Lot 127

Arizona 2020

1983 Lamborghini Countach LP5000 S by Bertone

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$268,800 USD | Sold

United States | Phoenix, Arizona

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Chassis No.
ZA9C00500CLA12548
Engine No.
12548
  • Extremely original matching-numbers example
  • Rare carbureted Countach
  • Single ownership for over 30 years
  • Engine rebuilt by Countach expert Evans Automotive
  • Includes reproduction manual and tool roll with jack

There is perhaps no more widely recognizable or iconic supercar than the dramatically styled Lamborghini Countach.

This rare matching-numbers side-draft carbureted example spent the majority of its life in the hands of a single owner, who purchased it at Milano Imports in Gilroy, California, with just 1,040 kilometers on the odometer in March 1987. The car includes documentation back to 1985, when it was imported by Chequered Flag in Los Angeles. During the federalization process, the Countach fortunately remained relatively undisturbed from an aesthetic standpoint. A rear bumper was fitted, as were side markers, but the stunning aesthetic of the front of the car is mercifully intact. Never restored but having been enthusiastically driven more than 58,000 kilometers, it shows some wear and signs of age, but remains stunningly well-preserved.

From a mechanical standpoint, it has been fastidiously maintained, including $76,000 of work performed 4,000 kilometers ago in 2005 by well-respected Countach experts Evans Automotive in Columbus, Ohio. This work is extensively photo-documented and included a complete engine rebuild with new JE pistons, new bearings, rebuilt carburetors, rebuilt heads with redone camshafts to European spec profiles, new guides, new timing chain, new water pump, rebuilt alternator, rebuilt ignition system including distributor, cap, rotor, and plug wires, new motor mounts, new AC evaporator core, new fuel pumps and lines, recoated headers, new oil lines and all-new belts, and coolant and heater hoses. The engine compartment was cleaned and cosmetically restored, and a new MSD ignition system was fitted, as well. The flywheel was machined and a new release bearing and Kevlar clutch fitted as well, along with new clutch hydraulic hoses and a rebuilt clutch cylinder. The transmission was gone through, including new synchromesh and new seals, as well. All four CV joints were also rebuilt, all four rear shocks rebuilt, and new bushings fitted, as well as the front control arms fitted with new bushings.

Today the Lamborghini is as stunning as ever, having never been restored or modified, and possessing an honest, undisturbed character but with the benefit of a comprehensively rebuilt drive train, allowing this iconic supercar to be driven by its next owner as it was originally intended.