Lamborghini Aventador Buyers Guide

The year 2012 marked a significant milestone in Lamborghini’s history when it introduced the Aventador, a new flagship supercar that succeeded the iconic Murcielago, bringing in a new era for Lamborghini’s V12 vehicles.

The Aventador quickly gained popularity as one of the world’s most coveted supercars, prompting Lamborghini to produce updated versions until recently.

Designed as the ultimate Lamborghini, it featured a 6.5-liter, 700hp engine, and all-wheel drive capabilities. The rear wing also raises at three different angles depending on speed and drive mode.

The design of the car was distinct from anything we had witnessed before. It had a low-slung appearance reminiscent of previous flagship V12 Lamborghinis, while also exuding a powerful yet futuristic aura, influenced by some of the styling cues of the limited edition Reventon.

The interior of the Aventador boasts a cockpit inspired by fighter jets. Once inside, your attention is drawn to the red flip-up switch for starting the car. Sitting in the driver’s seat is an exhilarating experience, as the position of the seats creates a sensation of speed even when stationary.

The Lamborghini Aventador has several adjustable driving modes that you can select on the steering wheel, including:

Strada (street) – Daily drivingSport – More dynamic and responsive driveCorsa (race) – Track-like performance

Despite complaints about the Aventador’s single-clutch transmission, especially at low speeds it is very jerky. However, some argue that it provides a more tactile experience during gear changes.

The Aventador boasts advanced technology and ergonomic features, borrowed from Audi, that elevates it to the level of a practical supercar. It is notably more user-friendly than its predecessor, the Murcielago.

The Ferrari F12 is the primary contender to the Aventador, with both vehicles sharing a similarly large V12 engine and price range. However, these two cars belong in a class of their own. The Ferrari is a fast GT car that is more understated, while the Aventador is a visually stunning, awe-inspiring vehicle that gets hearts racing upon sight. 

Those who desire an Aventador likely already know they want a Lamborghini.

Model Changes (Breakdown by Year)

2012 Lamborghini Aventador

The 2012 model is the first full year of production for the Aventador LP 700-4, which replaced the Lamborghini Murcielago.

It came with a 6.5l V12 engine that produced 700hp and was mated to a seven-speed single-clutch gearbox, dubbed ISR for independent shifting rods, which uses twin shafts and four carbon synchronizers allow for simultaneous engagement of one gear and disengagement of another.

Carbon ceramic brakes were also a standard issue on all Aventadors. 

The base price started at $393,695 which was slotted right with the Ferrari F12. 

2013 Lamborghini Aventador

In 2013, Lamborghini released the Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster, an open-roof variant of Lamborghini’s 2013 release, that required manual installation of its top and could be conveniently stowed away in the front trunk.

With the two gloss-black roof panels removed, torsional stiffness is 37% lower than the coupe.

Starting price for the Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster is $448,295 ($55,000 more than the coupe)

Mechanically, the 2013 Lamborghini Aventador was basically the same as 2012 one. 

There were also some new options and changes that included: 

More color and trim selection.Engine cylinder deactivation involves shutting down an entire bank of cylinders under low engine load and speeds up to 84 mph, effectively turning the 6.5-liter V-12 into a 3.25-liter inline-six.Suspension refinementsTweaks to the single-clutch transmission

2014 Lamborghini Aventador

The Lamborghini Aventador LP 720-4 50th Anniversario was introduced in 2014. With a planned production of precisely 100 units of coupe and 100 units of roadsters sets itself apart from the standard car with its unique aero package.

The front end features larger and wider air intakes, big flaps, and a huge splitter, while the rear end is graced by a massive diffuser.

Lamborghini launched the LP720-4 coupe with a unique shade of yellow that was never seen before called Giallo Maggio, and the roadster with a satin grey color called Grigio Titans.

However, Lamborghini customers who desire their fierce bull to come in shades other than yellow can choose to have their 50 Anniversario model painted in any other color.

