Shadow Myth- In the golden era of automotive design, when bold lines met bold ambitions, one car managed to capture the spirit of innovation and exclusivity like no other: the Lamborghini Countach LP400 'Periscopio'. While the 1970s birthed many iconic vehicles, few have left a legacy as distinct, untouched, and mysterious as this stealthy black beauty with a tale that stretches across continents and decades. It’s more than just a car—it’s a time capsule, frozen in the dreams of engineers, collectors, and enthusiasts alike.
The Countach LP400 'Periscopio' wasn’t just another model on Lamborghini’s lineup—it was a revolution in form and function. The variant name “Periscopio” came from its unique rear-view periscope-style roof channel, a design choice that both enhanced visibility and added flair. According to Lamborghini’s records, chassis number 1120182 was initially destined for Lebanon, ordered in an elegant black exterior paired with a black interior. This configuration alone made it stand out, as it became the only fully finished example of its type among just 150 LP400s ever built. However, due to the outbreak of civil war in Lebanon, the order faced delays. It wasn’t until May 14, 1976, that the car was finally completed.
Front three-quarter of 1976 Lamborghini Countach LP400 'Periscopio'. (Picture from: Motorious)
Following its completion, Lamborghini used the freshly built LP400 for driving tests, capturing it in stunning promotional photography that highlighted its daring design. By autumn of the same year, the car was shipped to Japan, where it was slightly modified to comply with local regulations—most notably gaining a side rearview mirror and a larger front turn signal. It stayed in the care of the Lamborghini Agent in Nagoya until December 12, 1977, when it found its first private owner.
Interior of 1976 Lamborghini Countach LP400 'Periscopio'. (Picture from: Motorious)
That owner was none other than Mitsuo Sanami, a well-known Japanese celebrity and elite car enthusiast who once represented Japan as a trap shooter at the 1964 Olympics. Despite owning such a rare automotive masterpiece, Sanami never registered it for road use. For five years, the LP400 remained undriven and tucked away—an untouched gem in his collection.
In 1982, the Countach changed hands again, this time acquired by Isao Noritake, Japan’s most celebrated Lamborghini collector and founder of the Japan Lamborghini Owner’s Club. Like Sanami, Noritake preserved the car as a piece of art rather than a mode of transport. He housed it in his private museum, where it remained off the roads and untouched by the elements. Eventually, he sold the car to his friend, Yoshiaki Okada, another passionate collector, who continued the trend of ownership without ever putting the car on the street.
The engine view of 1976 Lamborghini Countach LP400 'Periscopio'. (Picture from: Motorious)
After several years, Noritake reacquired the vehicle in 1990. By then, the Countach had sat idle for so long that it required professional attention. He sent it back to the Lamborghini factory in Italy for a full overhaul. There, the Countach received comprehensive servicing, and its interior was painstakingly repainted and refurbished. The restoration took two years and cost a staggering $160,000. Once complete, the car returned to Noritake’s collection—but once again, it was never driven. The odometer reads only 540 kilometers to this day, believed to have been logged entirely during Lamborghini’s internal testing between 1990 and 1992.
The Countach’s journey continued into the 21st century when in 2015, it was acquired by Symbolic International in San Diego, California. That same year, it was purchased by American collector Peter Dyson. But by 2018, the car made its way back to Symbolic International, reaffirming its place among top-tier collectible vehicles.
By October 2019, after decades of being admired from afar, the black Lamborghini Countach LP400 ‘Periscopio’ once again stepped into the spotlight. Symbolic International put it up for sale, though the asking price remained undisclosed. Following its brief reappearance, the car quietly changed hands once more—its trail vanishing into the world of elite private collections. While its final destination and value were never made public, what’s certain is this: it remains one of the most elusive and immaculately preserved examples of its kind. This Countach doesn't need the open road to make its presence felt—its legend was forged long ago, and it continues to echo among those who know where to look.*** [EKA [18112019]| FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTORIOUS | JUST CAR GUY ]
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The Countach LP400 'Periscopio' wasn’t just another model on Lamborghini’s lineup—it was a revolution in form and function. The variant name “Periscopio” came from its unique rear-view periscope-style roof channel, a design choice that both enhanced visibility and added flair. According to Lamborghini’s records, chassis number 1120182 was initially destined for Lebanon, ordered in an elegant black exterior paired with a black interior. This configuration alone made it stand out, as it became the only fully finished example of its type among just 150 LP400s ever built. However, due to the outbreak of civil war in Lebanon, the order faced delays. It wasn’t until May 14, 1976, that the car was finally completed.
By October 2019, after decades of being admired from afar, the black Lamborghini Countach LP400 ‘Periscopio’ once again stepped into the spotlight. Symbolic International put it up for sale, though the asking price remained undisclosed. Following its brief reappearance, the car quietly changed hands once more—its trail vanishing into the world of elite private collections. While its final destination and value were never made public, what’s certain is this: it remains one of the most elusive and immaculately preserved examples of its kind. This Countach doesn't need the open road to make its presence felt—its legend was forged long ago, and it continues to echo among those who know where to look.*** [EKA [18112019]| FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTORIOUS | JUST CAR GUY ]
