Lamborghini countach lp500 s us prototype - guide - lamborghini countach lp500

Concurrent with the introduction of the 5000 QV in 1985, a US specification model was produced by the factory in order to meet United States federal safety and emissions standards. Changes to the American specification models included bulkier and more robust safety bumpers as the vehicle did not meet the American safety crash standards, and a Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system. Many owners removed the bumpers immediately or received their new cars without bumpers installed. The bulky appearance of the US specification bumpers was said to ruin the otherwise smooth lines of the body.

This car is actually the first LP500 S with US modifications, it was the Geneva Show car, after the show it was shipped to the US and received all modifications necessary to meet DOT and EPA standards in California.

This Countach was then tested and approved in Ann Arbor, Michigan, after six months in California the car was returned to the factory in Italy where is was to serve as the US prototype, the later actual US-Specifications Countach was closely based on this car, only the rear treatment was altered.

In 1986 it returned to the United States and was sold to a lucky customer, the color combination of silver metallic and blue leather interior was claimed to be unique until 1989.

An enthusiast acquired the car back in 1988 and used it mainly as a show car, occasionally displaying the car at various auto shows like the Monterrey Pebble Beach event. It was stored in a controlled environment since 1989 and only traveled to shows in an enclosed trailer, therefore this very rare Countach has only 13000 Km (about 8000 Miles) on the counter. This special Countach was sold in the United States after Lamborghini USA converted it from carburetors to an full electronic fuel injection.

Since this specific Countach is actually a one of a kind Lamborghini it would be a very nice addition to any collection, during late 2000 this car was for sale by the person who owned it since 1988.