FYI: Spotted in Beverly Hills – An Iconic 1988.5 Lamborghini Countach 5000QV
While strolling through the luxurious streets of Beverly Hills this weekend, I had the surprise of encountering a rare sight: a Lamborghini Countach 5000QV. This iconic vehicle, renowned for its Bianco Polo white paint and pristine white leather interior, is not an everyday spectacle in Los Angeles.
### Lamborghini Countach – A Rare Gem in LA
This Countach, distinct with its US-spec bumpers that many Lamborghini enthusiasts criticize, immediately grabbed attention. Despite the divisive opinions, particularly from British car fans on Twitter, I stand by my admiration for the Countach. Its aesthetics and rarity undeniably give it a distinctive appeal.
### A New Addition to Beverly Hills
The Lamborghini Countach spotted appears to be freshly acquired by its current owner, hence my first-time encounter with it. Miami-based dealership Curated, known for its remarkable collection of neo-classic cars, provided some intriguing details about this particular Countach through an Instagram direct message. True to their reputation, Curated’s inventory always features vehicles with fascinating histories and low mileage. This Countach, boasting just 1,200 miles and original Pirelli P7R tires, is no exception.
### Details About the 1988.5 Countach 5000QV
This model is a 1988.5 Countach 5000QV, one of the final units produced before the release of the 25th Anniversary model. Introduced in 1985, the 5000QV is equipped with a robust 5.2-liter V12 engine and notable engine cover protrusions. US-spec versions possess distinctive features such as a larger front bumper, bulbous taillight surrounds, and additional rear bumpers due to the rigorous crash-test standards at the time.
Only 610 units of the 5000QV were manufactured, with about 50 being the 1988.5 models, and fewer than 24 designated for the US market. This mid-range model features side skirts from the 25th Anniversary edition and includes a more efficient air conditioning system. Remarkably, just 66 of these 5000QVs incorporate Bosch fuel injection.
### Customizing the US-Spec Bumpers
Most owners of US-spec Countachs tend to either remove the front bumper or paint it to blend with the car’s body color, avoiding the stark contrast of the black plastic. While the original bumper certainly has its detractors, I believe it enhances the Countach’s exaggerated design. The wide fenders, body kits, and bold bumpers contribute to its dramatic and eye-catching appearance. Personally, I might consider swapping the front bumper with one featuring wings for added flair, but the rear end cap would remain untouched.
### Driving and Enjoying a Classic
What truly excites me is seeing a masterpiece like this Lamborghini Countach in action. Even if it’s only driven a few miles and parked in a valet lot, the notion that the new owner still enjoys the car, with protective plastic on the seats, is exhilarating. It’s a testament to the timeless allure and usability of classic vehicles.
### Conclusion
In conclusion, the 1988.5 Lamborghini Countach 5000QV is not just an automotive marvel but a cultural icon. Its rare presence, especially in an urban setting like Beverly Hills, is a reminder of the timeless elegance and continuous allure that such classic cars possess. Whether admired for its rarity or cherished for its aesthetic appeal, the Countach remains a standout symbol of luxury and engineering prowess.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
