First unveiled in prototype form in 1971 at the Geneva Motor Show before later entering production in 1974, the Lamborghini Countach is unequivocally one of, if not the single most influential and game-changing supercar of all time, with even today’s high-performance exotics boasting traits that can be traced back to the mighty Countach. Designed by Marcello Gandini for Bertone, the Countach would remain in production for over 15 years and was produced across multiple variants during this time. There was the original LP400 in ’74, followed by the LP400S in ’78, and then the LP500S in ’82. In total just 321 units of the LP500S-spec Countach were built — the very first of which to ever leave the factory is now up for grabs.
The brainchild of famed engineer Giulio Alfieri, the LP500S featured the same mid-mounted DOHC engine as the LP400S, though was bored out to 4.8 liters and bestowed with lowered compression and bigger Weber twin-choke carbs — changes that collectively enabled the V-12 to put down 375hp at 7,500RPM. The updates for the LP500S-spec also saw new bodywork that gained a novel front spoiler design, new flared fenders, and a redesigned rear-end. No doubt helped along by its revised set of wedge-shaped bodywork, the 12-cylinder engine also allowed the LP500S — which was also sometimes badged as an “LP5000S” — to clock sub-5-second 0-60mph runs and achieve a top speed of over 180mph. The LP500S also features a five-speed manual transaxle, four-wheel independent coil-spring suspension, and four-wheel Girling ventilated disc brakes.
One of only five examples to wear a “5L” badge on its tail, this particular ’82 example was displayed at the Lamborghini stand at the 1982 Geneva Motor Show and sports numerous early production features that didn’t make it onto later examples. Following its show appearance, this ’82 specimen was first purchased in Italy, before being shipped to Germany and then finally to America where it would eventually come into the tutelage of Quiet Riot lead guitarist Carlos Cavazo who would keep the ’82 Countach in his possession for 35 years. Riding on its original Campagnolo cast magnesium wheels, this example has accumulated only 41,100 original miles since leaving the factory. Alongside the Lamborghini supercar itself, this private sale also includes an original unmounted factory rear wing, factory tool roll, factory spare wheel, factory literature, and a slew of service records.
Offered as a private sale through Gooding & Company, the first 1982 Lamborghini Countach LP500S (Chassis # ZA9C00500CLA12472) ever built is available now with an asking price of $785,000.
