One to Buy: ex-Brunei Royal Family 1988 Lamborghini Countach Quattrovalvole
A few months after Chrysler took control of Automobili Lamborghini from the Mimram Group, a subtly updated version of the formidable Countach Quattrovalvole was released.
The most obvious new detail was the addition of ventilated side skirts down each flank which perfectly reflected taste of the era. Elsewhere, Lamborghini added central locking, better cockpit ventilation, an improved heater, ZF as opposed to Porsche synchromesh and reconfigured brake geometry to improve initial bite.
Production of this revised Quattrovalvole lasted less than than a year as, in September 1988, Lamborghini unveiled the last-of-line Countach 25th Anniversary which was itself brought in as a stop-gap until the all-new Diablo was ready.
Only 17 side skirted Countach Quattrovalvoles were produced in right-hand drive, a particularly interesting example of which is currently on offer at the Joe Macari showroom in London.
Configured in Blu Acapulco with Blu leather, the optional rear spoiler and gold tail fascia badging, chassis JLA12420 was dispatched on August 3rd 1988 and supplied via Portman Lamborghini in London to Transcar UK who were acting as an agent for the Brunei Royal Family. However, it seems likely the car never made it to Brunei; in 2000 it was purchased out of an Italian warehouse owned by Pininfarina who managed various special projects for the Brunei Royals.
Today, this superbly presented Quattrovalvole, the last right-hand drive example produced, has covered a little over 9000km from new.
Reprinted below is Joe Macari’s description:
Specifications
Mileage: 9,075 Kilometres
Year: 1988
Steering Position: RHD
Summary
Late production, ‘88.5’ 5000 QV finished in Blu Acapulco over Blue leather.
One of just 17 built in RHD for the U.K.
Description
The Lamborghini Countach is one of the most iconic supercars ever created, redefining automotive design with its radical wedge shape, scissor doors, and aggressive stance. Introduced in 1974 as the successor to the Miura, the Countach became a symbol of excess and performance throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Over its 16-year production run, Lamborghini continuously refined the model, enhancing its power, aerodynamics, and handling to keep pace with the evolving supercar landscape.
The Countach 5000 Quattrovalvole (QV), introduced in 1985, represented one of the most significant updates in the model’s history. Its most notable upgrade was the adoption of a four-valve-per-cylinder ("Quattrovalvole") version of the legendary 5.2-liter V12 engine, producing up to 455 horsepower. This allowed for a top speed exceeding 185 mph and even more aggressive acceleration. The engine modifications required a raised engine cover with a distinctive bulge to accommodate the taller intake system.
Beyond its mechanical advancements, the 5000 QV retained the iconic wedge shape but featured subtle refinements, such as enlarged rear wheel arches to accommodate wider tires and an optional rear wing for improved high-speed stability. A total of 610 units were built between 1985 and 1988, making it a relatively rare version of the Countach. As one of the last iterations before the final 25th Anniversary model, the 5000 QV remains a highly desirable and historically significant Lamborghini, embodying the raw, unfiltered nature of 1980s supercars.
Built in 1988, this 5000 QV is one of just 17 ‘88.5’ right-hand drive examples equipped with side skirts and delivered new to the UK through Portman Lamborghini London. It was specified in the striking shade of Blu Acapulco, a dynamic colour that shifts between blue and purple depending on the light. The interior was equally distinctive, upholstered in Panna Con Filetti Blue leather, making this Countach a truly exceptional specification.
It was delivered new in August 1988 to Transcar U.K., who were working as agents for the Royal Collection in Brunei at the time. The car was later acquired by Cars International Associates after being purchased directly from Pininfarina in Italy. At the time, the vehicle had covered just 2,000 miles and was housed in a dedicated facility used for Brunei’s special projects. The car was sold when Brunei ceased funding its exclusive project workshop at Pininfarina, leading to the sale of its contents.
Having remained in the UK ever since, this Countach has been very well maintained and cared for throughout its life. Its low mileage is believed to be original, supported by MOT certificates dating back to the early 2000s. As one of the ultimate iterations of the definitive 1980s supercar, this 5000 QV would make a prized addition to any Lamborghini collection.
