The extraordinary Lamborghini Countach has set a new record at auction, showcasing its timeless allure since its debut in the late 1970s. Variants of this iconic car were in production until 1990, with the original LP400 model commanding a high value in today’s market. Conversely, subsequent iterations like the LP400 S, LP500 S, Quattrovalvole, and 25th Anniversary edition have traditionally sold below the million-dollar threshold. However, this trend was revolutionized by the recent sale of a white-on-white 1989 Countach 25th Anniversary model.
This specific Countach, bearing chassis number ZA9CA05A0KLA12722, boasts a unique significance. Despite the relatively high production numbers of the Countach Quattrovalvole and 25th Anniversary editions – over 600 units in total – this particular 25th Anniversary variant stands out as a cinematic gem. Remarkably, it is one of only two white Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary models featured in the 2013 Martin Scorsese film, The Wolf of Wall Street. Among the 12 units crafted to US specifications, this model is finished in Bianco Polo with a Bianco leather interior, emphasizing its exclusivity in the market. Notably, the white hue is solid and lacks any pearlescent effects.
I believe you might have caught wind of the recent Dubai auction where another Countach was offered – a vehicle damaged in a crash and still in its movie-wrecked state, initially valued at $1,500,000. Despite a bidding war that peaked at $1,350,000, the car remained unsold. In contrast, the pristine Countach used for moving shots and close-ups in The Wolf of Wall Street entered the market with an estimated worth ranging from $1,500,000 to $2,000,000, presented by the esteemed RM Sotheby’s for their New York event on December 8. Enthusiasts eagerly awaited the outcome of this auction, anticipating whether this exceptional piece would find a new owner.
Upon scrutinizing images of chassis KLA12722, striking similarities to chassis KLA12692 pre-crash are apparent, with the distinct difference being the customized two-tone white and black steering wheel cover on KLA12722, a modification by the previous owner. During the film production, minor alterations to the car included a smaller Euro-style front bumper and the absence of a rear wing, with temporary adjustments made to the rear deck lid. However, diligent restoration efforts restored chassis KLA12722 to its original 1989 factory specifications, replicating the vehicle featured in The Wolf of Wall Street. Imagining both the flawless and movie-wrecked versions side by side evokes a captivating visual contrast.
Ultimately, the crashed Countach failed to sell at $1,350,000, while the pristine model skyrocketed to a sale price of $1,655,000, setting a new benchmark for 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary units. With approximately 675 units produced in the late Eighties, the average selling price earlier this year hovered around $500,000. Thus, the cinematic star Countach, driven by Leonardo di Caprio in The Wolf of Wall Street, achieved a selling price triple the previous average, solidifying its status as a coveted collector’s item.
Image Source: lev radin @ShutterStock
