The 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary marks the final and most refined evolution of the iconic wedge-shaped supercar. Debuting in 1988, this variant was built to celebrate the marque’s quarter-century milestone. It featured significant design updates penned by none other than Horacio Pagani, who was then working at Lamborghini. These revisions included revised cooling intakes, subtle body modifications, and the inclusion of carbon and Kevlar panels. This particular European-market example is one of approximately 658 built, showcasing the ultimate blend of the Countach’s raw aggression and late-model usability.
Design Revisions by Pagani
While the original Marcello Gandini shape remained, Pagani subtly yet effectively updated the aesthetic. The 25th Anniversary edition is instantly recognizable by its unique body panels. It introduced gradually inclined air intakes with longitudinal fins and revised front fascia and sill treatments. These changes improved cooling efficiency and aerodynamic stability compared to earlier models. The famous scissor doors and tubular steel space frame carry over. Finished in deep Rosso Siviglia, this specific car combines dramatic Italian styling with European-specification bumpers.
The Heart: Downdraft 5.2-Liter V12
Powering this ultimate Countach is the Bizzarrini-designed 5.2-liter V12 engine. This quad-cam unit features a 60-degree cylinder bank angle and four valves per cylinder. Critically, it uses six individual Weber 44 DCNF downdraft carburetors. The downdraft setup allows for better fuel mixture delivery and stronger performance than the side-draft systems used on the earlier 5000 QV models. The engine’s induction sound is visceral, a defining characteristic of this Lamborghini era. Revised body intakes allowed the radiators to be mounted vertically, significantly improving the V12’s cooling.
Engine Specifications and Drivetrain
The 5.2-liter V12, in this configuration, delivered substantial power and characteristic Lamborghini performance. Output was factory rated at 448 horsepower at 7,000 revolutions per minute. It also produced 369 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 revolutions per minute. Power is routed through a five-speed manual transmission, featuring the iconic dogleg-pattern gated shifter. This transmission is located in the middle of the car, ahead of the engine, optimizing weight distribution. A limited-slip differential helps manage the V12’s extensive power when accelerating hard.
Mechanical Investment and Reliability
This European-spec 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary has received serious mechanical attention in recent years. More than $60,000 of work was invested since 2023, focusing on key systems. The carburetors were rebuilt, and essential components like the clutch disc, engine mounts, and transmission mounts were replaced in 2024. Furthermore, the cooling system was serviced with replacement coolant hoses and a repaired starter motor. This extensive maintenance ensures the high-strung V12 and complex systems operate as intended, ready for road enjoyment.
Cabin Appointments and Features
The cockpit features manually adjustable sport bucket seats trimmed in Panna leather with striking red piping. Color-coordinated leather extends across the dash, console, and door panels, contrasting with the red carpets. Creature comforts include electronic climate control, with the AC compressor recently replaced in 2024. A modern Blaupunkt Bremen SQR 46 DAB stereo is installed. The driver faces a leather-wrapped steering wheel and Jaeger instrumentation, which includes a 320 km/h speedometer. The low mileage of 12,000 kilometers, approximately 7,000 miles, reflects its status as a collector’s item.
Chassis and Wheel Details
The Countach rides on a fully independent suspension system, utilizing coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers at all four corners. Stopping power is provided by four-wheel ventilated disc brakes, which saw caliper repairs and rotor machining in 2023. The car sits on staggered 15-inch OZ Racing multi-piece alloy wheels, featuring distinctive red centers. These are fitted with wide Pirelli Asimmetrico tires, measuring 345/35 out back. The wide rubber patch is necessary to effectively transmit the massive V12 power to the road surface. This setup guarantees its legendary, dramatic presence.
The Collector’s Ultimate Countach
The 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary remains the ultimate expression of the car that defined the poster car generation. Its combination of Pagani’s aero updates, the highly sought-after downdraft Weber V12, and the iconic gated manual shifter make it exceptionally desirable. This Rosso Siviglia example, with its documented history and extensive mechanical service, is a fantastic representation of one of the rarest variants. It captures the raw, unfiltered essence of the Italian supercar era better than almost any other model, making it a true collector’s prize.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
