A legend reborn: Lamborghini reveals new Countach LPI 800-4 in full
Lamborghini has showcased its new Countach LPI 800-4 in full for the first time, following yesterday’s high profile leaks; detailing a car that takes the aging bones of the Aventador and reworks them with a series of callbacks to a design icon.
In releasing the new model’s full details, Lamborghini confirmed a lot of pundit suspicions. Chief among these were thoughts that the model was based on Aventador monocoque architecture, which is set to be retired as the brand pushes towards introducing electrification and the debut of a replacement.
The reality is slightly different, in that the model is based specifically on the Sian FKP 37, previously revealed as a concept in 2019. This was based on the Aventador platform, but threw in a mild-hybrid powertrain and a unique body as points of difference.
The Countach’s looks have divided fans, with some having pinned their hopes on the model being based on an all-new platform, instead of having to conform to the Aventador’s footprint and proportions. The NZ Autocar office reckoned the car looked sharp enough upon first sighting yesterday, but was held back by the constraints of the Aventador base.
The LPI 800-4 features all manner of Countach design throwbacks; from the Gandini rear arches, to the wedge-shaped front and pinched rear, to the outline of the rear fascia, to the shape of the headlights and the long, thin, rectangular grille. The body is entirely new, and is made out of carbon fibre.
It’s something of a mish mash of Countach models from different eras. The big, bold Naca-style ducts on the sides look like a direct reference to the last-gen 25th Anniversary model, as does the squared-off nature of the front bumper and the telephone dial wheels. But then other elements, like the side-on silhouette of the rear quarter, appear to embody early Countach models.
The model inevitably also features a healthy dose of elements from the Sian, too. These include the LED tail lights and some of the rear fascia’s proportions.
Under the rear hatch sits a mild-hybrid powertrain, consisting of the familiar 6.5-litre V12 engine paired to a 48-volt electric motor. The former produces 574kW of power and the latter 25kW, making for an overall output of 599kW. This gets sent to all four wheels (hence the ‘4’ in the name) via a7-speed automated manual box.
Other quirks? Well, like the Sian upon which it’s based, the Countach uses a supercapacitor instead of a lithium-ion battery for storing energy from regenerative braking. This is a weight-saving measure, complementing the use of carbon fibre for the panels.
Stomp the throttle, and Lamborghini claims the Countach will hit 100km/h in 2.8 seconds, 200km/h in 8.6 seconds, and hit a top speed of 355km/h. This places it on par with the Sian for acceleration.
Inside, the Countach uses a familiar dash layout as previously seen in the Aventador. But, it now features the centre stack from the Sian, plus bespoke air vents, different trim on the tunnel, and a new 8.4-inch infotainment screen. The cabin was revealed in a handsome red and black leather ensemble, but customers will be able to option whatever colour combination they want.
As previously reported, 112 Countach LPI 800-4s will be produced. Pricing hasn’t been confirmed, but it’s safe to assume it will be one of the most expensive Lamborghinis ever offered.
