A Raging Bull

"Shake off the long, cold winter and soak up some sun and fresh air."

Stab the throttle of the incredible 2010 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder and hold on for an amazing ride as 560 horsepower launches you to 60 miles per hour in less than four seconds. Squeeze the brakes, tap the left paddle shifter once or twice for a lower gear as you turn into a curve with a simple flick of the wrist, and then roll back onto the throttle as the 10-cylinder symphony lets out a raucous wail behind you, all the way to its 8,000 RPM redline. A high tech all wheel drive system keeps the wheels planted firmly on the ground with amazing grip, the wind rushes past the open cockpit, and the entire experience firms your belief that investing nearly a quarter of a million dollars in this stunning machine is the best way to celebrate the return of your portfolio or annual bonus, and the ultimate toy to help shake off the long, cold winter and soak up some sun and fresh air.

As the company named for founder Ferruccio Lamborghini nears 50, its cars still embody his vision of building vehicles that surpass all others in looks and performance without the financial and comfort compromises he felt buyers experienced with his fellow Italian rival, Ferrari. Pull up to any valet in this magnificent machine with the raging bull on the hood and your message is clear: "Yes, I have worked my way to the top. Yes, I have survived the recession. And no, I am not afraid to show it."

In its upgraded LP form (the letters stand for Longitudinale Posteriore, or rear engine aligned front to back), this hot convertible borrows design features from the exclusive Murciélago Reventón, such as the supersize air intakes on the front fascia and the low front spoiler that helps keep the car firmly on the ground. Other enhancements that set it apart from the original "common" Gallardo include new headlamps with Y-shaped LED running lights, rear lights inspired by recent concept cars, and a redesigned backside with an enhanced rear diffuser. The new styling also improves aerodynamics, helping the car achieve even better handling and stability, and the updated model is both stronger and lighter (by 44 pounds) than the original. More power and faster shifts combine with a re-tuned suspension to give the LP a significant performance boost.

"Compared to other performance cars, the Gallardo has a ton of low end torque, and the all wheel drive system helps it handle better than any other car," explains Monte Patterson, General Manager at Lamborghini Orlando, as he carves up a road in central Florida. He emphasized that its AWD system and safety systems help drivers enjoy the limits of the car's stellar performance.

Indeed, this Lambo accelerates like a beast and rips off instantaneous shifts when you grab the next gear with the F1 style E.Gear shift paddle. it handles as if it can read your thoughts, and if quarter mile times in the 11 second range aren't a strong enough boast, its 200 MPH top speed is a rare credential for cars in this price range. Top-up or top-down, the Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder is the perfect accessory to help you enjoy your summer, whether you wish to flaunt your success, or merely reward it.

The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder is the perfect summer accessory to help shake off financial woes.

The Affluent Page is the global resource for luxury products and services.