Another dream car in the bank. Understandably, my jaw hit the floor when I received word that I would be photographing this pristine 1983 Lamborghini Countach LP500 S last month. A three owner car with just under 10,500km (right around 6,500 miles) since new and on its ORIGINAL TIRES, this 32 year old car was in better than showroom new condition.
The Countach was penned by Marcello Gandini, the heralded designer of the legendary Miura, which both coined and revolutionized the consumer “super car”. Being the successor to the Miura was no easy act to follow, but Gandini created something just as memorable in a completely new and exciting way. Consisting nearly completely of flat, angular panels, the Countach assumes a bold wedge shape, both very wide and low. It is very clear that form came before function on the Countach, the scissor doors being necessary due to the width of the car (too wide for traditionally opening doors), and the fact that rear visibility was nonexistent at best. The best way to back this car into a spot? Sit on the sill with the driver’s door up and modulate the clutch while looking backward. The Countach made no excuses about its lack of “real world” aesthetics, and I love that.
This particular Countach was originally sold in Italy, but brought to the United States in January or 1983. It features a 4754cc version of the Weber carbureted V12 mated to a 5 speed manual gearbox. Good for 375hp and 302lb/ft, the LP500 S’ could accelerate from 0-60 in 5.7 sec, on the way to a 12.9 sec quarter mile. Top speed was 150mph.
While shooting the Countach, I had to take some time to walk around the car to pinpoint its best angles. It is admittedly a bit goofy looking from head on, as well as at low angles. But the profile and rear is where the design of the car really shines, showing off that huge wing that looks as though it could let the Coutach drive upside down.
Cars like this don’t come around every day, and this is a truly special example of the model. It will go to auction with Bonhams in March at Amelia Island, and if it strikes your fancy, it can be yours for a cool $500,000.
Enjoy the photos!
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