Inside, you can find that the interior comes with standard carbon fiber bits and offers Q-Citura stitching, which gives the seats a diamond pattern. 

The Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversario is fitted with a more potent engine, a 6.5l naturally aspirated V-12 that generates 710 horsepower, compared to the standard Aventador’s 691 horsepower. 

Other notable changes in the 2014 Aventador: 

New option: New trim options for the interior were introduced. New option: Sport exhaust software upgrade introduced. New option: Carbon fiber roof panels on the roadster are available.

2015 Lamborghini Aventador

For 2015 the regular line of the Aventador LP700 remains unchanged. However, in honor of the partnership between Lamborghini and Pirelli, which dates back to 1963 Lamborghini released the Aventador LP700-4 Pirelli Edition.

This exclusive edition is available in both a closed coupe and roadster version and features a select range of color options, each with a black roof.

On the Pirelli Edition, the windshield pillars, roof, shoulder intakes, and engine cover are all black, with the option of either a matte or glossy finish. Pirelli’s script is also featured just behind the windshield.

The same red line is also present on the black exterior rearview mirrors and on the lower part of both the front and rear air vents.

Only 100 units were available, with 15 being roadsters.

Other notable changes in the 2015 Aventador: 

A button to override the rear wing was added.Race exhaust hardware & software upgrades were added.New option: More interior trim options and colors were introduced.New option: Mesh covering under the rear spoiler is an option.

2016 Lamborghini Aventador

In 2016, the Lamborghini Aventador LP750 SV, with “SV” meaning “Superveloce,” both in coupe and roadster format was launched after much anticipation.

It had a significant legacy to uphold, as the Lamborghini Murcielago LP670 SV had earned a reputation as one of the rawest Lamborghinis ever created.

The LP 750 SV utilized the same V12 engine as the standard LP 700, but with an added 740hp, 49hp up from the base car’s 691hp. Weighing in at 3868 pounds, the SV is 217 pounds lighter than the last regular Aventador.

Its carbon fiber components include the engine cover, wing, air intake, door panels, rear diffuser, and seat shells.

All SVs came standard with carbon ceramic brakes.

The interior design of the base Aventador remains mostly unchanged, except for the absence of some leather. The doors, tunnel, and floor provide a bare-carbon feel. 

A brand-new instrument cluster in vibrant yellow prominently displays the gears and engine speed. Although some SV owners opted for comfort seats, the most noticeable change is the optional racing shell seats, which look great. However, there have been complaints that these seats can become uncomfortable after extended use.

The optional Diantus wheels are inspired by racing, are significantly lighter than the standard Dione wheels, and come with either a black or red central locking nut.

These wheels measure 20 inches at the front and 21 inches at the rear, always paired with a Magneto-rheological suspension system, which can be picked with black or red springs.

For more straightforward navigation of steep driveways, a lifting system is available as an add-on option that is very beneficial.

The announcement stated that the production of the SV was limited to approximately 600 units of coupe and 500 units for roadsters, making it a rare and sought-after Aventador. 

The base price for the SV starts at $490,000.

Other notable changes on the 2016 Aventador: 

New option: Centre-lock wheels from the SV can be ordered as an option.

2017 Lamborghini Aventador

2017 came the Lamborghini Aventador S. It is the new designation for the revised entry-level Aventador, which is touted as a more dynamic and enjoyable vehicle.

Upon first sight, the updated Aventador S’s redesigned front and rear portions are immediately noticeable, but the sides have also undergone alterations. Although the vehicle’s profile retains its distinctive Aventador appearance, the rear wheel arches are similar to the iconic Countach.

The Lamborghini Aventador S marks the debut of four-wheel steering on production models from Sant’Agata. The front wheels employ Lamborghini Dynamic Steering (LDS), while the rear uses Lamborghini Rear Steering (LRS). This system shortens the wheelbase at low speeds for better maneuverability and lengthens it at higher speeds to enhance stability.

