Posted October 5, 2014 by 99MilesPerHour Ecstasy

The Prancing Horse Meets the Raging Bull

These are two of the finest supercars in existence

The Raging Bull vs The Prancing Horse…

Well, well, well…it had to happen sometime…the Raging Bull locked horns with the Prancing Horse. Meet the Raging Bull…a self-made world-wide superstar, it’s the quintessential supercar. And of course, the Prancing Horse…it’s gorgeous, what an iconic international enigma. By the way…my name is Greg, I like to write about them…which ain’t easy ‘cause when they met…it was a serendipitous technological showdown – hoof to hoof –

Two of Italy’s finest supercars compete against each other. It’s a rare arena in which they exist. High-performance, high-style, and a legendary heritage is equally shared. So it’s V12 vs V12. Will the bull gore the horse…or will the horse drop-kick the bull? This is gonna be fun. The Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 and the Ferrari F12berlinetta puts the pedal to the metal to kick up a little dust –

Runners…on your mark –

The Prancing Horse and Raging Bull are of known provenance in Italy. These world-wide celebrities do not follow status-quo…they have carved their own niche in the automotive industry. They are both considered to be at the summit of the automaker’s craft. Being the epitome of supercars they dispel ambiguity. The Prancing Horse kicks the starting gate open…the Raging Bull charges with full speed ahead…it is one indomitable spirit against the other.

Underneath the artfully sculpted carbon-fibre beats the heart of a bull. The ferocious Lambo sports the ultimate L539 naturally aspirated 48-valve DOHC 6.5 litre 60 degree V12 engine. It produces 700 hp @ 8,250 rpm packing the prolific punch with 690 Nm of peak torque @ 5,500 rpm. This precision hand-crafted engine is lightweight and amazingly compact. The crankcase is made from aluminium-silicon alloy with open deck construction and steel cylinder liners.

Its short stroke layout yields extremely high revving characteristics with low internal friction. It has heavy-duty bearings and a nitride-hardened crankshaft. The 12 pistons and connecting rods are made from forged alloy and steel to further eliminate weight. Electronically controlled variable valve timing affects both intake and exhaust phases. Its dry sump lubrication system is equipped with eight scavenger pumps to remove oil from the lower bed plate; pressure and scavenging losses are reduced by 50 percent. It uses a high-pressure oil pump.

The Electronic Control Unit (ECU) uses smart sensors to make it work faster monitoring combustion in real time. Lamborghini Iniezione Elettronica (LIE) with ion current analysis is the trade name. It uses multi-port sequential indirect injection. Each of the spark plugs are optimized by an individual ignition coil, and function as sensors. This sophisticated network enhances performance and increases fuel economy.

…Meanwhile back at the ranch, the Scuderia Stables unleashed another Prancing Horse with fury – its recalcitrant stamina is derived from a naturally aspirated 48-valve DOHC 6.3 litre 65 degree V12 engine. It produces 730 hp @ 8,250 rpm with an astounding 690 Nm of peak torque @ 6,000 rpm. The engine is equipped with 200-bar GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection), and variable valve timing that manages both intake and exhaust phases. Both intake and exhaust manifolds have been redesigned for efficiency. This precision hand-crafted engine is designed with the intent to increase performance, lower emissions, and to reduce fuel consumption. All three objectives are met making this the fastest Ferrari ever built.

The engine is placed lower into the chassis to lower the car’s center of gravity. Its dry sump method of lubrication reduces the engine’s dimensions because there is no oil pan beneath the crankcase. It has a redesigned scavenger pump enhancing its efficiency. The high compression ratio of 13.5:1 is among the highest in the industry providing asphalt shattering performance for the iconic Prancing horse.

…Get set

These two supercars focus in two different directions. The Prancing Horse takes the more refined approach where the Raging Bull goes for the jugular in performance. The Raging bull charges ahead with four-wheel drive relinquishing a slight reduction in hp, unlike the Prancing Horse with its rear-wheel drive only system. How do these two contenders transfer all of that power to the track?

