Lamborghini Countach LP400 'Periscopo' 1975
General description :
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.
1975 Lamborghini Countach LP400 'Periscopo' is listed for sale on ClassicDigest in Ashford Kent by Matthew Honeysett for Not priced.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Lamborghini Model : Countach Model Version : LP400 'Periscopo' Engine size : 3.9 Model Year : 1975 Location : Ashford Kent Vehicle Registration : Undefined
Not priced
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About Lamborghini
Ah, the fiery tale of Lamborghini, a true icon born from the sparks of frustration with the Prancing Horse! Picture yourself in the early 1960s, a time when the automotive world was dominated by the likes of Ferrari. Now, enter Ferruccio Lamborghini, a successful tractor manufacturer and a man with a passion for powerful machines.Act 1: The Frustration (1963)
Ferruccio, a proud owner of several Ferraris, found himself dissatisfied with the clutch in his 250 GT. Frustrated, he marched into Enzo Ferrari's office to air his grievances. The meeting didn't go as planned, with Enzo dismissing Ferruccio's concerns, suggesting that he stick to building tractors. Well, that was like waving a red flag at a bull.
Act 2: The Birth of Lamborghini (1963)
Fuelled by a mixture of frustration and determination, Ferruccio decided to take matters into his own hands. In 1963, he founded Automobili Lamborghini. His vision? To create grand touring cars that rivaled, or even surpassed, the offerings of Ferrari.
Act 3: The Pioneering Models (1960s-1970s)
And thus, the Lamborghini legend began with the release of the Miura in 1966. Designed by Marcello Gandini, this mid-engined masterpiece was a trailblazer, the world's first true supercar. With a V12 engine mounted behind the driver, the Miura set the standard for performance and style.
Following the Miura's success, Lamborghini introduced the iconic Countach in the early '70s. Marcello Gandini once again worked his magic, giving birth to a wedge-shaped wonder that became a poster child for a generation. The Countach wasn't just a car; it was an automotive revolution.
Act 4: The Design Maestros
Behind the scenes, designers like Marcello Gandini and later Giugiaro played pivotal roles in shaping Lamborghini's distinct aesthetic. Gandini's work on the Miura and Countach cemented Lamborghini's reputation for bold, angular designs that pushed the boundaries of automotive styling.
Act 5: The Legacy and Modern Marvels
As the decades unfolded, Lamborghini continued to innovate and produce iconic models. The Diablo, Murciélago, Aventador, and the more recent Huracán and Urus all carry the Lamborghini DNA – a perfect blend of power, performance, and unmistakable design.
Epilogue: A Fierce Rivalry
The Lamborghini-Ferrari rivalry became legendary, driving both companies to push the limits of automotive engineering. Lamborghini, born out of frustration, emerged not just as a competitor but as a trailblazer, leading the way for mid-engined supercars that continue to captivate enthusiasts worldwide.
So, there you have it, the epic saga of Lamborghini – a story of frustration turned into a symphony of roaring engines, sleek designs, and a legacy that forever changed the landscape of high-performance automobiles.