The Aventador S Roadster offers a range of drive modes, including the new Ego setting, which allows drivers to customize the drivetrain, steering, and suspension to their liking. However, thanks to the precision and performance of the magnetic dampers, the Corsa mode often proves to be the ideal choice for most driving situations.
One area that may require improvement is the variable-ratio steering, which at times exhibits aggressive tugging left and right, even when driving in a straight line. This behavior is reminiscent of the unruly front end found in the Alfa Romeo 4C, but thankfully, the similarities end there. The interior of the Aventador S Roadster features a distinctive and luxurious cockpit design, elevating the sense of exclusivity. The iconic scissor doors, exclusive to Lamborghini’s V12 models, serve as a bold reminder that this is Sant’ Agata at its best.
Practicality and Drawbacks
While the Aventador S Roadster impresses with its performance and aesthetics, there are a few practicality concerns. The roof consists of two removable panels that must be manually taken off and stored in the front luggage compartment. However, due to their size, there is limited space for additional belongings. Therefore, it’s advisable to leave the 6kg carbon fiber panels safely stored at home or at a summer house in a hot climate, ensuring protection from unexpected rain showers.
Another aspect that may cause minor inconvenience is the driving position. Compared to the Aventador coupe, the roadster variant offers less adjustability, making it challenging to find the perfect alignment of the windscreen, steering wheel, and instrument panel. However, despite these minor drawbacks, the Aventador S Roadster’s overall package is a testament to Lamborghini’s commitment to creating uncompromisingly exciting supercars.
In Conclusion
The Lamborghini Aventador S Roadster represents the evolution of a wild child. With its facelift, including the addition of rear-wheel steering and various performance enhancements, Lamborghini has tamed the Aventador S Roadster, making it more approachable without sacrificing its unique character. The symphony of its V12 engine, the personalization options, and the exclusive cockpit design add to the overall allure of this Italian masterpiece. Although it may have a few practicality concerns, the Aventador S Roadster remains a glorious and exhilarating symbol of automotive excellence.