Up to now the Prancing Horse and the Raging Bull are neck to neck in the powerplant rating, but it’s the transfer of power that gives the F12berlinetta the advantage. A Formula 1 inspired dual clutch 7-speed automated semi-automatic gearbox is designed specifically for the F12berlinetta with closer gear ratios. It has steering wheel mounted paddle shifts for the driver that prefers to manually shift gears.

The gearbox is integrated into the Electronic E-Diff (third generation electronic Differential) at the rear axle for better weight distribution. Its gears are arranged concentrically. The larger outer clutch manages the odd numbered gears 1, 3, 5, & 7, with the smaller clutch governing the even numbered gears 2, 4, & 6. This enables shifting without interrupting torque distribution to the drive wheels. It applies engine torque to one clutch as it is being disconnected from the other. Dual clutch gearboxes shift faster and smoother than single clutch automated-manual transmissions.

Dual clutch transmissions do not need a torque converter as in conventional epicylic-geared automatic transmissions. This type of transmission uses two oil-bathed wet or dry multi-plate clutches. The F12berlinetta’s maximum speed gear range includes: I-55 mph, II-78 mph, III-104 mph, IV-131 mph, V-165 mph, VI-202 mph, and overdrive VII-235+ mph.

The Raging Bull provides competition level performance guaranteeing superfast shifting at 50 milliseconds. The ISR (Independent Shifting Rods) transmission is a robotized gearbox. It is lighter weight than a dual clutch set-up with smaller dimensions. It isn’t as fast as the Prancing Horse’s dual clutch and somewhat clunky to operate. Motor Trend magazine refers to Lambo’s ISR gearbox as “an exercise in teeth-grinding frustration.” But then, a Raging Bull is nowhere near as graceful as a Prancing Horse…is it? (Bull in a china shop connotation)

The ISR logic is that it is a two-shaft transmission with seven forward gears and reverse. Its synchronizing rings are made from carbon-fibre. This servo-actuated mechanical gearbox uses the Independent Shifting Rods to manage the shifting sleeves, the gear wheels from the second and third gears are separate from each other. The shifting process runs parallel, one shifting rod is disengaged, as the shifting rod is engaging the next. The overlap and mechanical distances are shorter.

This system relies on four ISR’s with sensors monitoring their positions. The seven hydraulic valves use a 60-bar pressure supplied by an electric pump. The double-plate clutch is also hydraulic. All system components are housed in a single unit. The maximum speed gear range includes: I-52 mph, II-84 mph, III-114 mph, IV-140 mph, V-174 mph, VI-212 mph, and VII-218+ mph.

The Aventador LP 700-4 uses rear-biased permanent all-wheel drive. An electronically controlled Haldex coupling distributes torque between the front and rear drive components within a matter of milliseconds. This coupling adapts the torque to match the driving situation. The self-blocking rear differential and the front differential are electronically controlled by the ESP (Electronic Stability Program) for dynamic handling.

A Drive Select Mode allows the driver to choose vehicle characteristics from three modes: Strada (road), Sport, and Corsa (track). This system manages engine, transmission, differential, steering, and dynamic control. The Corsa mode includes “Launch Control” which is an automatic function for maximum acceleration from a standing start. Four wheel disc brakes stop the Raging Bull in its tracks. It is a dual hydraulic circuit braking system with vacuum brake booster. Six-piston calipers are fitted to the front axle while four-piston calipers are fitted to the rear axle.

…GO!

The Prancing Horse drop-kicked the Raging Bull in the power transfer trip. It even exhibited a few extra ‘horses’. It now kicks the starting gate open but the Raging Bull charges with full speed ahead…they both are off like a shot, in fact…the only thing faster than the two is Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation –

Longitudinal acceleration is rated as:

The relentless Lambo charges from 0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds, 0-100 mph in 6 seconds, 0-120 in 8.4 seconds, and 0-200 mph in 33.3 seconds, with a top speed of 218 mph (224 mph without governor). The Raging Bull can do the ¼ mile @ 135 mph in 10.6 seconds.

