Lamborghini Countach LP400S (1981)

Following on from the handful of bespoke widebody Countach Speciale’s built in 1976, the body modifications were reworked by Bertone’s head of design Marcello Gandini. In 1978, the production version arrived in the form of the LP400 S. Its arrival in 1978 fell during one of Lamborghini’s most turbulent times. Consistently poor decision making including the development of the ill-fated military Cheetah saw the company file for bankruptcy less than six months after the car was debuted at the Geneva Motorshow.

The LP400 S however was still the ultimate supercar, and the revisions introduced over the original LP400 were significant. Significantly lower profile, wider Pirelli P7 tyres, suspension revisions including thicker anti-roll bars and larger brakes were fitted.

Please note, this vehicle is no longer for sale.

Of roughly 250 RHD Countachs built, the LP400S is the rarest variant with just 19 RHD examples completed over three series. This example of the Series 3 is the 8th LP400S S3 making it 12th of 19 LP400S RHD worldwide. Leaving the the Lamborghini factory on 21st September 1981, the Countach was optioned in White over White and privately imported into South Africa, making it the 4th and final car to enter the continent. It is understood this example is 1 of just 7 cars to optioned with additional headroom.

Arriving at DK Engineering in 2023 for a total restoration, the car was stripped back to bare metal and, having lived in the sunnier climes of South Africa, was found to be remarkably rust free, unlike many RHD examples.

In late 2023, the Countach was freshly repainted in its original Bianco. Upon its return to DK Engineering, engine and gearbox work commenced. By early 2024, the engine was back in the car, works on the brakes and suspension began. With the works coming together, May of 2024 saw the interior fully retrimmed in Bianco leather. The restoration was completed in December 2024.

With kind thanks to Robert Westall.