2017 Lamborghini Centenario Roadster: A Rare V12 Hypercar Masterpiece
The 2017 Lamborghini Centenario Roadster stands as one of the most exclusive and technologically advanced open-top V12 hypercars ever created by the Italian marque. Built to honor the 100th anniversary of the birth of Lamborghini’s founder, Ferruccio Lamborghini, the Centenario Roadster represents a celebration of extreme performance engineering, dramatic design and uncompromising craftsmanship. With only 20 units produced, the Roadster variant is even rarer than its coupe counterpart, making it one of the most desirable limited-production Lamborghinis of the modern era.
Serving as a technological showcase, the Centenario Roadster integrates next-generation aerodynamics, a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine revving past 8,000 rpm, advanced carbon-fiber construction and the debut of Lamborghini’s rear-wheel steering system in a hypercar application. It is simultaneously a tribute car, a collector’s masterpiece and a forward-looking performance machine that previewed a new era of Lamborghini engineering. The Roadster elevates the emotional intensity of the Centenario Coupe, offering open-air exhilaration and deeper connection to the V12’s symphonic soundtrack.
Gallery: 2017 Lamborghini Centenario Roadster
With its futuristic aesthetics, lightweight construction and limited availability, the 2017 Centenario Roadster stands today as one of the most significant commemorative models in Lamborghini’s history.
A Design That Pushes the Boundaries of Aerodynamics and Art
The 2017 Lamborghini Centenario Roadster is more than a convertible hypercar—it is a functional piece of automotive art. Lamborghini’s design team ensured the Roadster captured the same aggressive styling as the Coupe while embracing open-top elegance. The car’s sharp lines, exposed carbon-fiber surfaces and extreme aerodynamic architecture make it instantly recognizable as a limited-series Lamborghini masterpiece.
The front end features a highly technical and angular design with sharp aerodynamic channels, a pronounced splitter and deep air intakes that optimize airflow into the radiators and underbody. The Centenario Roadster’s sculpted front profile enhances downforce while maintaining visual drama consistent with Lamborghini’s design ethos.
Along the sides, the floating aerodynamic elements, deep Y-shaped design motifs and wide carbon-fiber sills give the Roadster an unforgettable presence. The open-roof configuration integrates seamlessly into the design thanks to the Roadster’s removable lightweight carbon panels, which can be stored in the front luggage compartment. The car retains a sense of unity and sharpness even without a roof, showcasing Lamborghini’s precision engineering.
The rear design is among the most extreme ever seen on a Lamborghini. A massive diffuser spans the entire width of the vehicle, incorporating aggressive vertical fins that help channel airflow and maximize stability at high speeds. The hexagonal quad-exhaust outlets, full-width LED light bar and exposed cooling systems emphasize the Centenario Roadster’s track-ready character.
The design is not merely aesthetic—it is engineered to generate exceptional downforce and reduce drag, making it one of the most aerodynamically advanced Lamborghini models ever created.
The Mighty Naturally Aspirated V12: A Mechanical Symphony
At the heart of the 2017 Centenario Roadster lies a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine derived from the Aventador’s powerplant but tuned for higher output and sharper throttle response. Producing 770 horsepower at 8,500 rpm, this V12 remains one of Lamborghini’s most emotional and raw engines. It revs freely, unleashes a spine-tingling exhaust note and delivers immediate power without turbocharging or electrification.
The Centenario Roadster rockets from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds—identical to the coupe—thanks to optimized weight distribution, advanced traction control and a lightning-quick Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) 7-speed transmission. Its top speed exceeds 350 km/h, supported by advanced cooling, aerodynamic stability and the sheer mechanical force of the V12.
What makes the Roadster particularly special is the acoustic experience. With the roof removed, the driver and passenger are fully immersed in the V12’s naturally aspirated crescendo. Induction noise, exhaust resonance and mechanical vibrations become part of the driving theater, offering a visceral experience unmatched by most modern hypercars.
The Centenario Roadster’s V12 stands as one of the last—and greatest—non-electrified engines in Lamborghini history, representing pure mechanical passion before the brand’s transition into hybridization.
Carbon-Fiber Innovation: Engineering Excellence in Lightweight Performance
The Centenario Roadster is constructed entirely from carbon fiber, resulting in an exceptionally lightweight yet rigid chassis. Lamborghini engineers optimized the monocoque structure for strength, torsional rigidity and agility. Every body panel—from the front fascia to the distinctive rear diffuser—is crafted from carbon fiber using advanced manufacturing techniques, reducing weight and improving performance.
