WHAT IS IT?
While the Lamborghini Countach dominates our collective memory as the definitive supercar of the 1980s, its story began in 1971—characterized by its aggressive, low-slung stance and angular shape.
The introduction of the Countach LP400 S in 1978 brought substantial changes, namely its massive 345-section rear tires and their accompanying wide fenders. By the 1980s, the silhouette had grown both wider and taller by two inches, the design had also been updated with aesthetic and functional vents having been added. Also contributing to the Countach’s now-iconic silhouette was an optional V-shaped rear wing and signature Campagnolo “telephone dial” wheels. The 1982 model year saw another update dubbed the LP500 S, with an increase in displacement to 4.8 liters. The LP5000 Quattrovalvole followed in 1985, marking what most collectors consider to be the pinnacle of Countach development. Its mechanical specification centered around another enlargement of Lamborghini’s Bizzarrini V12 engine to 5.2 liters with four valves per cylinder head, now rated up to 449 horsepower and 369 ft-lb of torque. Affectionately known by enthusiasts today as the Countach “Downdraft,” carbureted QVs were the most powerful production variant of the Countach and are fiercely prized today.
WHY THIS ONE HAS BEST ONE ON THE PLANET CHOPS
This European-market 1985 Lamborghini Countach 5000 Quattrovalvole, is one of less than 380 QVs equipped with the coveted six double-barrel carburetor configuration between 1985 and 1988. Early QVs also benefit from the so-called “round belly” design, named for its absence of side skirts added on later cars, arguably making this particular variant of the “Downdraft” the ultimate Countach specification within the Lamborghini collector’s view.
Judging by this “Downdrafts” condition, this example has clearly been cherished by enthusiast owner-collectors throughout its life and to date. It presents in its original Rosso finish with original Panna leather hides, both in absolutely superb condition. This Countach comes from Autosport Designs in Huntington Station, NY, and will be on the show field at the 2025 Greenwich Concours!
the Lamborghini Countach dominates our collective memory as the definitive supercar of the 1980s
https://autosport.dealeraccelerate.net/vehicles/2507/1985-lamborghini-countach-5000-qv-downdraft
What a bucket list car. I remember the Detroit Auto Show in the early 80’s when the Lamborghini display in the back of the arena was one car and a TV set on a table playing a VHS loop of the 60 Minutes segment with Valentino Bamboni driving the red Countach on country roads. I must have been around 12 years old and my chest hair count increased exponentially watching that.
I’m hesitant here, not because of the evident quality of the car, and the fact that this is a highly reputable seller, but simply because there are so many lightly used, low-mileage Countaches out there. While this is an unusual, (and very attractive variant), with cars like this, it always seems like there’s an equally nice or better one out there somewhere.