In addition to Strada, Sport, and Corsa modes, the Aventador S now features EGO mode. This innovative setting enables the driver to blend their preferred traction, steering, and suspension settings from Strada, Sport, and Corsa, creating a customized driving experience.

Strada (street)
– Daily drivingSport – More dynamic and responsive driveCorsa (race) – Track-like performanceEGO – Custom settings

The V12 engine in the Aventador S now boasts an output of 740hp, an increase of 40hp compared to the original LP700-4 unit. The maximum rpm has also been raised to 8,500, delivering even more power and performance.

The base price for the Aventador S starts at $424,000.

2018 Lamborghini Aventador

Not long after the Aventador S coupe was released, the roadster variant debuted. The base price for the spyder started at around $467,000 ($43,000 more than the coupe).

The Aventador S Roadster features the same four-wheel steering, active suspension, and EGO driving mode as its Coupe counterpart, along with an updated push-rod suspension that enhances vertical control.

Additionally, the Lamborghini Dynamic Steering (LDS) system provides improved feedback.

While the coupe already provides an intense experience, the open-air option offers a heightened sensory experience that justifies the extra cost.

2019 Lamborghini Aventador

In 2019, Lamborghini introduced the Aventador SVJ which is the most extreme and hardcore iteration of the Aventador thus far. SVJ stands for ‘Super Veloce Jota’, whereas the SV in the car’s name stands for Superveloce, which means ‘superfast’ in Italian.

Additionally, the ‘Jota’ suffix is added to indicate that the car has superior track and performance capabilities.

At the time, the SVJ not only broke the world record for production cars at the renowned Nürburgring-Nordschleife track in Germany with a time of 6 minutes and 44.97 seconds but was also designed to be a car for driving enthusiasts, rather than just a vehicle for cruising the streets on weekends.

The engine produces 770hp (30hp more than the SV) and 531 lb/ft of torque.

Lamborghini has made various modifications to the SVJ, including using carbon fiber extensively in both the body and interior, installing lightweight center-locking wheels, and using lighter suspension and exhaust components. They have even removed the struts and power latch from the engine bonnet to reduce weight.

However, they have managed to maintain the car’s center of mass while also adding rear steer and the ALA (Aerodinamica Lamborghini Attiva system) active aero system.

The Aventador’s ISR gearbox, which has 7 speed and a single clutch, remains the same but with updated tuning. The only aspect of the car that seems outdated is the Audi-MMI system, which is comically ancient, dating back to

 2010. Upshifts take a while, and downshifts are quite dramatic.

The base price for the SVJ starts at about $515,000 ($25,000 more than the SV).

2020 Lamborghini Aventador 

Following the introduction of the Aventador SVJ coupe, Lamborghini has released its open top  counterpart, the SVJ Roadster, as anticipated, for the year 2020.

Apart from the weight gain of 110 lbs caused by the carbon fiber top, everything else remains unchanged. The vehicle still boasts the same monstrous 770hp V12 engine.

The SVJ Roadster features a revamped engine cover and wider side intakes compared to the coupe. However, it retains the SVJ’s significant feature – active aerodynamics.

Starting at $573,000, the base price of the SVJ Roadster is $58,000 higher than that of the SVJ coupe. Production of this convertible will be limited to only 800 units by Lamborghini.

2021 Lamborghini Aventador

In 2021 Lamborghini launched the Aventador Ultimae LP 780-4 (“Ultimae” is a Latin term that means “final” or “last”) marks the upcoming replacement for the Aventador will feature a V12 hybrid powertrain, marking not only the end of the Aventador model but also the final instance of Lamborghini’s V12 engine. 

The engine is currently in its most powerful form, producing 780bhp. This represents the ultimate in power and marks the end of its development. 

The Ultimae model incorporates all the best features of the Aventador and has been further refined for an even sharper performance. It can be considered an SVJ touring model, exhibiting slight variations in the driving experience.

Without the SVJ’s ALA active aerodynamics system, the Ultimae seems to have lost some of the raw emotional appeals of the car. As a result, it feels a bit more refined and less forceful when pushed to its limits.

