Before it was replaced in 1990, five different evolutions of the Countach were constructed. With each evolution power increased and so did the amount of plastic used for additional flares and body kits. The 5-liter engine finally became available in 1982 and three years later, four-valve heads were introduced, bumping the power to 455 horsepower for the European version from the original 375 of the LP400.

The Countach looks absolutely incredible from any angle. (Photo: Wouter Melissen)

The 28th Countach off the line, chassis 1120056, was built to custom order of Silvera, a personal friend of Ferruccio Lamborghini. The Haitian had previously ordered one of the Miura SV/Js and would later commission another Countach.

To accommodate for all his special requests, this Countach was not finished by Lamborghini but by Bertone, which were better equipped to complete the custom work. Among the unusual features were the silver bumper, antelope suede leather dashboard cover and “periscope” rear-view mirror. The car also received a tweaked engine with a reported 60 or 70 additional horses and an open exhaust system.

Finished in a striking Rosso Dino, the car was completed in January 1975. It was personally picked up by Silvera and his wife Gladys from the factory where Lamborghini himself handed over the keys.

Braving winter conditions, the proud new owner drove his latest acquisition through Europe to Paris. The custom Countach was subsequently flown to New York for the next leg of the journey, in which the Silveras drove down the East Coast to their Miami home. From there it was shipped to Haiti where it was often seen in front of Silvera's lavish El Rancho hotel.

Little over a year later, Silvera sold 1120056 to the American consul in Haiti. In the following years, the unique Countach passed through several hands including those of American journalist and photographer Winston Goodfellow. By the time the current Dutch owner acquired the car, some of its original features, such as the silver bumper, had been lost.

Eager to uncover the complete story of the ex-Albert Silvera Countach, he dove deep into the car's history and managed to speak to most of the previous owners, including Gladys Silvera. He has since returned the car to its original configuration, while carefully retaining its highly original condition.

The result of this labor of love was first seen at the 2012 Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este in Italy, where the striking Countach was fittingly displayed alongside a Miura SV/J. Although 40 years old, the Countach still looks futuristic and was accordingly awarded the Trofeo Auto & Design by the jury for the most exciting design. It also received a Mention of Honor in its class.

For a gallery of photos, see Lamborghini Countach.

Read more stories like this at: The Ultimate Car Page.