While many observers believed the time had passed for Lamborghini’s outrageous Countach, the 1984 arrival of Ferrari’s Testarossa ironically gave the Countach and Lamborghini a new lease on life. Building upon the already formidable Countach LP500S, Lamborghini counterattacked with Giulio Alfieri fortifying Lamborghini’s renowned DOHC V-12 engine with a displacement increase to 5,167 cc, an updated intake system, and a set of free-breathing Quattrovalvole four-valve cylinder heads giving rise to the QV suffix of the new 5000 QV.

A ferocious performer, the QV developed 455 hp at 7,000 rpm in European specification, yielding top speeds nearing 170 mph and 0-60 sprints in less than five seconds. While export models for the US were rated at 420 hp with Bosch electronic fuel injection, they still soundly prevailed over the much-hyped 390 hp Ferrari Testarossa. Debuted at the March 1985 Geneva Auto Show, the 5000 QV triumphantly returned Lamborghini to the peak of the European supercar pyramid. A comparison test of the various Countach models in the UK magazine Classic & Sports Car during the 2000s summarized the 5000 QV’s impact fittingly: “At a stroke, the Countach was relevant again.” According to the International Lamborghini Registry, just 610 of these striking performers were built from 1985 to 1988.

Retaining its original Rosso Siviglia (Seville Red) paint over Senape (Mustard) leather upholstery, this US-specification Lamborghini Countach 5000 QV wasmanufactured in December 1986 and sold new in Massachusetts on September 17, 1987. A truly captivating, virtual time warp example, this Countach remains incredibly original as offered. Just 22,000 km (13,700 miles) have been traveled, as tracked by the service records, CARFAX, and AutoCheck vehicle history reports on file. According to the consignor, no paint or upholstery work is believed to have been performed and all identification decals, plaques, etched glass, and zinc-plated items remain in place, plus iconic Oro OZ wheels and a requisite Alpine stereo.

The same dedication that went into preserving this Countach’s original cosmetics is also reflected in its mechanical condition, supported by nearly two decades and over $40,000 in meticulous service records that accompany this truly extraordinary car. Additional items include the factory original tool roll, unused spare with retaining straps, owner’s manuals, spare keys, and a DVD called The Lamborghini Experience – 40 Years of Excellence, which features the Countach. Most recently, the Countach was completely and professionally detailed for an attractive presentation. Incredibly honest and well-sorted with confirmed mileage and history, this high-specification 1987 Lamborghini Countach 5000 QV marks one of the finest variations of one of the most iconic supercars ever produced.