Lamborghini Countach Prototype: Complete (#5 for 2021)

The intent here was to reproduce the prototype for this iconic supercar, which was clean and sleek but which (I assume) tended to overheat due to insufficient ducts, scoops and slots cut into the bodywork. Sadly the purity of the original shape was subjected to many more such aero mods, including fender arches, aero sills and honking big wings.

The prototype had very simple rear lenses, a lack of openings in the flanks, and a periscope-style rear view mirror cut into the roof. In front the bumper was a thin sheet painted body colour. Window frames were chromed.

 

 

The prototype was painted a yellowish orange, according to period photos on the Interweb. This Krylon Bauhaus Gold will have to do, as the photos are all quite different. Having been driven hard and modified extensively, it was then driven into the crash barrier to illustrate conformity with the regulations, and so doesn't exist today. 

 

 

Drivetrain was radical in that the 4-litre V12 engine was longitudinal, with the gearbox extending into the cockpit, and a driveshaft running back through the sump to the final drive. The Interweb mentions the 5 litre motor which promptly blew up during a high-speed run; so the initial production run stuck with the tried and true 4-litre.

This Fujimi Enthusiast kit is particularly fiddly, and the build is not one of my best as I got increasingly frustrated as the build went on. Nonetheless it will sit well next to its stable mate at Bertone, the equally outrageous and wedgy Stratos. 

So next I need to get some confidence back, perhaps by building something quick and easy; then onto new heights! Stay tuned.