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The Lamborghini Countach is a legendary supercar that captured the hearts of automotive enthusiasts worldwide. Its revolutionary design and exhilarating performance made it an iconic symbol of automotive excellence. Among the numerous iterations of the Countach, the first LP500S/LP5000S holds a special place in Lamborghini’s history. This particular model, showcased at the 1982 Geneva Motor Show, possesses rare early production features that make it a truly exceptional find. With a fascinating ownership history and a collection of accompanying materials, this LP500S Countach offers a unique opportunity for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The Birth of a Legend
Introduced at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show, the Lamborghini Countach prototype stunned the audience with its futuristic design. Designed by Marcello Gandini for Bertone, the Countach drew inspiration from previous concept cars. Its angular lines and aggressive styling set new standards for automotive design. After several years of development and refinement, Lamborghini commenced production in 1974, and the Countach quickly became a symbol of automotive excellence.
The LP500S/LP5000S Evolution
In 1982, Lamborghini engineer Giulio Alfieri took the Countach to the next level with the introduction of the LP500S. This updated model featured a larger 4.8-liter V12 engine, increased bore and stroke, lower compression, and larger Weber twin-choke carburetors. With a factory-advertised output of 375 bhp, the LP500S offered exhilarating performance. Its acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in less than 5.0 seconds and a top speed of up to 182 mph cemented its status as a true supercar.
The “Lost” First 5L Countach
This LP500S holds a significant place in Lamborghini’s history as the first five examples produced of the updated LP500S model. It was also one of the five early cars fitted with the “5L” logo on the rear. Exhibited at the 1982 Geneva Motor Show, this Countach garnered attention and admiration. Its provenance reveals that it was sold new in Italy before finding its way to Germany and then the United States. In 1985, it was acquired by Carlos Cavazo, the lead guitarist of the popular glam-metal group Quiet Riot. Mr. Cavazo modified the car to comply with California emissions regulations, replacing the Weber carburetors with a BMW-type electronic fuel-injection system.
35 Years of Ownership
Carlos Cavazo owned this LP500S Countach for an impressive 35 years. He drove it sparingly, with reports suggesting that he reached speeds of about 150 mph only once. The car accumulated 66,198 kilometers (41,100 miles) under his ownership, primarily before the year 2000. After that, it was stored at Franco Barbuscia’s renowned exotic-car shop in Van Nuys, California, for two decades. The Countach was in line for restoration before Franco Barbuscia’s passing in 2021. Consequently, the car is now being offered in its original, “as-discovered” condition.
A Treasured Discovery
This LP500S Countach has recently resurfaced after spending approximately 20 years hidden away in California. Previously off the radar, it remained relatively unknown to the public. However, recently discovered period photos of the car at the 1982 Geneva Motor Show, as well as an official Lamborghini letter from March 1982, confirm its historical significance. The Countach retains many original features, including the early “5S” badging, Campagnolo cast magnesium wheels, and LP400S-type fender flares. A visual inspection by Lamborghini factory test driver Valentino Balboni further confirms the car’s authenticity.
A True Collector’s Gem
The LP500S Countach represents the pinnacle of Lamborghini’s design and engineering prowess. With its distinctive appearance, breath taking performance capabilities, and low mileage, this first-year LP500S Countach is a truly exceptional supercar. Its rarity, combined with its historical significance, makes it a highly desirable collector’s item. For Lamborghini enthusiasts and collectors of iconic supercars, this “Holy Grail” LP500S Countach offers an incredible opportunity to restore and own one of the most important examples in existence.
The LP500S/LP5000S Lamborghini Countach marked a significant milestone in the evolution of the iconic supercar. With its groundbreaking design and exhilarating performance, it captivated automotive enthusiasts worldwide.
This particular LP500S, exhibited at the 1982 Geneva Motor Show, possesses rare early production features that make it a remarkable find. With its fascinating ownership history, period photos, Lamborghini press release, and accompanying documentation, this LP500S Countach represents an extraordinary opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to own a piece of Lamborghini’s illustrious history.
This extraordinary car is for sale at Driver Source – https://www.driversource.com/vehicles/1509/1982-lamborghini-countach