This lightweight construction contributes directly to acceleration, cornering dynamics and braking. The carbon-fiber monocoque also supports the open-top configuration, ensuring the Roadster maintains structural integrity without needing excessive reinforcement.
The interior also features extensive carbon fiber elements. From the center console to the seat frames and door panels, the use of carbon fiber maintains the Centenario Roadster’s lightweight philosophy while contributing to its futuristic aesthetic.
Lamborghini’s Rear-Wheel Steering Debut: A Technological Milestone
The 2017 Centenario Roadster debuted Lamborghini’s rear-wheel steering system—an innovation that dramatically enhances driving agility and stability. At low speeds, the rear wheels turn opposite the front wheels, reducing the turning radius and improving maneuverability. At high speeds, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front, enhancing directional stability and control during rapid lane changes or high-speed cornering.
This system transforms the driving dynamics of the Centenario Roadster, allowing it to behave like a much smaller, more agile supercar. Combined with the active aerodynamic features and advanced ESC calibration, the Roadster delivers sharp, precise handling without compromising stability.
The introduction of rear-wheel steering in the Centenario Roadster marked a major engineering leap for Lamborghini, later implemented in the Aventador S and subsequent models.
Interior Craftsmanship: Futuristic and Bespoke
Inside, the 2017 Centenario Roadster blends futuristic digital interfaces with handcrafted Italian luxury. The cabin features a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system—one of the most advanced systems of its era—providing navigation, media connectivity and telemetry data.
Carbon-fiber sport seats offer a race-inspired design while maintaining comfort for long-distance driving. Premium leather, Alcantara, contrast stitching and customizable interior trims allow each Centenario Roadster to be uniquely configured.
Exclusive features include a state-of-the-art telemetry system, allowing drivers to record, monitor and analyze performance data. This combination of handcrafted materials and cutting-edge technology underscores Lamborghini’s ambition to create a hypercar that is both luxurious and performance-oriented.
Driving Experience: Raw, Emotional and Precision-Tuned
Driving the 2017 Lamborghini Centenario Roadster is an emotional journey. The V12 engine responds instantly, the rear-wheel steering sharpens every corner, and the aerodynamic systems provide unwavering stability. The car’s low seating position, aggressive posture and direct steering create an intimate connection with the road.
With the roof removed, the driving experience becomes even more immersive. Wind rush, induction noise and exhaust resonance create an intense sensory experience that few cars can replicate.
Despite its hypercar positioning, the Centenario Roadster remains surprisingly composed during everyday driving. Adaptive suspension, advanced traction systems and refined road manners make it manageable—though its personality always remains aggressive, loud and purpose-built.
The Roadster embodies the soul of Lamborghini’s most extreme engineering while offering open-air theater for the driver and passenger.
Read: The Bugatti Bolide: A Track-Only Monster Redefining Hypercar Limits
A Rare Collector’s Masterpiece
With only 20 units produced worldwide, the Centenario Roadster is one of the rarest hypercars of the modern Lamborghini era. Its limited production, historical significance and cutting-edge performance technology ensure its value continues to appreciate significantly.
Collectors prize the Centenario Roadster not only for its rarity but also for its status as one of the final naturally aspirated V12 special editions built before Lamborghini began shifting toward hybrid powertrains. It represents a moment in automotive history when raw mechanical engineering and design ambition reached their highest form.
2017 Lamborghini Centenario Roadster – Specifications & Performance Chart
| Category | Specification |
| Engine | 6.5-Liter Naturally Aspirated V12 |
| Power | 770 hp |
| Torque | ~690 Nm |
| Transmission | 7-Speed ISR |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
| 0–100 km/h | 2.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 350+ km/h |
| Chassis | Full Carbon-Fiber Monocoque |
| Steering | Rear-Wheel Steering |
| Suspension | Magnetorheological Adaptive Suspension |
| Brakes | Carbon-Ceramic Braking System |
| Body Style | Open-Top Roadster |
| Seats | Carbon-Fiber Sport Seats |
| Production | 20 Units Worldwide |
| Infotainment | 10.1-inch Touchscreen, Telemetry System |
| Aerodynamics | Active Aero, Massive Rear Diffuser |
| Weight | Approx. 1,570 kg |
