Mileage:  29,685 (Miles)
Year:  1974
Colour:  Yellow
Drive:  RHD

Description

The Lamborghini Countach was first revealed to the world in Prototype form at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show, with customer cars eventually being delivered in 1974 following the conclusion of Miura production. The Countach was a significant development from its predecessor in all key areas, utilising the mid-rear mounted 3.9-liter V-12 by Giotto Bizzarrini, that was initially used in the 350 GT with a complex spaceframe clothed with panels constructed from both steel and aluminium. The design of the Countach remains to this day one of the most striking and iconic in automotive history; Gandini’s wedge design with scissor doors that remains the blueprint for Lamborghini’s supercars to this very day. This design was at its most pure (and arguably prettiest) with the first Countach derivative, the LP 400 ‘Periscopio’ and we are delighted to bring this example to the market for the first time in several decades, remaining with its current keeper since 2001. Chassis no. 1120168 was delivered new to South Africa and is believed to be the first of just two LP400s that were allocated to the South African market. This example was originally configured in a special non-Lamborghini colour named ‘Llandudno Blue’, paying tribute to Llandudno Beach, a picturesque location in the Western Cape. Brian Ferris, the sole official Lamborghini importer took the LP400 to numerous shows and promotional events before it was sold to its first official owner, a wealthy gentleman who owned a restaurant group. Changing hands in quick succession, the car was sold to its second owner and subsequently bought back by Brian Ferris in 1985. Ferris commissioned a cosmetic refresh to the car having it finished in Rosso. As a young man in the 80s, this LP400’s current owner travelled to South Africa to play golf on the Sunshine Tour. Driving through Johannesburg in a minibus full of enthusiastic pro golfers, they approached a glass-front showroom full of cars. Sat at the very front, a ‘blood red’ Countach poised toward the streetside. He vividly remembers pointing out the car to his fellow golfers, explaining how it was one of the fastest and most expensive cars in the world at the time, and that South Africa’s import tax on cars was 100%. This Countach LP400 was sold and exported to the UK in 1989, first registered to a Mr R. Rashidian who resided in London. Shortly after purchasing the car, the UK concessionaire Portman Lamborghini were commissioned to conduct a major restoration which was completed in July 1991, with the car now finished in Giallo Fly. On completion of the restorative works the LP400 was entered into the Christies’ Historic Weekend Concours where it deservedly won a trophy. Moving forward, the Countach would change hands between various enthusiasts, with Toby Smith of Jamiroquai (then keyboardist and co-songwriter) purchasing the car in 1997. In 2001, the current keeper was leaving his father’s residence to journey home, but before he could leave his father said ‘‘You’ve left your car magazine on the chair’’. Confused, he took the magazine from his father and said ‘’I didn’t have one’’. Flicking through the magazine, he came across an advert for his dream car – an LP400 in yellow at a London based garage. A moment of disbelief, but a timely one nonetheless, he nostalgically smiled as he thought back to seeing an LP400 in the showroom in Johannesburg, and how he had an official brochure on his bedroom wall while at school. Realising he had the opportunity to now purchase his dream car, the gentleman drove to London to view the Countach. On arrival to the garage where this Countach was for sale, he excitably walked around the car, taking in the distinctive wedged profile and feeling overwhelmed by its astounding presence. The Countach was started up with a sonorous exhaust note to follow, leaving him thinking one thing – ‘’I had to have it’’. A deal was finalised, and so this long and memorable ownership journey would begin. Some years later, and with extensive research, this LP400’s current owner would learn that his car was remarkably the very example he saw in the showroom window in Johannesburg. ‘’It was only many years later, after purchasing my Countach that I discovered the ‘Blood red’ car was indeed the very same one. Must be fate!’’ Over the last 24 years, this Countach LP400 has been cherished and used sparingly by its current owner, covering just a few thousand kilometres. The car’s presentation, which is excellent in all regards, is a testament to the careful ownership and consistent maintenance its seen throughout its life. The Countach has been maintained by Lamborghini main dealers and notable specialist Mike Pullen of Carrera Sport, with the most recent works completed in September 2025.  Accompanying the Countach is an extensive history file with dozens of invoices, receipts, MOT certificates, bills of sale, original leather wallet, and owner’s handbook. Chassis no. 1120168 is believed to be one of just 19 examples built by Lamborghini in right-hand drive and is likely one of a handful in the UK today with such a complete and traceable history. Now offered for sale, this LP400 poses an exciting opportunity to purchase what is undoubtably one of the rarest and most collectible cars in the world. Suitable for any enthusiast’s collection, this example would make a fitting addition for those who wish to experience the thrills and raw-engagement that only a very early Countach could offer. Furlonger workshops will conduct a comprehensive service with any required mechanical preparation within the sale of this car.  

Lamborghini Countach LP400 Periscopio

£999,990
Added: 2 days ago
Last checked: 56 years ago

Simon Furlonger
Kent, United Kingdom

Last seen:  3 years ago

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