The standard comfort seat instead of the racing sport seat further contributes to the idea of a comfortable ride.

Base price starts at $498,000 and only 350 coupes and 250 roadsters of the Ultimae model were made for production, making it a particularly rare variation.

Lamborghini Aventador Common Problems

Lamborghini may have been very successful, but it was not as reliable as its smaller sibling, the Huracan. There are a few common issues that will be illustrated below that you will have to look out for. 

However, it is essential to keep in mind that all cars, even supercars, can have issues and it is crucial to perform a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) from an authorized dealer or experienced independent mechanic to reveal all issues.

Transmission issue: This issue was particularly prevalent in the 2012 model year Aventadors, with many drivers reporting leaks and transmission failures. While the issue was not entirely widespread, it was significant enough for Lamborghini to take notice and address it in subsequent model years. The company implemented design changes and improved the transmission seal to prevent leaks and ensure the longevity of the transmission unit.

Bouncy suspension: The Aventador models of 2012 appear to have a suspension system that is noticeably stiffer than other models. This stiffness can cause the vehicle to skip and jump intermittently, resulting in an unsettling driving experience for some drivers. However, Lamborghini recognized the issue and made significant improvements to the suspension system in later models, resulting in a more refined driving experience with better handling and performance.

Electrical issues: Aventador owners have reported difficulties with updating the car’s software. Specifically, some owners have reported that the car’s software system does not recognize the USB drive or SD card used to update the software. This issue can prevent the car’s software from being updated properly, potentially resulting in performance issues. This issue has been reported by Aventador owners across various model years, although it is unclear how widespread the issue is. Lamborghini has acknowledged the issue and has provided guidance to dealerships on how to address the problem. In some cases, dealerships have been able to resolve the issue by resetting the car’s software system or by using a different USB drive or SD card.

Headlight issue: One of the most common headlight related issues reported by Aventador owners is condensation build-up inside the headlight housing. This issue is typically caused by a faulty seal around the headlight housing, allowing moisture to enter and accumulate inside the housing. This can lead to foggy or hazy headlights, reducing the car’s visibility at night and potentially causing safety issues. Another issue related to the Aventador’s headlights is related to the LED lighting system. Some owners have reported that the LED lights in the headlights may flicker or fail altogether, causing visibility issues when driving at night. Lamborghini has acknowledged both of these issues and has provided guidance to dealerships on how to address them. In some cases, dealerships have been able to resolve the issue by replacing the faulty headlight housing or the LED lighting system.

Clutch failure: One of the most common issues reported by Aventador owners is a clutch failure. Over time, the clutch in the Aventador can wear out, resulting in clutch slippage or failure. This can cause the car to lose power or even stall, making it difficult or impossible to drive. Another issue related to the Aventador’s clutch system is related to the clutch wear sensor. Some owners have reported that the clutch wear sensor can fail, causing the car’s computer system to display warning messages and limiting the car’s performance. In some cases, the car may even go into a “limp mode” where it can only be driven at low speeds.

Fuel problem: Some owners have reported issues with the fuel pump failing or becoming clogged. This can result in the car not starting, sputtering or stalling, or experiencing a loss of power during acceleration. This can happen because the fuel tank can develop leaks, resulting in fuel spills or even fires. This can be a serious safety issue that requires immediate attention.

Recalls

2012 Aventador vehicles manufactured July 15, 2011, through April 20, 2012

Exterior lighting (Recall no. 12V561000)

Lamborghini is recalling certain model year 2012 Aventador vehicles manufactured July 15, 2011, through April 20, 2012, for failing to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.” The affected vehicles may have headlights that can be aimed horizontally but not vertically. 

2012-2017 Aventador vehicles

Fuel system (Recall no. 17V073000)

Lamborghini is recalling certain 2012-2017 Aventador vehicles. In certain driving conditions, while the vehicle has a full gas tank, gasoline may contact the exhaust system.

