Lamborghini · 1970s
Lamborghini Countach
1974–1990
455 hp
Horsepower
183 mph
Top Speed
4.9s
0–60 mph
Italy
Origin
Lamborghini Countach Visualizer
About
The Lamborghini Countach defined the supercar silhouette for decades. With its dramatic wedge shape, scissor doors, and mid-mounted V12, it represented the absolute limit of automotive design and performance of its era.
Engine
5.2L V12
Production
2,042 units
Designer
Marcello Gandini / Bertone
Country
Italy
Concept (LP 500) debuted at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show
Production began in 1974 as the LP 400
Scissor doors (Lambo doors) became a defining characteristic
LP 500 S introduced wider bodywork and rear wing in 1982
Final 25th Anniversary Edition produced from 1988–1990
Directly inspired the design language of all future Lamborghinis
The name 'Countach' is a Piedmontese exclamation of astonishment — roughly translating to 'holy cow!'
Designers had to sit on the door sill and crane their neck out the window to reverse, as rear visibility was near zero.
The iconic rear wing seen on later models actually reduced top speed due to added drag.
Rowan Atkinson (Mr. Bean) owned and loved a Countach.
Due to its extreme heat build-up, early owners were advised to avoid stop-and-go traffic.
Why It's Legendary
"The Countach is the car that invented the modern concept of the supercar poster. Its jaw-dropping wedge shape was so radical in 1974 that people assumed it was a show car. The scissor doors became Lamborghini's DNA, and no car before or since has covered more teenage bedroom walls."
Car of the Year — Road & Track 1975
Most Influential Supercar Design — Multiple publications
The Cannonball Run (1981 film)
Numerous 1980s music videos
Poster car for millions of bedrooms worldwide