When it comes to car names, word association plays a big part in influencing our opinion of a car model. Names inspired by legendary characters never fail to conjure up equally heroic, almost mythical associations for the vehicle.
Like Murcielago (above), named after a bull that survived 24 stabs in 1879 and fought with such passion that the matador spared its life. Or Miura, a name synonymous with a breeder of famous fighting bulls.
Lamborghini’s Murcielago and Miura both live up to their namesakes. But beware of appellations that set such high aspirations that the cars so named will have difficulty living up to them. Like Kalos, which means “beautiful” in Greek. Or Avenger, which is merely a modest family sedan from Chrysler.
Using Italian words can give any car, Italian or otherwise, an instant makeover. A good example would be Maserati’s Quattroporte, whose lovely moniker (below) is simply the Italian word for “four-door”.
