03.10.2004 Automobili Lamborghini are being represented at the Paris Mondial de l'Automobile by the new Murcielago Roadster

Lamborghini are being represented at the 2004 Paris Mondial de l'Automobile by just a single model, the new Murcielago-based Roadster.

The Murcielago Roadster was first previewed as a concept at the North American Motor Show in Detroit a year last January to judge interest. It was officially introduced as a production proposition at the Geneva Salon back in March this year.

This new model now adds a third line, unprecedented in recent times, to the Audi-owned, Italian sportscar maker's range. This new era kicked off three years ago with the arrival of the 6.2-litre V12 Murcielago coupe, while last year saw the introduction of the mid-size 5.0-litre V10 Gallardo, a car that immediately went head-to-head with the segment-leading Ferrari 360 Modena.

Lamborghini have a strong history of building open-topped sportscars. Throughout the illustrious lifetime of the marque there have been famous examples, most recently there being an open version of the Murcielago's predecessor, the Diablo.

This new car is no different to this tradition, the design team having worked had to create a genuine open topped car, steering clear of the 'coupe with a chopped off roof' effect that is so often portrayed by roadsters.

The redesigned engine cover and the shrouded roll hoops, which sweep swiftly rearwards, are both sharply angular features, very much adhering to Lamborghini's current styling philosophies, while the low windscreen line and corresponding side windows combine to create a sleek appearance.

by Edd Ellison