2012-2018 Lamborghini Aventador Coupe and Roadster vehicles

Engine and engine cooling (Recall no. 18V391000)

Lamborghini is recalling certain 2012-2018 Lamborghini Aventador Coupe and Roadster vehicles. The engine may stall unexpectedly during certain driving conditions such as when the accelerator pedal is released below 2000 rpms while the transmission is automatically downshifting to a lower gear.

2015-2016 Lamborghini Aventador SV Coupe and Aventador SV Roadster vehicles

Wheels (Recall no. 18V461000)

Lamborghini is recalling certain 2015-2016 Lamborghini Aventador SV Coupe and Aventador SV Roadster vehicles. The bolts centering and supporting the brake discs to the wheel’s hub may loosen over time. Continued driving with loose centering bolts may result in the wheel detaching.

2017-2019 Aventador S Coupe and Aventador S Roadster vehicles

Engine management software (Recall no. 19V696000)

Lamborghini is recalling certain 2017-2019 Aventador S Coupe and Aventador S Roadster vehicles. The engine management software may allow the engine to stall when coasting to a stop.

2020 Aventador SVJ Coupe and Aventador SVJ Roadster vehicles

Hinge and attachments (Recall no. 20V151000)

Lamborghini is recalling certain 2020 Aventador SVJ Coupe and Aventador SVJ Roadster vehicles. The interior door handle mechanism may fail, resulting in the vehicle’s door being unable to be opened by using the inside door handle.

2020 Aventador SVJ Coupe and Aventador SVJ Roadster vehicles

Front control arm (Recall no. 21V107000)

Lamborghini is recalling certain 2020 Aventador SVJ Coupe and Aventador SVJ Roadster vehicles. Due to potentially damaged aluminum frame threads, the front frame suspension arm anchor bolt may have been insufficiently tightened.

2018-2021 Aventador SVJ Coupe vehicles

Hinge and attachments (Recall no. 21V107000)

Lamborghini is recalling certain 2018-2021 Aventador SVJ Coupe vehicles. The hood hinge screws may loosen, possibly resulting in an unlatched hood. This may cause the hood to detach from the vehicle in certain, high-speed driving conditions.

2021 Aventador SVJ Roadster vehicles

Pipes, hoses, and fittings (Recall no. 21V927000)

Lamborghini is recalling 2021 Aventador SVJ Roadster vehicles. The heat exchanger oil line screws may have been improperly tightened during assembly, which could cause the oil lines to detach.

Maintenance and Ownership Costs

Although the cost of owning an Aventador can be high, it is comparatively more dependable than its predecessor, the Murcielago.

However, it is important to remember that regular maintenance and repairs will still be necessary, and the costs can vary depending on whether you take your car to a dealer or an independent mechanic.

Here are the suggested service schedule and intervals per Lamborghini: 

1 YEAR OR 9,000 MILES

Replace engine oil and filter at least once a yearComprehensive Inspection of Factory SpecificationsComplete Factory Diagnostics

2 YEARS OF 18,000 MILES

Coolant FlushEngine Air FilterBrake FluidSpark PlugsPollen and Dust FiltersV-Belt and Belt Tensioner (if needed)

3 YEARS OR 27,000 MILES

Radiator and CondenserFuel PipesCharcoal FiltersHeadlight OrientationTires and RimsSeatbeltsEngine AssemblyBattery Connections

Here is a rough estimate of typical service costs associated with the Lamborghini Aventador:

Oil Change – As low as $300 for independent mechanics and $500 for dealers.Minor Service – Typically includes oil change, cabin filters, and engine filters. The cost from a dealer is around $1,100Major Service – Typically includes all the above plus spark plugs, brake flush, and trans flush, expect about $4,000 from a dealer.Tires – A set of high-performance tires like Michelin PS4 will cost about $3,000.Brakes – Rotors are carbon ceramic which should last forever. Aftermarket brake pads that are OE equivalent will cost about $900 for a full set.Clutch – Single clutch transmission is known to have issues. So expect to pay around $10,000 for the clutch and labor.