The tempestuous Prancing Horse sprints from 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds, 0-100 mph in 6.1 seconds, 0-120 mph in 8.4 seconds, and 0-200 mph in 30.3 seconds, with a top speed of 211 mph (235 mph without governor). It can kick it doing the ¼ mile @ 137 mph in 10.8 seconds.

The Raging Bull has a slight advantage. The Prancing Horse is just a few seconds shy, but it still smokes the Raging Bull without the electronic governor…they both; however race the track with tremendous verve and élan – They both huffed & puffed but couldn’t blow the other’s house down…so they compromised…and then they vowed to huff & puff and blow the doors off of the competition instead…

Pushrod suspension vs Magneto rheological fluid suspension

The ferocious Lambo rides upon a Formula 1 inspired pushrod suspension. Its intent is to convey the spirit of motorsports combined with 21^st century comfort. Some may find this type of suspension to be out of their comfort zone. It isn’t meant to replicate the Rolls Royce. After all, a vehicle travelling at speeds in excess of 200 mph needs to be ‘tight’ to maintain stability. It also must be able to stand up to the fierce thrust of the 700 hp V12 and its notorious 690 Nm of torque.

This innovative concept is a combination of a double wishbone and pushrod set-up. Wheel control and dampers remain separate. The spring/damper elements are connected in-board the body shell structure, transversely mounted under the windscreen in the front and near the engine at the rear. Pushrods and their relay levers transmit forces from the wheel mounts to the spring/damper components.

This provides a more rigid connection to the chassis enhancing precise reaction of the springs and dampers. The front set-up uses a sophisticated hydraulic lifting system to allow the vehicle to avoid obstacles and is available at the touch of a button. The entire suspension system is constructed from forged aluminium alloy. This includes upper and lower control arms, wheel mounts, and relay levers.

Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 pushrod suspension

The Ferrari F12berlinetta’s magneto rheological fluid suspension

A high-tech SCM-E magneto rheological fluid suspension puts the pep in the Prancing Horse’s step. This system uses electronic dampers filled with a fluid containing magnetic particles. The dampers are controlled by algorithms specifically designed for this system. The algorithms control the yield point shear stress of the magneto rheological fluid with the electromagnetic current.

When this ‘smart’ fluid is brought into a magnetic field, its viscosity is changed making the fluid stiffer. The greater the electromagnetic current, the stiffer the damper’s properties. Reduction of the current softens the dampers. This electronic network is monitored by sensors placed throughout the suspension to continually adapt the dampers to various road conditions.

Some journalists prefer the magneto rheological fluid suspension over the pushrod version. Each system is suited to the car’s personality. The Prancing Horse is the more refined supercar whereas the Raging Bull exudes brute force. Naturally, the Raging Bull’s suspension is not designed to cosset its passengers as the Prancer…the Lambo is designed to ‘bogard’ its way through the drive –

Beauty is more than skin deep…

The Raging bull is an aerodynamic wedge of raw power. Every line and contour of its sculpted architecture has a clear function. It not only battles wind turbulence it also uses it to maintain stability as well as cooling the engine and brakes. A unique system of electronically adjustable air vents and grilles create downforce and effectively manages airflow around the vehicle.

The smooth underside also plays a key role in its aerodynamics by directing the airflow. The nose incorporates anti-lift geometry as the rear manages downforce and stability with anti-squat geometry. From its sharply honed front end styling through the avant-garde sweep of the roofline back to its distinctive rear diffuser, the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 is a breathtaking example of automotive art. You GO Lambo!

