When launched at the Geneva motor show in 1971, the Lamborghini Countach
was like a vision of the future, with its incredibly radical styling by
Bertone's Marcello Gandini. Through various evolutionary stages, the
Countach remained in production from 1973 to 1990 and during that time
1,997 examples were manufactured, making it exceedingly rare as well as
highly desirable. Subsequently the magnificent Countach has risen to
almost mythical status among collectors and enthusiasts. Now, as the
model approaches its 50th anniversary, two passionate and deeply
knowledgeable Countach co-owners have written an authoritative new book
-- the first English-language study of the car for 30 years -- to
celebrate this fabled Italian supercar in all its glory.
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The Countach's spectacular design and unique engineering are explored
in depth, including analysis of its Bizzarrini-designed V12 engine
with forward-mounted gearbox (giving 'south-north' orientation),
intricate spaceframe chassis and aerodynamics.
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Painstaking development of the original LP500 prototype into the final
LP400 production version is covered in detail, with insights into the
work of key figures Paolo Stanzani, Giampaolo Dallara, Bob Wallace and
Massimo Parenti.
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Production evolution is explained, from LP400 to LP400S and LP500S,
then the definitive 5000 Quattrovalvole (QV) versions with four-valve
cylinder heads, culminating in the '881/2' and '25th Anniversary'
models.
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For today's owners and aspiring owners, matters of maintenance and
restoration are investigated, with plenty of personal perspective.
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Speaking from the heart: Thillainathan Pathmanathan describes a
30-year journey towards Countach ownership, including visits to the
Sant'Agata factory and encounters with significant people in the
Countach story.
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Tonino Lamborghini, son of founder Ferrucio Lamborghini, provides a
special chapter dispelling common myths, misconceptions and mistakes
about the cars and the company.
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Comprehensive presentation of data includes the best available
information on the thorny subject of chassis numbering and production
figures.
Beautifully designed and illustrated, this book will be treasured not
only by Lamborghini fans but anyone who adores sports cars, especially
of the exotic Italian variety.
