Lamborghini Calà

The Italdesign Calà, unveiled at the 1995 Geneva Motor Show, was developed as a functional research prototype for a Lamborghini 2+2 coupé with a convertible Targa-style configuration. Designed by Italdesign, the Calà explored the possibility of a compact, accessible Lamborghini positioned below the Diablo, integrating brand design cues within a more practical package. The exterior incorporated Miura-inspired headlamp geometry and a windscreen recalling the Countach, while adopting a higher roofline to increase interior volume. The cabin accommodated two adults and two children, with extensive glazing to ensure high visibility and balanced illumination. The Calà was built on an aluminum monocoque chassis, assembled using bonded panels to reduce weight and increase rigidity. Carbon-fibre body panels completed the structure. The car measured approximately 4,390 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, and 1,222 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,520 mm. The roof section consisted of removable glass panels to enable open-top driving without requiring structural modifications. The mechanical layout followed a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration. Power was supplied by a 3,961 cc Lamborghini V10 engine producing about 400 horsepower at 7,200 rpm. The unit was paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Estimated performance figures included a 0–100 km/h time of roughly 5 seconds and a top speed close to 290 km/h. The prototype weighed about 1,290 kilograms. Suspension geometry used independent double wishbones with coil springs and hydraulic dampers at both front and rear. Braking consisted of ventilated disc assemblies on all wheels. Interior design emphasized ergonomic clarity, with integrated instrumentation and supportive seating suited for extended use. The rear seats, sized for children, enabled the 2+2 layout uncommon in Lamborghini’s mid-engine history. The name “Calà,” derived from a Piedmontese expression meaning “descend,” referenced the model’s lower cylinder count and reduced displacement compared with the flagship Diablo, and suggested a more accessible position within the range. Although fully functional, the Calà did not proceed to production due to corporate changes. It later gained visibility through its inclusion in the video game Need for Speed II Special Edition.