On May 16, 2025, the iconic Imola Circuit in Italy hosted an electrifying drag race that pitted two Italian engineering marvels against each other: the Lamborghini Temerario and the Ducati Panigale V4. This adrenaline-charged showdown on the circuit’s straightaway brought together the High-Performance Electrified Vehicle (HPEV) from Sant’Agata Bolognese and the seventh-generation superbike from Borgo Panigale, showcasing their extreme performance and cutting-edge technology in a thrilling face-off.
The Lamborghini Temerario: A Hybrid Supercar Redefining Limits
The Lamborghini Temerario emerges as a groundbreaking force in the super sports car segment, blending raw power with innovative hybrid technology. At its heart lies a twin-turbo V8 engine, designed and developed entirely in Sant’Agata Bolognese, paired with three electric motors to deliver a staggering total output of 920 CV (approximately 907 horsepower). This powertrain marks a historic milestone: it’s the first production super sports car engine capable of revving up to an astonishing 10,000 rpm. 
The performance figures are nothing short of breathtaking. The Temerario achieves a top speed exceeding 340 km/h (over 210 mph) and rockets from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 2.7 seconds. During the drag race, the car demonstrated its prowess with a launch control mode, activated by a ‘chequered flag’ button on the steering wheel, allowing the driver to unleash its full potential from a standing start. This supercar isn’t just about speed—it’s a testament to Lamborghini’s relentless pursuit of automotive excellence. (Note: The vehicle is not yet offered for sale and is therefore not subject to Directive 1999/94/EC. The fuel consumption and emissions data are in the type approval stage.)
The Ducati Panigale V4: Superbike Evolution at Its Peak
Opposing the Temerario was the Ducati Panigale V4, a superbike that represents the pinnacle of Ducati’s racing legacy. Now in its seventh generation, the Panigale V4 features a MotoGP-derived V4 Desmosedici Stradale engine with a counter-rotating crankshaft, producing 216 horsepower. This power is complemented by a suite of advanced technologies, including the Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO) and Race eCBS, which enhance rider control and safety. The bike’s integrated aerodynamics and completely revised chassis further elevate its performance, making it accessible yet exhilarating for riders of all skill levels.
With CO2 emissions of 151 g/km and fuel consumption of 6.5 l/100 km, the Panigale V4 combines track-ready power with precision engineering. Its evolutionary leap in design and electronics allows enthusiasts to experience professional riding techniques, pushing the boundaries of what a superbike can achieve.
The Drag Race: A Standing Start Showdown
The Imola Circuit’s straight provided the perfect stage for this clash of Italian titans. The race began with a standing start, testing the acceleration and launch capabilities of both machines. The Lamborghini Temerario’s launch control mode gave it an explosive edge, harnessing the hybrid powertrain’s immense torque to surge forward. Meanwhile, the Ducati Panigale V4 relied on its lightweight agility and MotoGP-inspired engineering to challenge the supercar’s brute force.
While the video of this event captures the heart-pounding action, the outcome remains secondary to the spectacle itself. This drag race was a celebration of performance, a showcase of how far Italian automotive and motorcycle design have come.
A Celebration of Italian Engineering
The face-off between the Lamborghini Temerario and Ducati Panigale V4 at Imola was more than just a race—it was a tribute to Italy’s storied tradition of crafting high-performance machines. Both vehicles, hailing from legendary marques in Sant’Agata Bolognese and Borgo Panigale, embody the passion, innovation, and precision that define Italian engineering. As the roar of the V8 and the scream of the V4 echoed across the circuit, spectators witnessed a thrilling collision of technology and adrenaline, cementing the legacy of these two iconic brands on May 16, 2025.