More Lamborghini innovation includes the use of a unique “start/stop” system in the Aventador LP 700-4. The energy for restarts following a stop phase such as a red light is delivered by high performance capacitors called supercaps. They enable a quick restart, V12 power is restored in an imperceptible 180 milliseconds. This technology is significantly faster than with conventional systems.

The Cylinder Deactivation System (CDS) allows the engine to run as an inline six cylinder; the CDS deactivates one cylinder bank at certain speeds. The slightest touch to the accelerator restores all 12 cylinders imperceptibly. Both the start/stop system and CDS act quickly and are virtually unnoticeable during operation to the driver having no negative impact on the overall driving experience. The benefit of efficiency is noticeable with less fuel consumption and reduction in emissions as much as 20%.

The Raging Bull is built by monocoque construction. The occupant cell, tub, and roof are fused together as a single entity. The front and rear subframes are made of aluminium. This impressive combination yields a strong yet lightweight structure.

The Lambo’s bodyshell is made from carbon-fibre. Sant’ Agata Bolognese is the only automaker to have fully mastered this technology, many of these patented processes were pioneered by the brand. The CFRP (Carbon-Fibre Reinforced Polymer) process is produced in-house.

Components made from this technology combine the lowest possible weight with excellent material characteristics. They are light, extremely rigid, and exceptionally precise. Another interesting feature is that CFRP materials can be formed into highly complex components with integrated functionality. This reduces the number of individual parts which enables further weight reduction.

The Prancing Horse and its romantic Italian design is an aerodynamic envelope of stamina. While some auto manufacturers are building their architecture from carbon-fibre, the Prancing Horse sports a bodyshell and spaceframe made from 12 different types of aluminium alloy. The F12berlinetta’s architecture is an extreme aerodynamic network designed in collaboration with Pininfarina. After lessons learned in the wind tunnel and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, the engineers managed to achieve downforce boosted by 76 percent and reducing the drag coefficient to a mere 0.299. Aerodynamics are integrated discretely into the F12berlinetta’s overall design.

The Prancer’s front end uses a sophisticated approach to generate downforce. The Aero Bridge uses the bonnet to generate downforce with an ingenious induction system. It channels air away from the upper portions of the car back to its flanks where it interacts with the force from the rear wheels to decrease drag. Part of this aerodynamic network serves to cool the brakes; Active Brake Cooling is activated only at high operating temperatures through vents that open only when the brakes are hot. This is another measure to reduce the overall drag coefficient. Its alloy spaceframe which evolved from the Scaglietti combined with a lightweight bodyshell results in a 20 percent increase in structural rigidity as it reduces weight.

The rear is highlighted by a modern version of the “Kamm tail.” It is formed by body contours that continue to a tail that ends abruptly; thus, reducing the drag of the vehicle. The F12berlinetta uses this technology as it integrates the two vertical fences of the diffuser resulting in a “T” shape. The full LED circular taillamps and F1-inspired fog lamps add further sophistication to its styling. This 21^st century Flagship is clothed in sleek aggressive lines…it offers superb occupant space and comfort despite its compact dimensions. Cheers to the iconic Prancing Horse…long may it reign!

The F12berlinetta has a tight 107.1” wheelbase. The seats and dash are mounted lower into the chassis, which lowers the vehicle’s center of gravity – all too important for a high-speed supercar. This fact combined with its aerodynamic efficiency, set new standards. Its new suspension and gearbox layout help to reduce the car’s rear volume. The mid-front mounted engine compliments its ideal weight distribution, 54 percent of which is over the rear axle. With advanced vehicle architecture, the F12berlinetta redefined the Ferrari V12 to new levels of supremacy & exclusivity in a supercar.

