1981 Lamborghini Countach LP400S

Lamborghini Countach Doors Open at Haynes Motor Museum

Key Stats

Year Built: 1981
Place Built: Sant'Agata Bolognese, Italy
Top Speed: 164mph
Engine: V12 3929cc
Horsepower: 375bhp
0-60: 5.9 seconds

The Lamborghini Countach redefined what a supercar could be. Its dramatic wedge-shaped body and ultra-low driving position stunned the motoring world when it was unveiled, while its iconic scissor doors – opening upwards and forwards – became an instant sensation. Today, they remain one of Lamborghini's most recognisable design signatures.

The Countach was created by a remarkable team of automotive visionaries. Its timeless styling was penned by Marcello Gandini at Bertone, whose portfolio also includes the Lamborghini Miura and Diablo, the Lancia Stratos and the Alfa Romeo Carabo concept.

Power came from Lamborghini's legendary V12 engine, originally designed by Giotto Bizzarrini, the engineer behind Ferrari's iconic 250 GTO and Formula One engines. The Countach was further developed by chief engineer Paolo Stanzani, who later worked on the Bugatti EB110, and Giulio Alfieri, celebrated for his work on Maserati's 'Birdcage' racing cars.

Together, they created a car whose bold styling and engineering brilliance continue to inspire supercars more than 50 years later.

The Lamborghini Countach LP400S is displayed in The Red Room Exhibition at Haynes Motor Museum.

Lamborghini Countach at The Red Room Exhibition at Haynes Motor Museum
  1. Girl Looking At Lamborghini Countach at Haynes Motor Museum

    Design Features

    Although the Countach underwent a series of styling updates during its 16-year production run, its distinctive shape remained virtually unchanged. The car's iconic wedge-shaped body was constructed from aluminium and featured prominent air intakes to improve engine cooling. Its V12 engine was mounted longitudinally, with the gearbox positioned ahead of it between the seats to achieve improved weight distribution.

    The V-shaped rear wing, like the one fitted to the car on display at Haynes Motor Museum, was an optional extra. Despite reducing the car's top speed by around 10 mph, it proved extremely popular and was chosen by most owners for its dramatic appearance.

     

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