45 Jahre auf der Überholspur: Der Kult-Lambo aus ‘Cannonball Run’ feiert Jubiläum

The iconic Lamborghini from "Cannonball Run" turns 45

This embellished Countach LP 400 S emerged victorious in the film, cementing its legendary status

There are a handful of movies that instantly resonate with car enthusiasts, earning a cult-like reverence from the get-go. The likes of "Bullitt" starring Steve McQueen spring to mind, as do the initial installments of the "Fast & Furious" saga. And of course, there's the venerable "Cannonball Run," which was unfortunately labeled "Auf dem Highway ist die Hölle los" in Germany. Now, the star of that film – the iconic Lambo Countach LP 400 S – is celebrating its 45th anniversary alongside the two actresses who drove it to glory on the big screen.

The iconic Countach LP 400 S

Launched in November 1979, the Countach LP 400 S marks its 45th anniversary. A heavily modified version of this model featured prominently in a movie, significantly contributing to its popularity. Actresses Adrienne Barbeau and Tara Buckman, who formed the film's sole female duo and piloted the Lambo, reunited for the first time since its release.

Photo Gallery: Celebrating the Lamborghini Countach LP 400 S Anniversary

Initially delivered to S.E.A. Automobili Roma, this black Lamborghini featuring a mustard-colored interior eventually made its way to the United States, settling in Florida. Owned by a friend of a film director, the Lamborghini was given the opportunity to shine on the silver screen. To prepare for its movie debut, the Countach underwent several alterations, giving it a unique and recognizable appearance.

A wing and two headlights at the front, a spoiler, three antennas, and twelve exhaust pipes at the rear, along with two extra, non-functional gauges in front of the passenger seat were added to the vehicle. These modifications were kept even after filming was completed. In Germany, this car would have been a nightmare for vehicle inspectors, but in the States, it seemed to be of no concern.

Cult Classic Celebrates Racing Culture

The movie "The Cannonball Run" draws its inspiration from the real-life Cannonball Baker Sea-To-Shining-Sea Memorial Trophy Dash, a notorious coast-to-coast road race across the United States from New York to Los Angeles, aiming for the fastest time possible. This film boasted a star-studded lineup including Roger Moore, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., and Jackie Chan, along with actresses such as Farrah Fawcett, Adrienne Barbeau, and Tara Buckman. Barbeau and Buckman played the only all-female duo in the race, driving the victorious Countach.

The opening chase sequence of the movie, lasting over three minutes and featuring the roar of the Countach's V12 carburetor engine complementing the soundtrack, stands out as one of the film's most memorable moments. Equally iconic is the moment when the Countach pulls over, the passenger exits and marks an X on a road sign with spray paint. These moments have reached legendary status among car enthusiasts, becoming ingrained in American culture to the extent that the Countach is one of the select few cars cataloged in the Library of Congress.

An increase in movie vehicles:

Source: Lamborghini

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