Options List

The Lamborghini Aventador has a list of options and packages that customers can choose from. 

Some options were packages featuring exterior and interior upgrades, including glass bonnet, wheels, and carbon exterior/interior. 

A popular option was to opt for the upgraded paint with a pearl, 4-layer, or matte finish, which often adds a premium to the car’s price.

Another common option that was equipped was the park assist and front lift system, this helped raise the front end of the car, so it can easier get through any driveway or speedbump. Also 

In the later models, some buyers went for the optional sport bucket seats which were offered in the SV and SVJ primarily, and they have more support when turning the corners, but many also argued that they were not comfortable to live with for long distances. 

A handful of Aventador customers also went through the Ad Personam program which was a factory-in-house customization program, that allowed customers to personalize their Aventador with unique exterior and interior colors, materials, and features that were not available on regular production models. 

Because of the strict approval requirements, cars that went through the Ad Personam program are considered highly desirable. 

These cars usually command a higher premium in the market due to their exclusivity and uniqueness. 

Here are some examples of option changes 

2013 Lamborghini Aventador LP 400-4 Roadster Options List

2017 Lamborghini Aventador S Options List

2019 Lamborghini Aventador SVJ Options List

Some of the more desirable options to look for include:

Front lift systemCarbon fiber exterior and interior pieces Optional wheelsSport bucket seatsPearl, 4-layer, or matte finish paintAd Personam exterior or interior (rare)

Lamborghini Aventador Value and Prices (Aventador, SV and SVJ)

 The Best Lamborghini Aventador To Buy

When it comes to buying an Aventador, there are a few key factors to consider that can affect the car’s long-term value.

Some of the criteria break down into 4 categories. 

For Aventadors that will most likely appreciate in value will be the performance variants such as the SV and SVJ. Although they are more expensive, they will also depreciate much less, not to mention they are limited edition models. 

If you’re considering a non-limited edition, we suggest checking out the Aventador S. It’s the updated version of the 2012 Aventador, addressing the issues that were present in the first generation.

When selecting a Aventador, the exterior color can also play a role in making the right choice. Opting for the optional pearl, 4-layer, or matte finish paint will add to the car’s appeal.

If you’re looking for market stability, consider getting a 2017-2021 Aventador S in coupe or roadster. These models have been on the market for a few years now, which means they have depreciated and there may be some good deals available.

To ensure fewer issues, it’s advisable to avoid the 2012 Aventador model. These cars have a less smooth ride than the 2013 and later models, and are more prone to gearbox and engine harness issues, as well as oil leaks.

Additionally, they don’t receive software updates for the engine and gearbox as frequently as newer models. It’s recommended to consider 2014 or newer models instead.

Despite this, it’s worth noting that all Aventadors, including the pre-facelift models from 2012-2016, are still a solid investment due to their status as a flagship Lamborghini.

With their iconic upward-opening doors and naturally aspirated V12 engine – a rarity that is becoming increasingly scarce – they hold a reputation that is hard to come by.

With the growing popularity of hybrid technology in the automotive industry, there is now a high demand for naturally aspirated V12 engines among collectors and enthusiasts in today’s market.

Apart from the limited edition models, when purchasing a Aventador, it’s very important to take into account the car’s condition and mileage. Many Aventadors have been heavily driven and modified, but the ones that are expected to hold their value and command a high price in the future are those that are well-maintained and have a low mileage.

Therefore, it’s important to do your research, compare prices, and look for well-maintained cars if you are considering purchasing an Aventador with the goal of not losing any money.

Conclusion

In conclusion, for around ($350,000 and up) the Lamborghini Aventador is a very good choice for experiencing a true iconic supercar that will be sure to turn heads wherever you go. 

Although the Ferrari F12 is a competing model, the Lamborghini is widely considered to be in a league and category of its own.

In summary, if you’re in the market for a show stopping supercar, the Aventador is a top choice that you won’t regret.