Lamborghini Countach LP400 S LP500 S 1978

The Lamborghini Countach LP400 S, unveiled in 1978, marks a significant evolution of the original 1974 LP400 model. This version introduces a more aggressive appearance by adding wider wheel arches, broader tires, and the distinctive “telephone” style wheels. These enhancements intensify the car’s visual impact while retaining the sharp, angular silhouette that defines the Countach. This makeover positions the LP400 S as a pivotal moment in the classic Countach lineage.

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Lamborghini Countach LP400 S LP500 S 1978

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History

The Countach originated from a project unveiled in 1971 by Bertone’s design house under Marcello Gandini’s leadership. Following three years of development, the first production model, the LP400, was launched in 1974 featuring a clean design and a roof recess for the interior rear-view mirror, giving rise to the nickname “periscopio.” This initial version was produced until 1978, with 152 examples built. In the same year, the LP400 S was introduced to update the original styling with more pronounced and sporty features. This version marked a visual turning point for the Countach, featuring widened wheel arches and a more aggressive look while preserving the essence of the first generation. It set the stage for future models focused on increased engine displacement and mechanical enhancements, such as the 5000 S in 1982.

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Evolution

The 1978 LP400 S altered the Countach’s visual identity by adding wider wheel arch extensions, allowing for the use of lower-profile, wider Pirelli tires, and incorporating the distinctive “telephone” style wheels. It also featured an added front spoiler below the bumper, giving the car a more aggressive and broadened stance. This visual shift contrasted with the original LP400’s narrow arches and simpler lines, becoming a hallmark of the widened Countach silhouette seen in later versions.

1978Countach LP400 S - LP500 S

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Variants

The LP400 S is characterized mainly by aesthetic upgrades rather than mechanical changes. Inspired by a special Countach created for Walter Wolf, it retains the LP400’s V12 engine but stands out with wider tires, extended wheel arches, unique wheels, and a more prominent front spoiler. This more dramatic appearance served as a precursor to future developments, particularly the 1982 5000 S, which followed by increasing engine displacement while maintaining a similar look.

References

50 Years Ago the First Countach in Sant’Agata BologneseAutomobili Lamborghini
Supports the production periods, production quantities, visual distinctions and technical evolution of the LP400, LP400 S, 5000 S, Quattrovalvole and 25th Anniversary.
Lamborghini Countach: design that made historyAutomobili Lamborghini
Supports the role of Marcello Gandini and the main design characteristics of the Countach.
New Countach LPI 800-4: Future is our legacyAutomobili Lamborghini
Supports the 2021 revival, 112-car production run and commemorative positioning of the LPI 800-4.
Countach LPI 800-4Automobili Lamborghini
Supports the modern model’s hybrid system, V12 output, combined 814 CV power, all-wheel drive and performance specifications.
https://www.lamborghini.com/en-en/news/countach-lpi-800-4-debuts-on-the-roadlamborghini.com
Source found by OpenAI web search for this model page.
https://www.lamborghini.com/jp-en/%E3%83%8B%E3%83%A5%E3%83%BC%E3%82%B9/50-years-ago-the-first-countach-in-santagata-bologneselamborghini.com
Source found by OpenAI web search for this model page.
https://www.lamborghini.com/en-en/news/lamborghini-history-countach-and-lm-002lamborghini.com
Source found by OpenAI web search for this model page.
https://www.lamborghini.com/en-en/news/an-exclusive-customer-experience-for-countach-ownerslamborghini.com
Source found by OpenAI web search for this model page.