The Lamborghini Gallardo is one of the most iconic supercars of the 21st century, a vehicle that defined an era for the Italian marque. Known for its striking design, raw power, and high-revving V-10 engine, the Gallardo left a lasting impression on the automotive world. However, while the original model remains beloved, automotive technology and design philosophies have evolved. This is where Tedson Motors, a Croatian company specializing in high-end restomods, has stepped in with the Tedson Etna—a stunning reinterpretation of the first-generation Gallardo.

The Etna isn’t just a modified Gallardo; it’s a comprehensive reinvention. With a tuned 5.0-liter V-10, a manual gearbox, extensive weight reduction, and bold styling, Tedson Motors has transformed the Gallardo into a modernized performance machine while retaining its original soul. Named after Italy’s famous Mount Etna, this restomod is a flow of raw power, lightweight design, and bespoke craftsmanship, making it one of the most exciting restomods in recent years.

Tedson Motors: Masters of Restomod Craftsmanship

Tedson Motors, primarily known for its work on Porsche restomods, has built a reputation for blending classic designs with modern engineering. The company’s philosophy revolves around revitalizing legendary cars by improving their performance, handling, and aesthetics while maintaining their historical essence.

While Porsche models have been the company’s primary focus, Tedson Motors has now turned its attention to Lamborghini with the Etna project. Given that the Gallardo is one of the most successful Lamborghinis ever produced—with over 14,000 units sold between 2003 and 2013—it was an ideal candidate for a high-performance restomod.

Performance Upgrades: A V-10 Like No Other

At the heart of the Tedson Etna is the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V-10 engine, which has been extensively tuned to deliver 592 horsepower. While the first-generation Gallardo had multiple power outputs ranging from 493 to 562 horsepower, the Etna takes things further by optimizing engine mapping, intake, and exhaust systems.

One of the most exciting aspects of this restomod is its 10,000 rpm redline. In the standard Gallardo, the rev limiter sits around 8,500 rpm, but Tedson Motors has reworked the engine internals to safely push the limits. The result is a more aggressive, high-revving driving experience that feels closer to a race car than a street-legal supercar.

The Manual Gearbox: A Nod to the Purists

One of the standout features of the Tedson Etna is its manual gearbox. While early Gallardo models were available with a six-speed gated manual transmission, the majority of them were equipped with Lamborghini’s e-gear automated manual transmission.

Tedson Motors’ decision to retain and refine the manual transmission is a tribute to driving purists, ensuring that the Etna delivers a more engaging experience. The gated shifter, a hallmark of classic Lamborghinis, not only enhances the driving connection but also adds an element of mechanical beauty to the cabin.

Weight Reduction: Shedding the Pounds for Performance

Another major improvement over the stock Gallardo is weight reduction. The Etna is over 200 kg (440 lbs) lighter than the original car, bringing it closer to the sub-1,300 kg range (2,866 lbs)—a figure that makes a significant difference in agility, acceleration, and handling.

Tedson Motors achieved this through extensive use of lightweight materials, including carbon fiber body panels, lightweight wheels, and a revised interior with racing-inspired elements. This weight-saving approach translates to a more responsive driving experience, sharper cornering, and improved power-to-weight ratio.

Design: A Modern Take on a Classic Look

The Tedson Etna retains the first-generation Gallardo’s iconic wedge shape, but with modern refinements that give it an even more aggressive and futuristic look.

Aerodynamic Enhancements

• A revised front bumper and splitter improve downforce and airflow.

• Wider fenders accommodate lightweight wheels wrapped in high-performance tires.

• A redesigned rear diffuser and a fixed rear wing enhance aerodynamic stability at high speeds.

The LED lighting upgrades bring a modern touch to the classic Gallardo design, making the Etna look both timeless and contemporary.

Interior: A Driver-Centric Cockpit

Inside, the Etna features a minimalist yet luxurious cabin, with a focus on performance driving.

• Alcantara and carbon fiber materials replace the stock Gallardo’s heavier trim elements.

• The gated shifter remains the centerpiece of the cabin, reinforcing the car’s mechanical purity.

• Racing seats and a redesigned instrument cluster enhance the driving experience, prioritizing ergonomics and visibility.

Why the Tedson Etna Stands Out

The restomod scene has been booming in recent years, with companies revamping classic Porsches, Ferraris, and even JDM icons. However, Lamborghini restomods are relatively rare, making the Etna a unique entry in the high-performance restomod market.

Manual Transmission Revival – In an era where most supercars have gone automatic, the return of a gated manual gearbox makes the Etna exceptionally desirable.

High-Revving 10,000 RPM Engine – The ability to rev a naturally aspirated V-10 beyond 10,000 rpm is an achievement that very few modern cars can boast.

Lightweight Engineering – Shedding over 200 kg makes this Gallardo-based restomod sharper and more agile than ever before.

Timeless Lamborghini Aesthetics – While modern Lamborghinis have evolved into more angular designs, the Etna pays homage to the pure, classic shape of the original Gallardo while integrating modern aerodynamic enhancements.

A Worthy Tribute to Italian and Croatian Craftsmanship

The Tedson Etna isn’t just a car—it’s a statement of passion, engineering, and automotive artistry. While Lamborghini itself has moved toward hybridization and advanced technologies, Tedson Motors has taken a different approach, focusing on mechanical purity and driver engagement.

By blending the soul of the first-generation Gallardo with modern engineering advancements, the Etna stands as a tribute to both Italian and Croatian craftsmanship. It proves that restomods aren’t just about nostalgia—they’re about reimagining legends for a new era.

Final Thoughts: A Dream Machine for Enthusiasts

For those who love raw, unfiltered driving experiences, the Tedson Etna is a dream machine. It’s an exhilarating mix of old-school Lamborghini charisma and modern performance enhancements. With a manual transmission, a screaming V-10, and a lightweight chassis, this Croatian restomod is one of the most exciting reinterpretations of a classic supercar in recent memory.

Tedson Motors has created something truly special with the Etna, proving that restomods can be more than just nostalgia-driven projects—they can be genuine performance marvels. Whether you’re a Lamborghini purist or a restomod enthusiast, the Tedson Etna is a car that deserves attention, admiration, and a spot in automotive history.

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