Lamborghini Countach LP500 QV

vs

Isdera Imperator 108i

Italy vs West Germany — 1985 vs 1984

Lamborghini Countach LP500 QV (1985)
Isdera Imperator 108i (1984)
Specifications
Countach LP500 QVImperator 108i
Horsepower455 hp326 hp
Torque369 lb-ft339 lb-ft
Engine Size5,167 cc4,973 cc
0-60 mph5.0 sec
Top Speed183 mph174 mph
¼ Mile13.0 sec
Weight3,417 lbs2,976 lbs
Wheelbase2,451 mm2,500 mm
Length4,150 mm4,340 mm
Units Produced61017
Original MSRP$115,000$180,000
Value (Excellent)$1,500,000
Collectibility9/1010/10
Rarity7/1010/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1985 Lamborghini Countach LP500 QV brings more power, higher top speed to the table, and the 1984 Isdera Imperator 108i answers with lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between Italy and West Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1985 Lamborghini Countach LP500 QV versus 1984 Isdera Imperator 108i is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1985 Lamborghini Countach LP500 QV holds a clear advantage in raw power with 455 hp compared to 326 hp, a 129-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lamborghini Countach LP500 QV uses a V12 displacing 5,167 cc, while the Isdera Imperator 108i relies on a V8 DOHC 32V with 4,973 cc. The 1985 Lamborghini Countach LP500 QV claims a higher top speed at 183 mph compared to 174 mph. The Isdera Imperator 108i carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 441 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 17 units built, the 1984 Isdera Imperator 108i is considerably scarcer than the Lamborghini Countach LP500 QV's 610 examples.