The 1989 Lamborghini Countach is the final iteration of the iconic supercar that defined an era. Produced from 1974 to 1990, the Countach is a two-door, wedge-shaped coupe. The 1989 model year falls within the LP5000 QV (Quattrovalvole) and the Anniversary models. Its popularity stems from its outrageous, futuristic styling, scissor doors, and its status as a poster car for a generation, representing raw performance and aspirational excess. Pricing at the time was exceptionally high, placing it in the realm of the ultra-wealthy.
The Good
The 1989 Countach offers unparalleled head-turning design and exhilarating V12 performance for emotional appeal. Practically, its robust, albeit complex, engineering offers a unique ownership experience, though its value lies more in its exclusivity and heritage than in traditional practical metrics.
The Bad
Known weaknesses include notoriously poor visibility, a cramped cockpit, a heavy clutch, and a thirsty engine. Maintenance can be extremely expensive and requires specialized knowledge. Build quality, while improved over earlier models, can still present issues.
1989 Lamborghini Countach: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1989 Countach primarily featured a 5.2-liter V12 engine.
- Horsepower: The LP5000 QV typically produced around 455 horsepower, while the Anniversary model, also utilizing a 5.2L V12, offered approximately 455 horsepower as well. Some sources cite slightly higher figures for certain specific tunes.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is exceptionally poor, with EPA estimates rarely exceeding 10-12 miles per gallon combined, and often much lower in real-world driving.
- 0-60 Times: Official 0-60 mph times are typically in the range of 4.5 to 5.5 seconds, depending on the specific variant and conditions.
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable. The Countach is a pure sports car and is not designed for towing.
- Trim-Level Features (1989 models typically fall into LP5000 QV or Anniversary trims):
- LP5000 QV (Quattrovalvole): Featured a 5.2L V12 engine with four valves per cylinder, often came with a rear spoiler, updated aerodynamics, and a more refined interior compared to earlier Countachs.
- Anniversary Model: Celebrated Lamborghini's 25th anniversary. It featured revised bodywork with more aggressive styling, including larger air intakes, side skirts, and often a distinctive rear bumper. Interior updates included improved ergonomics and richer materials. Both trims typically included power windows, air conditioning (though often not very effective), leather interior, and a basic sound system. Limited driver aids were present, emphasizing raw driving experience over technology.
1989 Lamborghini Countach Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1989 |
| Make | Lamborghini |
| Model | Countach |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Coupe |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Italy |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.2L V12 DOHC 48V |
| Engine Size | 5.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1989 Lamborghini Countach Have?
The 1989 Lamborghini Countach, while representing a more mature iteration of the model, still presents potential long-term reliability concerns typical of exotic cars of its era. Recalls are rare for such low-volume, older vehicles, but it's crucial to check any specific vehicle's history. Frequently reported issues often revolve around the complex V12 engine and its associated systems. The carbureted or early fuel-injected V12 engines, especially in earlier models, could be prone to tuning issues and require meticulous maintenance. Clutch wear is also a common concern given the car's performance capabilities and often demanding usage. The cooling system can be stressed, especially in warmer climates or under heavy use, leading to overheating if not properly maintained. Electrical gremlins are not uncommon in vehicles of this age, with wiring harnesses and components showing their age. The scissor doors, while iconic, can develop issues with their hinges and actuators over time. Suspension components and the steering system also require regular attention. For the 1989 model year, specifically the LP5000 QV and Anniversary editions, efforts were made to improve reliability over earlier iterations, such as the introduction of four-valve heads and more robust engine management. However, these are still high-performance machines requiring significant investment in specialized maintenance. The lack of modern driver aids means that many of the car's mechanical systems are more exposed and potentially prone to wear. Long-term durability is heavily dependent on the owner's commitment to rigorous and consistent maintenance by qualified specialists.
How long will the 1989 Lamborghini Countach last?
