Cars

The Lamborghini Countach was first unveiled at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show with the LP500 concept; designed by Bizzarrini and powered by a mid-mounted V12 producing 375 bhp. When the iconic model would eventually reach production, it was the LP400 ‘Periscopio’ that was closest to Marcello Gandini’s radical original design; synonymous for its a periscope-style rear-view mirror located in the roof’s central dip to aid rear vision. The Countach would become the iconic poster and supercar of the 70s and 80s, however this original iteration of the ‘Gandini wedge’ has always been the most exclusive and desirable, with just 150 examples produced in total. This Countach LP 400 Periscopio is just the 3rd car that was imported to the UK, being dispatched from the factory on May 14th 1975 and delivered to UK Lamborghini agent, Maltin Car Concessionaires in Henley-on-Thames. First registered LGF 849N on May 22nd, the Countach was purchased by Dan Horrocks, a property developer from Bolton. We have been fortunate to know the car since 1988 when its 2nd owner (of just 4 in total) was a good friend of Simon, using a mutual friend for maintenance in the late 80s and early 90s. This keeper was an avid enthusiast, who would even use the car for track days and European road trips, before eventually selling the car to a friend and fellow UK-based collector. Following long-term storage, we would eventually cross paths with #1120094 again in 2014 when we were tasked to find a LP400 Periscopio for a client; a car that we could subsequently have restored. At the time the vehicle was painted in silver and had been initially prepared for restoration works, including the removal of the original engine and gearbox and cosmetic finished in the engine bay and boot areas in the correct satin black finish. Once we agreed a deal with our client, we commissioned a full restoration on the vehicle with works carried out between ourselves and noted marque specialist Mike Pullen of Carrera Sport. Please speak to one of the sales team for an exhaustive list of the works that were carried out, but they included a comprehensive suspension rebuild, overhaul of the braking system, full engine rebuild, new air conditioning system fitted and gearbox and differential overhauls. These mechanical works were complemented by extensive cosmetic preparations including a repaint in Rosso Miura with Nera Pella trim and new glass and rubbers throughout. Following the conclusion of these restoration works, #1120094 presents as one of the very finest Periscopios in the world today, not just of the very few examples that were supplied new to the UK. With its original engine still in place and other key features such as its leather wallet with handbook and extremely rare original bulb kit, this Countach is an opportunity not to be missed in an ever-maturing market for exceptional Lamborghinis.

The Lamborghini Countach is one of the most iconic and revolutionary sports cars in automotive history. First introduced in the early 1970s, the Countach redefined the supercar segment with its radical design, groundbreaking engineering, and exhilarating performance. This essay explores the various aspects of the Lamborghini Countach, including its design, engineering, performance, and enduring legacy. The design of the Lamborghini Countach is nothing short of legendary. When it was unveiled at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show, the Countach stunned the world with its futuristic and aggressive appearance. The brainchild of Marcello Gandini at Bertone, the Countach's design featured sharp, angular lines, a low-slung profile, and a wedge-shaped body that set it apart from anything else on the road. One of the most distinctive features of the Countach is its scissor doors, which open vertically rather than horizontally. These doors not only added to the car's dramatic aesthetic but also became a hallmark of Lamborghini design. The wide, flat front end, prominent air intakes, and sleek, angular rear end all contributed to the Countach's unmistakable look. Its design was as much about function as it was about form, with aerodynamics playing a crucial role in its performance capabilities. Beneath its striking exterior, the Lamborghini Countach was a marvel of engineering. The car was built around a tubular steel space frame, which provided a strong and lightweight structure. The Countach was powered by a mid-mounted V12 engine, initially a 3.9-liter unit, which later grew to 4.8 liters and 5.2 liters in subsequent models. This placement of the engine not only improved weight distribution but also enhanced the car's handling and stability. The Countach featured a longitudinally mounted engine, a departure from the transverse layout used in its predecessor, the Lamborghini Miura. This layout allowed for better packaging and more effective cooling of the engine. The car's suspension system, consisting of double wishbones at both the front and rear, provided excellent handling characteristics, while its wide tires offered superb grip. The Lamborghini Countach was not just about looks; it was a true performance machine. The early LP400 model produced around 375 horsepower, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over 5 seconds and reach a top speed of 179 mph. Later models, such as the LP500 S and the 5000 QV, saw power outputs increase to 420 horsepower and beyond, further enhancing their performance credentials. The Countach's performance was complemented by its advanced (for the time) braking system, featuring ventilated disc brakes that provided excellent stopping power. The car's low center of gravity, wide track, and balanced weight distribution made it exceptionally agile, capable of tackling tight corners and high-speed turns with ease. The Lamborghini Countach was ahead of its time in many ways, incorporating several technological innovations that set it apart from its contemporaries. One of the most notable features was its adjustable rear wing, which provided additional downforce at high speeds, improving stability and handling. While not all Countach models came with this wing as standard, it became a popular option among buyers. The car also featured a unique periscope-style rearview mirror in the early LP400 model, which was later replaced by a more conventional setup. The cockpit of the Countach was designed with the driver in mind, offering a minimalist yet functional layout that emphasized performance driving. Despite its Spartan interior, the Countach offered a range of luxurious options, including leather upholstery and air conditioning. The Lamborghini Countach has left an indelible mark on automotive culture and remains a symbol of exotic car design and performance. Its appearance in numerous movies, music videos, and video games has cemented its status as a cultural icon. The Countach was the poster car for a generation of car enthusiasts, adorning the walls of countless bedrooms around the world. The Countach's influence extends beyond its own production run, which lasted until 1990. It set the template for future Lamborghini models, with its design language and engineering principles echoed in subsequent cars like the Diablo, Murciélago, and Aventador. The Countach's legacy also lives on in the world of car design, inspiring countless designers and manufacturers to push the boundaries of what is possible.