1975 Lamborghini Countach LP400 ‘Periscopio’ by Bertone

There is something about the design aesthetic of 1970s Lamborghini’s that we are drawn to, like moth to flame, here at The Coolector and there are few better examples as to why this is the case than the superbly impactful and retro-tastic 1975 Lamborghini Countach LP400 ‘Periscopio’ by Bertone going under the hammer with RM Sotheby’s as part of their Guikas Collection. This extraordinary looking machine will definitely become the centrepiece of one lucky classic car collector in 2022.

The 1975 Lamborghini Countach LP400 ‘Periscopio’ by Bertone has a guide price of, a rather eye-watering, $850k to $1m so, needless to say, only the deep-pocketed need apply. This lot is one of a mere 157 desirable LP400 ‘Periscopio’ examples made so you’ll certainly be in mighty exclusive company should you be the lucky one when the hammer goes down on this lot. It is finished in black over a black leather interior and it is a highly desirable early example with adjustable suspension and lightweight mechanical components.

BACK TO BLACK

When the Lamborghini Countach was first showcased as the marque’s flagship, replacing the iconic Miura, the supercar’s eye-catching design drew widespread acclaim. On the first showing of the LP500 prototype at the Geneva Motor Show in 1971, it immediately set itself apart from its predecessor with its wedge shape and angular edges; such proportions had rarely been seen on a supercar before. But the bold design of the Countach presented problems, as the car’s unique shape restricted visibility. As a result, Lamborghini devised a solution: a novel “periscope” mirror system. And that’s what you’ve got a chance to own here courtesy of RM Sotheby’s.

This spectacular 1975 Lamborghini Countach LP400 ‘Periscopio’ by Bertone going up for sale with RM Sotheby’s (guide price $1m approx) is understood to have been the 55th Countach that was made by Lamborghini. It was originally finished in red over black and later repainted to its present dramatic combination. It was delivered brand new to a customer in Milan, before the car was sold to its next owner in Bologna in 1977. It was exported to the United States that same year, where it was received by Auto Palace of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Walker Inman Jr. would own the car for 12 years; its next three owners were all based in California.

The Countach was, without question, one of the defining supercars of the 20th century, and early LP400 ‘Periscopio’ examples like this one from RM Sotheby’s are particularly well appreciated for remaining the closest to Lamborghini’s bold original vision for the vehicle. The sale includes a Lamborghini Countach manual, licence plates from a previous Italian registration, a spare wheel, and tool kit. Love old school Lamborghinis? They don’t come much better than this.

Leo Davie