Estimating average mileage for a 1989 Lamborghini Countach is challenging, as these are often collector cars driven sparingly. Many examples have significantly low mileage, often under 20,000 miles, indicating they are preserved rather than driven daily. For those driven more regularly, longevity is directly tied to an exceptional maintenance regimen. The V12 engine itself is robust but demands constant attention. Weaknesses over time often manifest as age-related issues: rubber components degrading, electrical systems faltering, and the need for frequent rebuilds of ancillary systems. Properly maintained, a Countach can remain mechanically sound for decades, but this requires substantial financial commitment and access to expert technicians. Its long-term durability is more about meticulous care and restoration than inherent resistance to wear and tear.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1989 Lamborghini Countach is a product of its time, and as such, its technology, entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features are extremely rudimentary by modern standards. Built-in Tech: The focus was squarely on mechanical performance. Expect basic instrumentation like a speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and temperature gauge. There are no advanced digital displays or onboard computers. Entertainment: The entertainment system is typically a basic analog radio, perhaps with a cassette player. Sound quality is unlikely to be a highlight, as the primary auditory experience is the roaring V12 engine. Driver-Assistance: There are virtually no driver-assistance features. ABS was not standard, and electronic stability control was decades away. Drivers are expected to have full control and responsibility. Power steering is present, and power windows are a common convenience feature. Safety Features: Safety features are minimal. Seatbelts are present, but airbags were not a standard offering on this model. The car's construction offers a degree of passive safety due to its robust chassis and body, but it lacks the active safety systems that protect occupants today. There are no official crash-test ratings available for the 1989 Countach, as standardized crash testing as we know it today was not performed on such low-volume exotic sports cars during that period. Optional features would have been limited to things like a more advanced stereo system or perhaps a rear spoiler if not standard on a particular trim. The overall philosophy was to deliver an unadulterated driving experience, prioritizing raw power and design over modern technological amenities or safety nets.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1989 Lamborghini Countach Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1989 Lamborghini Countach was astronomically expensive, costing well over $100,000 (equivalent to over $250,000 today), placing it among the most exclusive and costly vehicles available. The used market prices for a 1989 Countach have seen significant appreciation. Depending on condition, mileage, and provenance, these cars can fetch anywhere from $300,000 to over $700,000, with pristine examples commanding even higher figures. Depreciation is largely a non-factor for these sought-after classics; instead, they have become appreciating assets. Factors affecting resale value include originality, maintenance history, rarity of specific trims or colors, and any significant historical provenance. Well-documented cars with extensive service records tend to command the highest prices.
1989 Lamborghini Countach Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1989 Lamborghini Countach is undeniably costly. Insurance: Expect specialized collector car insurance, which is expensive due to the car's value and rarity. Fuel: The V12 engine is a gas guzzler, with fuel economy in the single digits under normal driving. Maintenance & Repair: This is where costs truly escalate. Regular maintenance requires specialized technicians familiar with vintage Lamborghinis, and parts can be scarce and very expensive. Routine services can run into the thousands, and major repairs can easily reach tens of thousands of dollars. The Countach is emphatically not an economical vehicle to own; it is a high-maintenance exotic requiring a substantial ongoing budget.
1989 Lamborghini Countach Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
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1989 Lamborghini Countach Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1989 Lamborghini Countach Insurance
Insurance for a 1989 Lamborghini Countach is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Coupe with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1989 Lamborghini Countach Compare to Other Coupe?
When the 1989 Lamborghini Countach was new, its primary rivals were other exotic supercars of the era. In terms of performance, it was among the fastest, with its V12 engine delivering blistering acceleration. However, rivals like the Ferrari F40 offered even more raw, track-focused performance, while the Porsche 911 Turbo (930/964) provided potent all-wheel-drive grip and brutal acceleration. In terms of features, the Countach was relatively spartan compared to more modern or even some contemporary rivals. Comfort and technology were secondary to its dramatic design and performance. The F40 was even more stripped down, emphasizing pure driving. The 911 Turbo offered a slightly more usable interior. Reliability is a common weak point across many exotics of this period. While the Countach saw improvements over earlier models, it still required meticulous maintenance. The F40 was notoriously temperamental, and while the 911 Turbo was generally more robust, it was still a complex performance car. Price was stratospheric for all these vehicles when new, reflecting their exotic nature and limited production. Today, the Countach has seen exceptional value appreciation, often surpassing the F40 and 911 Turbo in market value due to its iconic status and unique styling. Alternatives to consider, depending on priorities, would include the Ferrari Testarossa for its flat-12 sound and classic styling, though it shares some of the Countach's maintenance headaches. For a more reliable and usable, though less flamboyant, exotic experience from the late 80s/early 90s, a Porsche 911 Turbo (964 generation) could be considered. However, for pure, unadulterated 80s supercar drama and investment potential, the Countach remains in a class of its own.
Final Verdict: Is the 1989 Lamborghini Countach a Good Coupe?
The 1989 Lamborghini Countach is ideal for the passionate automotive collector or enthusiast who prioritizes iconic design, a thrilling V12 driving experience, and significant investment potential over everyday practicality or low running costs. It is unequivocally not a car for the budget-conscious buyer. If you're considering buying one, it's essential to do so as a used vehicle, as new examples are unobtainable. Focus on well-maintained examples, preferably Anniversary or LP5000 QV trims, with documented service history from reputable specialists. It is worth buying if you have the substantial financial resources for both acquisition and ongoing, expensive maintenance, and if your goal is to own a legendary piece of automotive history that appreciates in value rather than a daily driver.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma