The Countach LP 400S, launched by Lamborghini just four years after the production-ready Countach LP 400 was unveiled at the 1974 Geneva Salon, improved upon what was already an incredible and ground-breaking automobile. It goes without saying that Lamborghini had a big act to follow with the Countach’s first update, but the LP 400S definitely did not disappoint. Lamborghini knew that the Countach was still very much in style and had to retain the car’s visual flair to retain its character, but it also had to address minor updates that both the company and its paying customers had become aware of in the car’s teething years.

Looking to retain the same panache that made the Countach such a memorable car, the LP 400S still bore the instantly recognisable and highly aggressive Bertone styling, complete with its iconic scissor doors. The most notable change to the LP 400 S was that the car was fitted with wider Pirelli tyres, which helped to put the car’s 375 horsepower to the ground. As a result, the wheel wells were slightly flared to house the tyres and the suspension geometry was completely revised for the larger wheels and tyres. These changes made the Countach appear even more aggressive, and many LP400 owners opted to have their cars updated to LP 400S specifications. Performance remained incredible, and the car boasted a top speed of 179.8 mph.

With 237 examples produced, the Countach LP400S is divisible into three distinct series. The Countach presented here falls towards the end of the second series of cars, which is recognised for their smooth-finish wheels and lower suspension setting, whilst the third-series cars exhibited a slightly raised suspension.

This particular Countach LP 400S was purchased by its current custodian from the car’s second owner in 2005, and it was delivered new in Switzerland, where it resides today. The car remains in excellent condition and is said to be an excellent driver. Aside from an engine overhaul undertaken by the first owner, who enlisted a noted Lamborghini specialist in Switzerland, it remains in largely unrestored and original condition. During its current ownership, the car has been driven roughly 5,000 kilometres and always regularly serviced by an official Lamborghini distributor. With its finish of Rosso over a beige leather interior, the car presents exceptionally well. Accompanying the sale of the Countach are service invoices from the car’s current and previous ownerships.

With Countach production lasting over 15 years, the early LP400 and LP 400S models remain the most desirable to collectors and enthusiasts, not only for their performance but also for their rarity and excellent design. It offers slight updates over the Gandini’s original design and provides welcome updates to the LP 400 both inside and out. This particular example would be an excellent acquisition for someone looking to enjoy one of Lamborghini’s most iconic automobiles on the open road, and it will surely put a smile on the face of both drivers and passers-by whilst out and about.