Rumours Swirl Over 400 km/h Lamborghini Aventador Variant
Speculation mounts after a prototype Aventador is spotted with Bugatti Veyron wheels, but Lamborghini’s official figures remain unchanged at 350 km/h for the LP700-4.
A flurry of speculation has followed the appearance of a Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 prototype fitted with wheels from the Bugatti Veyron, prompting rumours that a 400 km/h version could be in development. The sighting, reported in early August 2011, has fuelled debate among enthusiasts and industry watchers, though Lamborghini itself has made no announcement regarding such a variant.
The origin of the 400 km/h claim
The rumour started when spy photographers captured an Aventador test mule running on alloy wheels usually reserved for the Bugatti Veyron, a car known for its ability to surpass 400 km/h. Some commentators suggested this indicated Lamborghini was preparing a high-speed version of the Aventador, with modifications to the transmission and aerodynamics to prioritise top speed over acceleration.
However, there is no technical evidence to support claims of a 400 km/h Aventador. The standard LP700-4 is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 producing 700 PS (690 hp) at 8,250 rpm and 690 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm. Power is delivered through a seven-speed ISR automated manual gearbox and permanent all-wheel drive, enabling a factory-claimed top speed of 350 km/h and 0-100 km/h in 2.9 seconds. These figures are consistent across official sources and early reviews.
Technical barriers to 400 km/h
Reaching 400 km/h would require substantial changes to the Aventador’s aerodynamics, gearing, and possibly engine output. The Bugatti Veyron, for example, uses a quad-turbocharged W16 engine producing over 1,000 hp, along with tyres and a body designed specifically for extreme high-speed stability. The Aventador’s naturally aspirated V12, while powerful, operates at a lower output, and its aerodynamic package is optimised for downforce and handling rather than absolute top speed.
What’s confirmed for the Aventador LP700-4
Launched in 2011 as the successor to the Murciélago, the Aventador LP700-4 introduced a new carbon-fibre monocoque chassis, pushrod suspension inspired by Formula 1, and a dramatic design reminiscent of the Countach and Reventón. The car’s 6.5-litre V12 is an all-new unit, lighter and mounted lower than its predecessor for improved handling. Lamborghini claims a dry weight of 1,575 kg, and the car comes equipped with carbon ceramic brakes, permanent four-wheel drive, and a choice of Strada, Sport, or Corsa driving modes.
- 6.5-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine
- 700 PS (690 hp) at 8,250 rpm
- Seven-speed ISR automated manual gearbox
- Permanent all-wheel drive
- 0-100 km/h in 2.9 seconds
- Official top speed: 350 km/h
Rumours and reality
While the sight of an Aventador on Veyron wheels has led to speculation, there is no official confirmation or credible evidence that Lamborghini is preparing a 400 km/h production model. The standard LP700-4’s performance figures remain unchanged, and any future high-speed variant would require major engineering changes well beyond a change of wheels.
For now, the Aventador’s 350 km/h top speed places it among the fastest production cars in the world, but the 400 km/h barrier remains the preserve of the Bugatti Veyron and a handful of specialist hypercars. Lamborghini enthusiasts awaiting a 400 km/h factory model will have to wait for official word from Sant’Agata.
