1975 Lamborghini Countach LP400 ‘Periscopio’

Chassis: 1120048
Engine: 1120048
French registration document
• 24th model produced
• Delivered new to Thépenier, Lamborghini importer in France
• Second owner: owned by the same enthusiast since 1987
• Matching numbers (chassis and engine)
• Presented in its original configuration: Giallo Fly with Tabacco leather interior
At the 1971 Geneva Motor Show, the press discovered an unreal car that seemed straight out of a child's dream. With its bold lines and radical design, the Lamborghini Countach — still a prototype under the name LP500 — immediately set a new stylistic standard, relegating the competition to the background.
A year later, in 1972, Lamborghini unveiled the final version in Geneva: the Countach LP400. The name ‘LP’ (Longitudinale Posteriore) refers to the position of the engine, while ‘400’ indicates its 4-litre displacement. This V12 engine, powered by six twin-barrel Weber carburettors, developed 375 horsepower and propelled the Countach to iconic status.
The LP400 quickly acquired the nickname ‘Periscopio’ due to the distinctive cut-out in its roof. This detail, inherited from the LP500 prototype, had been designed to incorporate a periscope serving as an interior rear-view mirror.
Although the device was abandoned, the shape of the roof was retained and became a visual signature.
Series production began in earnest in 1974, at a very limited pace: only 23 units were produced in the first year.
The example shown here, chassis no. 1120048, was the 24th built and also the first to be assembled in 1975. Notably, this Countach was chosen by the factory to illustrate the cover of the model's owner's manual before being delivered to France.
According to the International Lamborghini Registry, the car was delivered to Thépenier, the brand's official representative in France, on 24 January 1975. It was then sold to an industrialist in Lyon, who registered it under number 4300 GH 69. At that time, it took part in an iconic photo shoot by the famous Helmut Newton.
After 40,000 kilometres in the hands of its first owner, it was sold in April 1987 to its current owner, an enthusiast who has maintained it with great care for almost forty years. The bodywork was restored in the mid-2000s. More recently, the exhaust and rear tyres were replaced.
It is now exceptional to come across a Countach Periscopio with such a clear history. French in origin, never modified, with only two owners since leaving the factory, this car is being offered for the first time on the market in a remarkable configuration.