A rare 1977 Lamborghini Countach LP400 Periscopio, previously owned by legendary British musician Sir Rod Stewart, is poised to capture attention at an upcoming auction. This particular Countach is one of only approximately 150 Periscopio examples produced during the model’s initial four years of production. With a history as vibrant as its performance, this supercar represents a unique blend of celebrity ownership and automotive excellence.
Chassis number 1120262 originally rolled out of the Lamborghini factory in a right-hand-drive configuration, destined for Stewart during his Australian tour. The vehicle later accompanied Stewart to Los Angeles, where it underwent significant modifications, including a wide-body kit and a targa-style roof panel. After its tenure in the US, the car returned to the UK, remaining in Stewart’s private collection until 2002.
The car’s second owner converted it to a left-hand-drive configuration before it was sold again in 2013. The new owner embarked on an extensive refurbishment project, aiming to restore the Countach to its original factory configuration while maintaining the left-hand-drive setup. In 2022, Lamborghini Polo Storico undertook additional restoration work, focusing on the powertrain, brakes, and steering system, as well as restoring the interior to LP400 specifications.
Finished in a striking Rosso exterior over Tobacco leather interior, this Countach is powered by a 3.9-liter quad-cam V12 engine. Equipped with six Weber carburetors and twin-distributor ignition, the engine delivers a factory-rated 370 horsepower at 8,000 RPM and 269 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 RPM. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential.
The Countach’s performance credentials are complemented by its advanced suspension system, featuring four-wheel coil-sprung independent suspension and four-wheel ventilated disc brakes. The car rides on Campagnolo 14” alloy wheels, adding to its iconic look and feel.
Inside, the cabin was re-trimmed in 2022, featuring luxurious Tobacco leather over fixed-back bucket seats, console, sills, and rear bulkhead. Additional interior highlights include beige carpeting, brown brushed suede on the dash, a gated shifter, and air conditioning. The black leather-wrapped steering wheel fronts a suite of Stewart-Warner gauges, including a 320-km/h speedometer and a 9,000 RPM tachometer.
The current owner, who acquired the car in 2023, ensured it received comprehensive service, including fluid changes, spark plug replacement, and the installation of stainless-steel fuel pickup screens and a new ANSA muffler. Invoices detailing the $30,000 worth of work completed in June 2024 are available for review.
This Countach comes with a binder of registration documents and service records dating back to 1990, adding to its rich history and appeal.
Shawn Henry