The Lamborghini Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae marks the definitive final chapter for the brand's iconic non-hybrid naturally aspirated V12 engine. Blending the raw track capability of the SVJ with the refined elegance of the S, this limited-run machine outputs 780 horsepower from its 6.5-liter powerplant. Production was strictly capped at 350 coupes and 250 roadsters worldwide, making it an instant collector car for enthusiasts who value pure internal combustion.
Powertrain and Performance Metrics
At the heart of the car sits a roaring 6.5-liter V12 that revs all the way to 8,500 rpm. It pushes out 780 CV (769 horsepower) and 720 Nm of torque at 6,750 rpm. Power reaches all four wheels through a seven-speed Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) automated manual transmission.
- Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 2.8 seconds.
- Reaching 200 km/h happens in 8.7 seconds.
- Top speed maxes out at 355 km/h.
Stopping power matches the straight-line speed thanks to standard carbon-ceramic brakes. Bringing the car down from 100 km/h to a complete stop requires just 30 meters. The dry weight sits at 1,550 kilograms, giving the car a favorable power-to-weight ratio. You don't get turbochargers or hybrid battery packs here—just pure throttle response and mechanical noise.
Design Evolution and Aerodynamics
The exterior styling draws from a decade of Aventador evolution. Designers combined the high-performance aerodynamic package of the SVJ with the clean lines of the original LP 700-4. A front splitter and active rear wing manage airflow across varying speeds. The rear wing adjusts into three distinct positions depending on drive mode and vehicle velocity.
Inside the cabin, carbon fiber dominates the trim. Distinct numbering plaques indicate each unit's place in the limited production run. Alcantara upholstery covers the seats and dash, featuring a unique Y-motif laser-cut graphic that distinguishes the Ultimae from earlier variants. You'll find the infotainment interface familiar if you've spent time in modern Sant'Agata Bolognese products, offering Apple CarPlay and telemetry options.
Driving Dynamics and Handling
Handling relies on a sophisticated setup featuring Lamborghini Dynamic Steering (LDS) and rear-wheel steering. The rear-wheel steering system turns the back wheels in the opposite direction of the front wheels at low speeds to tighten cornering. At high speeds, they turn in the same phase to enhance stability.
Four distinct driving modes alter the character of the machine:
- Strada: Prioritizes everyday comfort, softer damper settings, and predictable all-wheel-drive torque splits.
- Sport: Sends more power to the rear wheels, sharpens throttle response, and loosens stability control thresholds.
- Corsa: Optimizes tracking performance for circuit use with maximum firmness and aggressive gear shifts.
- Ego: Allows drivers to customize individual parameters for steering, suspension, and powertrain behavior.
Maintenance and Ownership Realities
Owning a low-volume exotic requires careful planning. Routine services must happen at certified Lamborghini service centers using specialized diagnostic equipment.
- Annual Service Costs: Expect high four-figure or five-figure bills for routine fluid changes, clutch inspections, and tire replacements.
- Tire Wear: The Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires (255/30 ZR20 front and 355/25 ZR21 rear) wear quickly under aggressive driving and require periodic replacement to maintain grip.
- Clearance Issues: Ground clearance sits at 115 mm, but the nose-lifting system raises the front end by 40 mm to clear speed bumps and steep driveways.
Common mistakes new owners make include neglecting the dry-sump oil warm-up procedure before pushing high RPMs, and underestimating fuel consumption during spirited canyon runs. Always let the oil temperature reach optimal operating ranges before exploring the upper limits of the tachometer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Lamborghini Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae models were built?
Production totaled 600 units globally, split evenly between 350 coupes and 250 roadsters.
Is the Ultimae heavier or lighter than the Aventador S?
It weighs 25 kilograms less than the Aventador S, matching the dry weight of the hardcore SVJ model at 1,550 kg.
Does the Ultimae feature hybrid assistance?
No. This model proudly utilizes a purely internal combustion V12 engine without any electrical motors or battery packs.
What transmission does the Ultimae use?
It uses the single-clutch 7-speed Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) automated manual gearbox rather than a dual-clutch setup.