Car Statistics: Lamborghini - Gallardo Series 03 (4 stars)

Styling (5 stars)

Gorgeous from every angle. The Gallardo's styling has the ability to stop entire streets in their tracks.

Handling (4 stars)

Enormous grip levels are assured by the standard four-wheel drive system, although the Gallardo snaps when the limit eventually arrives.

Comfort (3 stars)

You don't buy a supercar for limo-like refinement, but the Gallardo rides reasonably well, the driving position is comfortable and it's ultra-stable at high speeds.

Quality (4 stars)

Audi engineering ensures the Gallardo is far better assembled than the Lamborghinis that preceded it, although buyers will find themselves facing various bits of VW switchgear.

Performance (5 stars)

The yowling mid-mounted V10 engine delivers searing pace and an amazing soundtrack. Tunnels are a very special experience.

Roominess (2 stars)

Access is a bit of a squeeze for taller occupants and the cabin isn't exactly roomy. Luggage space is tiny.

Costs (1 star)

In a word, scary. Despite its baby status, this Lambo is anything but cheap to run. Servicing, insurance and depreciation are all massively expensive, making the 15 mpg fuel economy the least of a buyer's worries...

Value (2 stars)

Depends how much value you place on the Lamborghini badge: Audi R8 does much of the same job for a massive saving while the Ferrari 430 trumps the Gallardo on desirabilty.

Stereo (3 stars)

Audi-derived audio system gives reasonable performance, although it struggles to make itself heard over the engine at high speed. Satnav is expensive but works reasonably well.