95
1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary
Estimate:
€360,000 - €420,000

Complete Description

French title
Chassis n° ZA9C005A0KLA12818

- Purchased new by Gerhard Berger, Formula 1 driver

- Only three owners

- 40,500 km original mileage, full service history

- A masterpiece designed by Marcello Gandini


In 1971, at the Geneva Motor Show, Lamborghini unveiled the LP500 concept car, a V12 engine model with a 5-liter displacement derived from the Miura. With its angular lines and bold appearance, this prototype was designed to restore the brand's image after the Jarama, which was considered too tame. It was an immediate success, and in 1974, the car became the LP 400 model, featuring a 4-liter V12 engine producing 375 horsepower. The bodywork was designed by Marcello Gandini for Bertone, and the name "Countach," a Piedmontese exclamation meaning "Fabulous," was inspired by Nuccio Bertone's reaction when he first saw the car in public.

The Countach evolved over the years with versions such as the LP 400 S (1978) with a more aggressive design, the LP 500 S (1982) with a 375-horsepower engine, and the LP 5000 QV (1985) with a Quattro Valvole 5.2-liter engine producing 455 horsepower. In 1988, Lamborghini introduced the 25th Anniversario to celebrate the brand’s 25th anniversary. This model was based on the 5000 QV but featured aesthetic and technical improvements, including distinctly "American" design elements (US homologated bumpers). Only 650 examples of this model were produced until 1990.

The 25th Anniversary version represents the pinnacle of the Countach range, with subtle improvements both aesthetically and technically. Horacio Pagani, who was working at Lamborghini at the time, modified the air intakes for better cooling of the carbon disc brakes and refined the side skirts to optimize airflow. Beautiful removable OZ aluminum wheels were also installed. Comfort was also improved with the addition of electric seats, electric windows, and upgraded air conditioning.

In 1989, Gerhard Berger, who had just finished 3rd in the 1988 Formula 1 World Championship and won the Italian Grand Prix, was still driving for Ferrari. However, after a serious accident and a victory at the Imola Grand Prix, he announced his move to McLaren. It was during this period, just before leaving Ferrari, that he ordered this Lamborghini Countach, which he had previously owned in its 5000 QV version before joining Scuderia Ferrari in 1987. The car's complete file includes the purchase invoice in the name of Gerhard Berger, as well as another invoice for the installation of an alarm. The service book is stamped with a 1990 revision when the car had 2,183 km on the odometer.

The vehicle was then purchased by the next owner in 2002, with 11,000 km on the clock. It has since been regularly maintained, particularly by the specialist Calderoni in Lyon, with many invoices included in the file and technical inspections carried out since 2002. In 2016, the wheels were replaced, and cosmetic work was done for a total of €40,000, according to the invoice (with an expert report included). The current owner acquired it from the second owner after the car was entered into an auction.

We offer you the opportunity to acquire one of the most iconic supercars of the 1990s, in exceptional condition, having been owned for over 10 years by one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers, a teammate of Ayrton Senna, Nigel Mansell, and Jean Alesi, and 3rd in the World Championship in 1988 and 1994. A unique opportunity to own a legend with a top-tier pedigree!


Photos © Kevin Van Campenhout

Contacts

Anne Claire MANDINE
Auctioneer
Tel. +33 1 42 99 20 73
acmandine@artcurial.com
Anne-Claire MANDINE
Sale Administrator
Tel. +33 1 42 99 20 73
motorcars@artcurial.com

Absentee & Telephone Bids

Kristina Vrzests
Tel. +33 1 42 99 20 51
bids@artcurial.com

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