Update: We’ve added some additional information from an interview with Lamborghini’s Chief Technology Officer.
Yes, the Lamborghini Countach really has returned, though only for a seriously limited run. Not only that, it’s more of a retro Sían than its own unique model. But that also means it packs Lamborghini’s most technologically advanced powertrain yet. According to Lamborghini’s Chief Technology Officer Maurizio Reggiani, the car is meant as more of a “celebration” or tribute to the car that set the pattern for future Lamborghinis, rather than a revival or reintroduction of the model.
Lamborghini really leaned into the retro cues on this new Countach, too. It’s mainly based on the original prototype and production models. The prototype design cues come in with the louvred vents behind the side windows, the horizontal slit of a front grille and the way the rear window and engine cover blend together. Then there’s a dash of the early production models with the enormous interpretation of the side NACA ducts. The wheels have a nod to later Countach models with circular openings between the spokes like past phone-dial wheels. And the rectangular headlights and trapezoidal wheel arches are just universal Countach touchstones. The car also features quad exhaust tips, which is unique among Aventador-derived Lamborghinis. The interior on the other hand is pretty much modern Lamborghini, though the seats get similar stitching to older models.
Powering the Countach is the Sían’s mild-hybrid 6.5-liter V12. It makes 803 horsepower in total, with most of it coming from the engine. In fact, 769 of those ponies come from the V12, while 34 come from the 48-volt electric motor. It gets its electrons from a lightweight and fast charging and discharging supercapacitor, though. The engine winds up to 8,700 rpm, and it’s in the same longitudinal layout as Lamborghinis stretching back to, well, the original Countach. It’s connected to a seven-speed automated manual transmission and powers all four wheels. Apparently, the powertrain was retuned for smoother shifting. But the company didn’t sacrifice any performance, as Lamborghini claims a 0-62 mph time of 2.8 seconds and a top speed of 221 mph. It also features pushrod suspension with magnetorheological adjustable shocks, and carbon ceramic brakes with six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers.
Only 112 Countachs will be built. The number comes from the protoype’s designation LP 112. No pricing was given, but it doesn’t really matter, as Reggiani told us the car is already sold out. The lucky customers will get their cars in the first quarter of 2022.
