Automobili Lamborghini celebrates the 50th anniversary of the iconic Countach with the release of a limited edition model that looks like it has made its way from the future: the Countach LPI 800-4.
A worthy homage to the design and rule-breaking technology of the Countach, this 21st century recreation is immediately recognised by its puristic lines. It imagines how the iconic Countach of the ‘70s and ‘80s might have evolved into an elite super sports model of this decade – bringing together today’s cutting-edge design and technology avenues, while staying true to the Lamborghini DNA.
Unconventionally edgy
The new Countach LPI 800-4 is recognised by its distinctive silhouette, with the essential line running from front to rear, sharp angles and lines, as well as the idiosyncratic wedge shape. Its final look is pure and uncluttered – perfect for those who appreciate a minimalist yet modern design. With references to the first LP 500 and LP 400 production versions, inspirations have also been taken from the Quattrovalvole edition, which can be seen in the assertive front bonnet and the wheel arches with their hexagonal theme.
The rear of the limited edition Countach sports a distinctive inverted wedge shape, with the rear bumper featuring a lower, sleeker line, and the ‘hexagonita’ design sharping the three-unit rear light clusters. It also comes fitted with the four-strong exhaust tail pipes of the Countach family, connected within the carbon fibre rear diffuser. The infamous scissor doors provide access for the driver and passenger, a feature first introduced on the Countach that became a Lamborghini V12 signature.
A new era of performance
Powering the Countach LPI 800-4 is its aspirated V12 6.5-litre engine that’s combined with a 48 volt e-motor mounted directly on the gearbox. It retains the inimitable V12 experience and sound from its Longitudinale Posteriore (LP) mounted powerplant combined with the hybrid (I) technology developed for the Sián. Delivering 814 cv as maximum combined power from its aspirated powerplant and electric motor to its permanent four-wheel drive transmission, the LPI 800-4 is able to make the century sprint in just 2.8 seconds, and 0-200 km/h in 8.6 seconds, with a top speed of 355 km/h.
To create a lightweight solution while providing exceptional torsional stiffness, the monocoque chassis and all the body panels are made of carbon fibre. Visible exterior carbon fibre features are available in the front splitter, around the front window and wing mirrors, engine bonnet cover air intakes and rocker panel, as well as the specific interior details.
Other notable features include the 3D-printed moveable air vents, as well as the photochromatic roof – changing from solid to transparent at the push of a button – which acts as a reminder that this car, despite its historic inspiration, is a future automotive for the 21st century.
An aesthetic for the future
The Countach LPI 800-4 is offered in a wide range of exterior paint options, ranging from classic solid colours such as Impact White, Giallo Countach, and Verde Medio, as well as contemporary options such as Viola Pasifae and Blu Uranus. It’s also equipped with 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels created in the ‘telephone’ style of the ‘80s, fitted with carbon ceramic brake discs, and Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres.
Within, the interior also takes design cues from the original Countach, with classic leather and geometric stitching on the comfort seats and dashboard, sporting a square motif referencing the style of ‘70s design and technology. An 8.4-inch HDMI centre touchscreen unique to this new model manages the car controls, including Connectivity and Apple CarPlay. It also includes a unique ‘Stile’ (Design) button which, when pressed, explains the Countach design philosophy.
Limited to only 112 units, the number itself denotes the ‘LP 112’ internal project name used during the original Lamborghini Countach’s development. The Countach LPI 800-4 will be delivered from the first quarter of 2022 to owners worldwide. For more details, visit the Lamborghini website.
Photos: Lamborghini