After kicking off the mid-engine revolution with the Miura in 1966, Lamborghini needed to develop an equally groundbreaking follow-up to stay competitive with Ferrari and keep the order books full. Taking many of the lessons learned during the Miura’s production into account, the new car – called the LP112 during preproduction – was to have an even more striking design than the outgoing model, while also addressing many of the driveability and usability issues that plagued the Miura.

Named the Countach, this new model went into production towards the end of 1974 and was offered in five distinct variants throughout its 16-year production run. Its unique shape, penned by Marcello Gandini while working for Bertone, was the ultimate in wedge styling and provided a perfect canvas for adding flares, wings, and side skirts as the generations progressed.

This 1984 Countach is from the 5000S series, which was built between 1982 and 1985. The move from the LP400S to the 5000S saw minimal changes to the exterior styling, but a slightly revised interior as well as an increase in engine displacement from 3.9 to 4.8 liters. This boost in displacement equated to more usable torque lower in the rev range, as well as a significant increase in horsepower, ensuring that the Countach had performance to match its looks.

Finished in a vibrant red over black color scheme, this Countach was imported into the US by Meadowlands Car Imports of New Jersey in August 1983, and sold to a New York-based collector who retained it for more than 35 years. Carefully preserved under his ownership and showing 17,793 km (approx. 11,056 miles) at the time of cataloguing, the Countach’s paint, which is believed to be original, presents in excellent condition and the car retains its original glass all around.

Sitting on a set of the legendary silver-finish, five-hole wheels with their “Ruote O.Z.” stickers still intact, this car benefits from a brand-new set of Pirelli P Zero tires at all four corners. On the rear deck sits a factory-fitted rear wing, which was optioned at a cost of $5,500 in period, and is the perfect addition to the already outrageous silhouette.

The 4.8-liter V-12 situated behind the passenger compartment is fitted with six sidedraft Weber carburetors, which are believed to add 20 hp over the fuel-injected version for a total of 368 hp. Subject to a thorough recent servicing in November 2024, the car received new plugs and wires, an oil service, and new battery.

Accompanied by its original tool kit, jack, handbook folio, and original spare tire assembly, this Countach 5000S represents a very honest and complete example of the ultimate 1980s supercar.