Lamborghini V12 Expresses Versatility – Legendary Countach and Iconic LM 002

Lamborghini is commemorating its V12, the legendary 12-cylinder engine that has powered the House of Sant'Agata Bolognese's most iconic models for nearly 60 years.

In its final evolution as a "pure" internal combustion engine, it will cease production when the final Aventador Ultimae is produced in late 2022.

In this year of the V12, the narrative of two completely opposite vehicles that share the same amazing 12-cylinder mechanics.

The Countach and LM 002, two completely opposite vehicles that share the same V12 powertrain went down in history as one of the most iconic cars and the first mass-produced ultra-high performance off-road vehicle, respectively.

During the Countach years, the firm identified a demand for a high-performance off-road vehicle with luxurious trimmings. The LM 002 took the mechanics of the Countach engine in the 5.2-liter form, lowered the power by 20HP to be able to utilise less refined gasoline without difficulties, turned 180-degree, and shifted to the longitudinal front position.

A four-wheel drive gearbox with a central differential and low ratios was then fitted. What remained on the Countach was the tubular chassis, which had never been seen on an off-road vehicle and normally reserved for racing vehicles or the most complex sports cars.

Thus, created an incredible vehicle capable of travelling the highway at sports sedan speeds while also conquering exceedingly difficult off-road routes.

LM 002 pioneered the market for sports SUVs and was the spiritual forefather of today's Lamborghini URUS, easily distinguished by the "hump" on the hood. Best defined by an Italian journalist who commented after testing it stating that at 200 km/h, the LM 002 doesn't slice through the air. ‘’It strikes it in the face with pride’’.

The Quattrovalvole version was the first to be officially homologated for and imported to the United States, where, however, its carburetors were replaced by electronic fuel injection. 

First produced in 631 units up to 1988 until it was replaced by the Countach 25 Anniversario, so named to celebrate the 25 years since the founding of Automobili Lamborghini.

On July 4, 1990, the final Countach, Grigio Metallizzato (metallic grey with grey inside), rolled off the manufacturing line and headed straight to the MUDETC, the company museum in Sant'Agata Bolognese. 

The 25 Anniversario was the series with the largest manufacturing numbers, 658 pieces, showcasing the quality of the Countach design, which remained creative after 17 years of production.