The Lamborghini Countach is best known for its futuristic design, but behind the aesthetics is a lineage of evolving engineering over nearly two decades. Between 1974 and 1990, Lamborghini produced five main variants of the Countach, each reflecting significant mechanical and performance changes.
The first production model, the LP400, launched in 1974. It was powered by a 3,929 cc V12 engine, producing 370 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 266 lb-ft of torque. It featured six Weber 45 DCOE carburetors and a dry-sump lubrication system. This early version was the lightest of all Countach models, with a curb weight around 1,065 kg, and it could reach a top speed of approximately 280 km/h.
In 1978, Lamborghini introduced the LP400 S. Although it retained the same engine, power output dropped slightly due to emissions regulations and other changes. The LP400 S is notable for its introduction of the flared wheel arches, wide tires, and optional rear wing—features that became stylistic hallmarks of the Countach. Suspension geometry was revised to accommodate the larger wheels and tires, improving grip but increasing steering effort.
By 1982, the LP500 S arrived, featuring a larger 4,754 cc V12 engine. Power output increased to around 375 horsepower. The chassis and body remained largely the same as the LP400 S, but the increased displacement improved mid-range torque and drivability.
The LP5000 Quattrovalvole, or LP5000 QV, debuted in 1985 and marked the most substantial mechanical upgrade. Displacement was increased to 5.2 liters (5,167 cc), and the engine featured four valves per cylinder—hence the "Quattrovalvole" name. Output reached up to 455 horsepower, depending on market specification and whether it used fuel injection or carburetors. U.S. versions were equipped with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, while European models retained carburetors, mounted vertically due to the limited engine bay space.
Structurally, the LP5000 QV retained the steel tubular space frame and aluminum bodywork but added more bracing to handle the increased weight and power. Braking and cooling systems were also upgraded to manage the additional stress.
The final production variant was the 25th Anniversary Edition, released in 1988 to celebrate Lamborghini’s 25th year. Mechanically, it was based on the LP5000 QV but featured improved cooling, slightly refined aerodynamics, and updated bodywork styled under the direction of Horacio Pagani. While it was the heaviest version—over 1,500 kg curb weight—it was also the most refined in terms of build quality and reliability.
Across all versions, the Countach maintained its signature drivetrain layout: a longitudinal rear-mid-mounted V12, with a front-mounted transmission and a shaft running through the engine’s oil sump to the rear differential. Suspension geometry remained double-wishbone with coil springs, but with various tuning updates over the years.
Despite the Countach's heavy steering, poor rear visibility, and a stiff clutch it offered exceptional high-speed stability and cornering grip for its era.
Lamborghini Countach Technical Specs by Model
LP400 1974–1978
Engine 3.9L 3929 cc DOHC V12
Power 370 hp at 8000 rpm
Torque 266 lb-ft at 5000 rpm
Induction 6x Weber 45 DCOE carburetors
Transmission 5 speed manual
0 to 100 kmh approximately 5.6 seconds
Top Speed approximately 280 kmh or 174 mph
Curb Weight approximately 1065 kg
Brakes Ventilated discs
Notable Lightest version mechanically pure
LP400 S 1978–1982
Engine 3.9L DOHC V12 detuned
Power approximately 350 hp depending on series
Induction Carbureted
Transmission 5 speed manual
0 to 100 kmh approximately 6.0 seconds
Top Speed approximately 275 kmh or 171 mph
Curb Weight approximately 1200 kg
Suspension Revised for wider tires
Notable Introduced flared arches and optional rear wing
LP500 S 1982–1985
Engine 4.8L 4754 cc DOHC V12
Power approximately 375 hp
Torque approximately 302 lb-ft
Induction 6x Weber carburetors
0 to 100 kmh approximately 5.6 seconds
Top Speed approximately 290 kmh or 180 mph
Curb Weight approximately 1315 kg
Notable Increased displacement for better torque and drivability
LP5000 Quattrovalvole 1985–1988
Engine 5.2L 5167 cc DOHC V12 48 valve
Power 455 hp EU version 420 hp US version
Torque approximately 369 lb-ft
Induction Weber carburetors EU or Bosch K Jetronic injection US
0 to 100 kmh approximately 4.8 seconds
Top Speed approximately 295 kmh or 183 mph
Curb Weight approximately 1490 kg
Notable Strongest performer vertical carburetor setup in EU models
25th Anniversary Edition 1988–1990
Engine Same 5.2L 48 valve V12
Power approximately 455 hp
Torque approximately 369 lb-ft
Induction Same as LP5000 QV
0 to 100 kmh approximately 4.7 seconds
Top Speed approximately 295 kmh
Curb Weight approximately 1515 kg
Styling Redesigned by Horacio Pagani
Notable Most refined cooling improved best build quality.
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