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Lamborghini Gallardo

When the Gallardo arrived in 2003, longtime Lambo fans' hearts sank: Where was the massive spoiler? What about those famous scissor doors? It was a significant sign, however. The marque had grown up, and instead of a dream ride for 12-year-old boys, the company had produced the best-looking, best-driving model in its history. A mid-mounted V-10 sends 520 hp[spell out?] through four wheels, powering the trim wedge—it's several inches shorter than a 911—to 60 mph in around four seconds. And it feels solid and surefooted getting there (if a bit heavy and hard to push to the limits), while its excellent build quality and Audi-like interior (courtesy of Lambo's corporate parent) banish all thoughts of the Santa Agata–built rattletraps of yesteryear. If the model's splashy colors are too garish for your tastes, try it in black—it goes with everything, like a bat out of hell.
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Base price: $175,000
Configuration: Two-door, mid-engine, all-wheel-drive coupe
Engine: 5.0-liter DOHC 40-valve V-10
Power and torque: 520 hp at 8000 rpm, 376 lb-ft at 4250 rpm
Curb weight: 3,550 lb