Lamborghini Countach Classic Cars for Sale

Introduction and History of the Lamborghini Countach

The Lamborghini Countach was conceived as the successor to the Miura, with development beginning in 1970 under the project name LP112. Chief engineer Paolo Stanzani and designer Marcello Gandini of Bertone aimed to create a car that pushed the boundaries of performance and design. The prototype, LP500, debuted at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show, showcasing a radical wedge-shaped body and scissor doors. Production began in 1974 with the LP400, and the Countach remained in production until 1990. Over its 16-year lifespan, the Countach underwent continuous technical and stylistic evolution, influencing the direction of Lamborghini and the broader supercar market.

Model History

The Countach lineage began with the LP400 (1974–1978), featuring a 3.9-litre V12 engine. The LP400 S (1978–1982) introduced wider tyres and flared arches, while the LP500 S (1982–1985) increased displacement to 4.8 litres. The LP5000 Quattrovalvole (1985–1988) brought a 5.2-litre V12 with four valves per cylinder and, in some versions, Bosch fuel injection. The final iteration, the 25th Anniversary Edition (1988–1990), featured aerodynamic and comfort improvements. Special versions such as the Walter Wolf Countach and Turbo S further expanded the model's legacy. The Countach was succeeded by the Lamborghini Diablo in 1990.

Highlights of the Lamborghini Countach

The Countach is instantly recognisable for its sharply angled wedge design, scissor doors, and aggressive stance. It introduced technical innovations such as a longitudinally mounted V12 engine and a tubular spaceframe chassis. The car's performance, with outputs up to 455 PS and top speeds approaching 300 km/h, set new benchmarks for road-going sports cars. The Countach's influence extended beyond performance, shaping the visual language of Lamborghini and the supercar genre. Its presence in popular culture, especially as a 'poster car' of the 1980s, cemented its status as a design and engineering milestone.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Notable special editions include the Walter Wolf Countach, featuring a 5.0-litre engine and unique aerodynamic modifications; the Turbo S, with twin-turbocharging and up to 759 PS; the Countach QVX Group C race car; and the one-off Evoluzione prototype, which tested advanced composite materials and technologies. The 25th Anniversary Edition, styled by Horacio Pagani, introduced aerodynamic and cooling improvements and is considered the most refined production Countach.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

No specific weak spots or common issues are documented in the provided data. However, as with many high-performance classics, buyers should pay attention to the condition of the V12 engine, transmission, and chassis, as well as the originality of bodywork and interior components. Maintenance and restoration require specialist knowledge and access to original parts.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Countach's V12 engines delivered outputs from 375 to 455 PS, with torque peaking at 500 Nm in the Quattrovalvole models. Acceleration and top speed figures were at the forefront of their era, with the 25th Anniversary Edition reaching 0–100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. The 5-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel-drive layout provided direct, engaging handling, though the heavy controls and wide chassis demanded skill from the driver. Suspension and braking systems were designed for high-speed stability and cornering performance. Notable models include the LP400 for its purity and low drag, the LP5000 QV for peak power, and the 25th Anniversary for its refinement.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Marcello Gandini's design for the Countach introduced the sharply angled wedge shape, scissor doors, and aggressive proportions that became Lamborghini hallmarks. The interior featured deeply recessed bucket seats, a prominent transmission tunnel, and a driver-focused dashboard. Materials included leather upholstery and aluminium trim, with later models offering improved comfort and air conditioning. Exterior colours ranged from classic black to vibrant hues, often paired with large five-spoke wheels and distinctive rear wings. Accessories such as original steering wheels, additional instrumentation, and climate control systems were available. The Countach's design innovations influenced not only Lamborghini but the entire supercar segment.

Other Relevant Features

The Countach was produced in both European and American versions, with US models featuring larger bumpers and Bosch fuel injection to meet regulations. The car was assembled in Sant'Agata Bolognese, with a small number of kits assembled in South Africa. The Countach served as the Formula One safety car at Monaco (1980–1983) and inspired a 2021 limited-production hybrid model, the Countach LPI 800-4.

Summary

The Lamborghini Countach stands as a milestone in automotive history, combining radical design, advanced engineering, and high performance. Its technical innovations, distinctive appearance, and cultural impact have made it a reference point for supercars. With strong supply and demand in the classic car market, the Countach remains a sought-after example of Italian automotive excellence.