Lamborghini's 2009 Driving Academy a Bargain at $5,000

SANT'AGATA BOLOGNESE, Italy — Lamborghini is once again allowing enthusiasts the chance to get in the driver seat of one of its vehicles with its annual Driving Academy program, to be held at the Adria and Vallelunga racetracks in Italy once per month (except August) from April through November.

The on-track driving school features two programs: a Track Academy course and a more intense Advanced Academy for the more experienced participant. The entry-level Track Academy course includes theory sessions and drills to practice handling and safety at the wheel of a Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4. The advanced course concentrates on improving vehicle control as well as enhancing the driver's track performance using an in-vehicle telemetry system. Advanced Academy students will take the reins of a Gallardo LP560-4 and a more powerful Murciélago LP640.

Participants will learn the ropes of the all-wheel-drive Lamborghinis by practicing driving with ESP turned on and off, studying how to deal with understeer and oversteer — and, of course, learning how to drift.

It will cost the equivalent of about $5,000 to get on the track, and that price includes accommodations and an in-car video of your driving experience.

Inside Line says: The $5,000 cost of entry is not a terrible price to pay if your bucket list involves tackling the tarmac in a Lamborghini. — Mike Lysaght, Correspondent