The 1983 Lamborghini Countach 5000 S represents the zenith of the poster-car era, delivering a visceral combination of Gandini’s wedge design and a significantly enlarged five-litre V12. This specific chassis, number DLA12559, holds a singular position in automotive history as the only 5000 S originally finished in the breathtaking Oro Sahara paintwork. Introduced as the second major update to the Countach line, the 5000 S brought a more menacing presence to the road through wider fender flares and 8.5-inch wide Ozzeta Electron wheels. As a European-specification example, this car utilizes a raw mechanical setup that prioritizes performance, making it one of the most desirable iterations of the wedge-shaped legend.
Oro Sahara Brilliance and Bertone Sculpted Aerodynamics
The visual character of this 1983 Lamborghini Countach 5000 S is defined by its ultra-rare Oro Sahara finish, a color that perfectly accentuates the sharp, intersecting planes of the Bertone-designed body. Unlike the more common red or white examples, this gold hue highlights the architectural complexity of the widened fender flares and the aggressive silhouette. Following a comprehensive restoration completed in 2022 by Caiarti of Milan, the car has been returned to its exact factory specification. The work was meticulously overseen by Lamborghini Polo Storico to ensure every detail, from the glass to the trim, honors its 1983 production standards. It remains a flawless representation of Lamborghini’s boldest design era.
Champagne Leather Luxury and Analog Driver Ergonomics
Inside the cockpit, the 1983 Lamborghini Countach 5000 S features a Champagne leather interior that provides a sophisticated contrast to the metallic gold exterior. The cabin materials were refreshed during the restoration to meet concours standards, maintaining the authentic smell and feel of high-grade Italian hide. True to the Countach legacy, the interior remains a driver-focused environment with a low-slung seating position and a gated manual shifter that requires deliberate, physical interaction. Every gauge and switch has been preserved or restored to functional perfection, ensuring that the environment inside remains as impactful as the radical exterior design that defined a generation of enthusiasts.
Weber Carbureted V12 Power and European Spec Engagement
Performance is delivered by a 4.8-liter V12 engine that provides a narrative of mechanical purity and high-revving theater. While American variants were forced to utilize fuel injection, this European-spec car is topped with six Weber carburetors, allowing the engine to breathe more freely and produce significantly more power than its US counterparts. This setup produces a visceral soundtrack and instantaneous throttle response that modern turbocharged engines cannot replicate. Power is delivered through a five-speed manual transmission, offering a tactile experience that demands skill and attention from the driver. Recent maintenance in April 2026, including a full fluid change and inspection, ensures the V12 remains in peak operational condition.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.8L V-12 |
| Induction | 6 Weber Carburetors (EU-Spec) |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Exterior Color | Oro Sahara (Unique 1 of 1 for 5000 S) |
| Production | 1 of 321 Units Built |
| Restoration | Polo Storico Certified Guidance |
Unrivaled Rarity and the Value of Factory Certification
The market for the 1983 Lamborghini Countach 5000 S has reached new heights, with collectors specifically seeking out cars with verified provenance and unique factory colors. This Oro Sahara example benchmarks favorably against standard 5000 S and QV models, offering a unique selling point that cannot be replicated by any other chassis. Its primary rivals, such as the Ferrari BB 512i, offer a different flavor of Italian performance, but the Countach’s theatricality remains unmatched. With an estimate between €850,000 and €950,000, its value is bolstered by its long-term single ownership of over 20 years and the direct oversight of the restoration by Lamborghini Polo Storico.
A Singular Masterpiece of Lamborghini Heritage
This 1983 Lamborghini Countach 5000 S is more than just a classic supercar; it is a piece of historical art that represents the peak of analog Lamborghini production. From its one-of-one Oro Sahara paint to its factory-backed restoration, every element of this car has been curated to preserve its status as a premier collector’s item. It offers a rare opportunity to own the most visually striking and mechanically pure iteration of the 5000 S series. Whether showcased at a prestigious concours or driven on high-speed tours like the Polo Storico 60 Giro, this Countach remains an absolute icon. It stands ready to serve as the crown jewel in any world-class automotive collection, embodying the bold spirit of the Raging Bull.
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Source: rmsothebys.com
