Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
Compare the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is £0 cheaper. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is 0.6s quicker to 60mph. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is more fuel efficient. Full performance, cost & ownership breakdown.
The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 is priced from £95,000, powered by a 5.2L V10, producing 552 hp, with 540 Nm of torque, reaching 0-62 mph in 3.7 s, a top speed of 202 mph, sent to the road via all-wheel drive. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is priced from £145,000, powered by a 3.6L e-turbo flat-six T-Hybrid, producing 534 hp, with 610 Nm of torque, reaching 0-62 mph in 3.1 s, a top speed of 194 mph, sent to the road via all-wheel drive.
The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 offers a 110-litre boot, a usable front boot, runs on petrol, returns around 19 mpg, is covered by a 2yr / unlimited mi warranty. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS offers a 135-litre boot, a usable front boot, runs on petrol, returns around 26 mpg, is covered by a 3 years / unlimited miles (original UK new-car cover) warranty.
On cost of ownership, the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is £0 cheaper than its rival, the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS costs less in annual maintenance (£3,000 versus £1,500), the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is the more fuel-efficient choice, the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS has 63 L fuel tank.
Driving Character: Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
The Lamborghini Gallardo defines the modern entry into the V10 exotic segment, offering a willing, high-revving engine that provides an unforgettable auditory experience. The LP560-generation all-wheel-drive system provides immense mechanical grip, allowing for confident deployment of power even in variable road conditions. While the chassis lacks the adaptive electronic damping and sophisticated geometry of modern successors, it remains tactile and communicative. Gear shifts, particularly in early models, require an adjustment to the single-clutch robotic system, but the connection between the throttle and the rear wheels provides a rewarding, if demanding, driving dynamic.
The 992.2 Targa 4 GTS uses a 3.6-litre flat-six with an electrically assisted exhaust turbocharger and an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed PDK. The combustion engine supplies 357 kW and 570 Nm; combined system output is 398 kW and 610 Nm. All-wheel drive, rear-axle steering and PASM form part of the published chassis specification.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 — V10 character with sharp, willing throttle response and an unforgettable note; the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS — The 992.2 Targa 4 GTS combines a 3.6-litre electrically turbocharged flat-six with T-Hybrid assistance and all-wheel drive.. Characteristic of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4: LP560 all-wheel drive offers strong traction in all conditions. For the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS: Targa roof mechanism; chassis rigidity remains high despite the open-top architectural change. In outright terms it is 552 hp against 534 — a 18 hp gap — and the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS reaches 60 mph 0.6s sooner.
Interior & Cabin: Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
The cabin is compact and purposeful, reflecting a design era where ergonomics were focused solely on the driving task. The seating position is low, connecting the driver directly to the car's movements, while the materials feel durable despite their age. The infotainment system is rudimentary by contemporary standards, often seen as a secondary component to the primary task of driving. While it lacks the expansive glass and digital displays found in today's exotics, the Gallardo’s cockpit is refreshingly simple, providing an unobstructed focus on the road ahead without the distraction of overly complex menus or digital interfaces.
The cabin of the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is dominated by the iconic Targa bar, which provides a unique open-air experience while maintaining structural integrity. The interior is finished to a high standard, with premium materials and the intuitive, driver-centric layout that characterises the 992 generation. While the Targa bar creates a stylish aesthetic, it does restrict rear visibility somewhat. The technology, including the standard Bose audio, is well-integrated and provides a modern feel. It is a sophisticated, high-quality environment that balances luxury with the functional needs of a performance-oriented driver.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 — Compact, purposeful cabin; seats feel connected to the road; the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS — Luxury ergonomics; tech-focused cabin environment balances modern comfort with driver engagement features. Characteristic of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4: Best-selling Lamborghini of its era; well-sorted ergonomics for owners. For the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS: High-quality leather and trim; interior refinement provides a quiet environment when closed.
Daily Usability: Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
As a more compact option than the contemporary V12 flagships, the Gallardo is significantly easier to navigate in urban environments. The footprint is manageable for tight spaces, and the visibility is surprisingly clear compared to the Aventador. While the suspension in the LP560 trim is relatively stiff, making for a jarring experience on poor roads, it is entirely viable for errands and weekend trips. The presence of a usable, albeit small, luggage compartment in the front adds a layer of practicality that distinguishes it from more extreme, limited-edition hypercars of the same era.
Practicality is a major strength of the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS, as it offers the security of all-wheel drive and the joy of an open top. This combination makes it a genuinely usable car for all seasons, functioning perfectly as a daily driver. The rear seats offer occasional space for children or extra storage, and the front trunk is surprisingly capacious. While the roof mechanism does impact boot space when fully retracted, the overall design remains very user-friendly. It is a refined, comfortable cruiser that does not sacrifice its sporty character in the pursuit of daily usability.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 — Compact dimensions for a Lamborghini; easier in urban than Murciélago; the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS — The manufacturer technical sheet lists 135 litres of front luggage volume; rear stowage is a separate figure.. Characteristic of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4: A front luggage compartment provides space for small soft bags. For the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS: 110 mm clearance ensures daily usability; ride quality absorbs common road imperfections well. that means 110 litres of boot space against 135, and everyday running costs that favour the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS at the pumps.
Ownership: Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
Gallardo ownership is a gateway to the Lamborghini brand, supported by a wide and well-established network of independent specialists. This accessibility helps in managing maintenance costs, which are significantly lower than those associated with V12 models. While parts remain relatively easy to source, the age of the platform necessitates regular, thorough health checks, particularly regarding the drivetrain and electronic systems. Values have stabilised, making it an attractive proposition for those entering the exotic market, though prospective owners should prioritise vehicles with complete service histories to avoid the potential pitfalls of older exotics.
The 992.2 Targa 4 GTS combines the Targa roof system with the newer T-Hybrid powertrain. Service requirements must be checked against the exact model year and market. Its electric turbocharger and transmission-integrated motor distinguish its servicing needs from the earlier GTS. Warranty and repair costs depend on the applicable contract, vehicle history and market.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 — Gallardo values have stabilised; entry-level exotic Lamborghini ownership; the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS — Reliable Porsche drivetrain; servicing is supported by a comprehensive dealer network infrastructure. Characteristic of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4: Wide independent specialist support reduces reliance on dealer network. For the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS: Strong resale market; combination of Targa style and GTS performance maintains desirability. On the wallet the two diverge at £95,000 versus £145,000 — a £50,000 difference, with annual maintenance of £3,000 against £1,500, and warranty cover of 2yr / unlimited mi versus 3 years / unlimited miles (original UK new-car cover).
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