Vehicle dynamics coordinate with driver. The F12berlinetta uses a synergistic approach to vehicle management. Its F1-inspired sophisticated magneto rheological fluid suspension (SCM-E), the 7-speed gearbox, and electronic vehicle control systems (E-diff, ESP Premium, F1-Trac stability system & high performance ABS) are integrated into a single fast responding CPU with new model specific software. It is equipped with the latest version carbon-ceramic braking system (CCM3) which is also part of this “thinking” network to coordinate man with machine –

As far as aesthetics, The Raging Bull and The Prancing horse are equally appealing, so they are both winners in the design category. How could anyone dislike either? They are unique and distinctive each in their own manner. Besides these two carry a vengeance: the Raging Bull will charge without warning…and the Prancing Horse will kick-box if provoked – Few vehicles qualify to challenge these ferocious supercars…

Four of the most enviable seats in the world…in two vehicles

The Prancing Horse has a cockpit that augments Ferrari’s man/machine, woman/machine interface. All pertinent information is available to the driver at a glance. Steering wheel mounted controls include the manettino switch and the start button. This Formula 1 inspired set-up allows the driver to remain focused upon the road ahead. Paddle shifts are mounted behind the steering wheel for the true performance enthusiast that prefers to shift manually.

The ultra-sleek cabin is as luxurious as it is sporty. The fluidity of the trim lines make the eye travel from surface to surface. It’s tasteful elegance befitting a supercar. The Prancing Horse once again, exhibits refinement for the interior as well as the exterior. The cabin is optimized to ensure maximum space utilization. Aeronautical-inspired carbon-fibre and light alloy vents accent the dash. The ergonomically designed seats are upholstered in luxurious Frau Leather. The Prancing Horse kicks it with style.

Ferrari F12berlinetta

The Lambo’s aviation-inspired cockpit is surprisingly roomy. Its controls are logically arranged on the center console. Aircraft-style instrumentation is presented on a TFT-LCD screen. At the touch of a button the driver may choose to view the car’s speed of the engine speed. Beneath a red switch cover is the start button that instantly brings the ferocious V12 to life. A second seven-inch TFT-LCD screen is mounted in the center console for the integrated multimedia system. Also housed in the center console are the power window switches, A/C controls, and the system switch for the front axle lift. A parking assistance system with proximity sensors front and rear with a reversing camera is standard.

The Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4

The Aventador LP 700-4 is equipped with a comprehensive array of electronic vehicle entertainment and communication systems. An innovative automatic climate control system functions with a sunlight sensor. The automatic headlamp system is also controlled by sensors. The bi-xenon headlamps are equipped with daytime running lamps. The rear taillamps are made from the LED technology. Six front thorax, head & knee airbags are standard. A 135 watt Lamborghini premium audio system is available.

Ergonomically designed seating upholstered in leather compliments the aggressive look of the cabin. The full leather interior is available in single color with contrast stitching. A two-tone version is available in two style lines called Bicolore Sportivo and Bicolore Elegante and is available through the Sant ‘Agata Bolognese Ad Personam program. This highly bespoke supercar can be as unique as its owner’s personality.

The iconic Prancing Horse and the famous Raging Bull are two of the finest supercars in the world. They are alike yet unique in their own way. The Prancing Horse is a refined supercar with stamina whereas the Raging Bull exudes brute force. They are practically neck to neck with V12 power, 21^st century technology, and drop-dead gorgeous architecture. The Prancing Horse kicks open the starting gate as the Raging Bull charges full speed ahead. You be the judge as they summarize their existence in the supercar arena…

“It’s the same old thing, I’m not surprised…I’m a hit with all the guys – they all dream about me…as a Prancing Horse of independent means, I’m the face on magazines…bet you’ve heard about me…”

“I’m no Cinderfella don’t steal my glory, it’s my song…it’s my story…notorious – so scandalous…I’m so masterful – I hit high-revs…I scorch the tracks…I am the Raging Bull…”

“…Anything that’s for the press…really, I must confess – I’m that front page story, so – you’re both mistaken…those guys are fakin’ both you cars are out…’cause I am the Bugatti and it’s me it’s all about – wo-ho!”