Lamborghinis: Grab the bull by the horns

By Petrina Gentile Zucco

Would you ever drive a Lamborghini in winter? To the average Canadian, the question is ridiculous, but not to Automobili Lamborghini. The manufacturer of high-performance sports cars is trying to drive home the message – Lamborghinis can tackle any season. To prove it, Lamborghini launched a Winter Driving Academy in Italy last year. The goal: to showcase Lamborghinis' ride and handling in the worst possible driving conditions. The school was such a hit on home turf they brought it to the United States. Officials chose an area known for its notorious winter weather: Mt. Washington in New Hampshire. Unfortunately, Mother Nature hadn't wreaked havoc on the area yet – no snow, no gusting winds, just sunshine and near double-digit temperatures. Not exactly the ideal backdrop for Lamborghini to strut its stuff, but officials made the most of it.

Admittedly, I have my reservations about the school. What's the point? Who would ever drive a Lamborghini on a salted, snow-covered winter road? My mind shifts to the matter at hand. At the local airport, six journalists gather for a briefing on the Lamborghini Gallardo. Both coupes and Spyder convertibles are up for grabs. In a whirlwind, Giorgio Sanna, the Academy's chief instructor, jumps into the driver's seat of a Gallardo coupe. He puts the pedal to the metal, whips around the pylons. The Gallardo slides sideways viscously, but Sanna quickly regains control. The stench of burning tires fills the air.

Next, it's my turn. Sweat rolls down the small of my back. Luckily all Lambor-ghinis have permanent 4-wheel drive – a welcome feature at the moment. I follow the same route, travelling a snail's pace compared to Sanna. At the bend, I steer sharply to the left and hit the throttle hard. The vehicle's balance is totally off-kilter. No time to think – just brake, counter steer, look at where I want to go. The Gallardo stabilizes quickly. Thanks to the vehicle's electronic stability program (ESP) and some solid Pirelli winter tires.

Next task: breaking and obstacle avoidance. Hit the throttle and accelerate fast. No problem – the Gallardo coupe hits 0-100 km in only 4.2 seconds. The braking point is marked with two large pylons. When you reach it, slam the brakes, steer sharply, and avoid hitting the cones littered everywhere. It takes a few attempts to master the feat. I brake too early, believing the Gallardo won't stop fast. But I'm wrong. It brakes as fast as it accelerates. According to the instructor, the 1,430 kg Gallardo coupe can reach a dead stop from 100 km/hr in only 34 metres.

The Lamborghini Winter Academy is an adrenaline-rush and the Gallardo is a powerful and safe vehicle that can handle any obstacle in its path. Granted I still wouldn't drive a $257,900 Gallardo coupe on a wintry Canadian road, but it's nice to know I can. And if you can't afford the price tag but love Lamborghinis, this is a great way to grab the bull by the horns. The Academy in New Hampshire costs $2,500 US (including one night accommodation). Classes begin this month. Visit www.lamborghini-academy.com.

Petrina Gentile Zucco is one of Canada’s top auto reviewers.

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