The only gold Lamborghini Countach repainted by an owner who hated the color... finally estimated at a record price

In the already exceptional history of Lamborghini Countach, However, there are some examples that go even further than the status of mythical supercar. Such is the case with this particular model: a 1983 Lamborghini Countach 5000 S, the only one of its kind in the world in its original configuration.

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From the workshops of Sant'Agata Bolognese, this Countach boasts a rare shade called Oro Sahara. Lamborghini had initially planned to produce three models in this golden color, but in the end only one would see the light of day: chassis DLA12559. A unique piece, therefore, in a production already limited to just 321 examples for the 5000 S.

Beneath its spectacular exterior lies the raw DNA of the supercars of the '80s: a naturally-aspirated V12, a five-speed manual gearbox, no electronic assistance, and a design by Bertone, instantly recognizable with its aggressive wedge-shaped silhouette.

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A spectacular supercar... but not to the taste of its new owner

Incredible as it may seem, this golden hue was not universally appreciated. After being delivered to Saudi Arabia in 1983, the car changed hands in 1989. Its new owner, a British expatriate working for Saudi Arabian Airlines, simply couldn't stand the color.

His decision was radical: he had the world's only gold Countach repainted... in white. In the process, he also modified its appearance by adding a rear spoiler and matching wheels, profoundly transforming the original aesthetic. A choice that may seem almost sacrilegious today, given the rarity of this configuration in hindsight. The car then left the Middle East for the United Kingdom, before moving on to Belgium in the 90s, where it continued to lead a relatively discreet life.

Renaissance after turbulent years

It wasn't until 2005 that this Countach returned to a path more respectful of its history. An Italian collector acquired it and decided to repatriate it to his native country.

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But fate hasn't said its last word yet: in 2016, the car was damaged in a flood. The owner then launched a complete restoration with a clear objective: to bring the car back to its original configuration. Guided by the Lamborghini Polo Storico department, the restoration was entrusted to a specialist workshop in Milan. After several years' work, the Countach finally regained its Oro Sahara color, its champagne interior and its original specifications. In 2022, it officially reappeared at the Polo Storico 60 Giro, an event celebrating Lamborghini's heritage. A true renaissance for this unique piece.

For sale!

Today, this unique Lambborghini Countach is about to change hands for the first time in over twenty years. Offered for sale by RM Sotheby's, it is estimated at between 850,000 and 950,000 euros. Behind these figures, it is above all its history that fascinates. Unique in its color, transformed by an owner who didn't like it, then carefully restored to its original identity, this Lamborghini alone tells the story of several decades of passion, mistakes... and redemption.

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