2006 Lamborghini P400 Miura Concept
Such characteristics would be deemed unacceptable in today’s heavily regulated world, therefore the new Miura incorporates modern aerodynamics in its bodywork, the likes of which was unknown back in the ’60s. Where the original’s nose was as sharp as an arrowhead, the Concept has a more complicated air dam, featuring splitters to direct airflow around, rather than under the car in order to keep its front end glued to the ground. Additionally, because a rear spoiler would ruin the classic lines of the Miura Concept, it features a smooth underbody for reduced underside drag and improved downforce.
I must commend Mr. de’Silva on his artistic talent; like the original the Miura Concept looks like it’s going 300 km/h even when standing still, which may or may not be all it’s ever likely to be seen doing. Yes, initially it was announced that the Miura Concept was merely a styling exercise. And for all the dreams that may have come true for de’Silva in redesigning the vehicle, there wasn’t anything to report in terms of its powertrain either. No, not a word was said about the gearbox or engine because the Miura Concept, as seen in Detroit, was just a full-size mockup, albeit a very beautiful one. While official photos don’t show the interior due to the deep-tint glass, Lamborghini says that the original car heavily inspired the cabin. We can only imagine.
Since the time of its launch at Detroit, however, insiders at Lamborghini have revealed that the LP400 Miura Concept is now well on its way to becoming a limited-edition road car. The basic bones for the Miura will come from the ‘baby’ Lambo, the Gallardo, but with a frame stretched length- and width-wise to accommodate a larger passenger cabin, plus space for a V12. Technically, this sounds like a lot of work, but under the guidance of Volkswagen Auto Group it’s a lot less than you might think. It has been long known that Audi would receive dividends for its part in funding the Gallardo project way back when, and those dividends would be paid in the form of its own supercar, the R8. Of course, Audi’s version would feature the trademark ASF space frame, and Audi’s own engines and gearboxes, but its larger footprint is perfect for the Miura.