The 1971 Lamborghini Espada Series II remains one of the most daring designs ever to leave the Sant’Agata Bolognese factory. As a genuine four-seater grand tourer, it offered a level of practicality that was unheard of for a V12 supercar in its era. This specific example, finished in the elegant shade of Argento, represents one of only 575 Series II cars produced between 1970 and 1972. It carries a rich history, having spent over four decades with a single owner in Northern California before moving to its current home. Collectors value the Series II for its improved dashboard layout and the introduction of ventilated disc brakes. It is a striking testament to Marcello Gandini’s vision of high-speed luxury for four adults.
Gandini Design and Argento Steel Bodywork
The bodywork of this 1971 Lamborghini Espada Series II is a masterclass in aerodynamic styling and sharp, angular lines. Its aluminum hood features the signature dual NACA ducts that draw air into the massive engine bay. Louvered roof vents and a fixed glass tail panel give the car a futuristic silhouette that still turns heads today. Lucas fog lights and a wire-mesh grille complete the aggressive front fascia, while an ANSA quad-outlet exhaust provides the necessary visual drama. Despite minor paintwork on a front fender from a previous owner, the car retains its classic Italian luster. Every louver and vent serves a functional purpose, keeping the massive V12 and cabin cool at triple-digit speeds.
Refurbished Magnesium Wheels and Koni Suspension
Handling for this substantial grand tourer is managed by a sophisticated double wishbone suspension with front and rear anti-roll bars. This 1971 Lamborghini Espada Series II rides on Koni dampers that provide a perfect balance between sport and comfort. The iconic 15-inch Campagnolo cast magnesium center-lock wheels were recently refurbished to a factory-fresh finish. They are mounted with Michelin tires, ensuring the car maintains its original handling characteristics and stance. Vacuum-assisted Girling ventilated disc brakes provide the necessary stopping power for a car with such immense performance potential. Power steering makes navigating urban environments much easier than in earlier versions. This mechanical setup allows for effortless high-speed cruising across continents.
Black Leather Cockpit and Period-Correct Tech
The interior of the 1971 Lamborghini Espada Series II is a luxurious 2+2 environment designed for long-distance travel. Re-trimmed in black leather in 1998, the individual seats remain in excellent condition, accented by rich woodgrain dashboard inserts. Modern drivers will appreciate the air conditioning system, which has been updated to use modern R134a refrigerant. A Voxson eight-track player and power windows reflect the premium status this car held when it was new. Jaeger instrumentation provides the driver with vital data via a 190-mph speedometer and a 10k-rpm tachometer. While the radio and clock currently require attention, the overall ambiance of the cabin is one of Italian elegance. It is a space that invites both the driver and passengers to enjoy the V12 symphony.
Recent Mechanical Service and Award History
Maintaining a vintage Italian V12 requires significant investment, and this Espada has received over $36k CAD in recent mechanical attention. Work performed in 2023 and 2024 included rebuilding the six Weber carburetors and flushing the entire fuel system. The cam seals were replaced and the valve covers were powder-coated to ensure the engine bay looks as good as it performs. This car has been a frequent winner at various events, including multiple First Place awards at the Palo Alto Concours. It even carries the signature of legendary test driver Valentino Balboni in the engine bay. These accolades confirm the car’s status as a top-tier example of the Series II production run.
Engine Performance and V12 Specifications
The heart of this 1971 Lamborghini Espada Series II is its 3.9-liter quad-cam V12 engine. This powerplant features six Weber 40 DCOE carburetors and was factory rated at 350 horsepower with 290 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a five-speed manual transmission that allows the driver to fully exploit the engine’s broad power band. Recent service involved rebuilding the oil pump and installing a modern MSD ignition system for improved reliability. An ANSA exhaust system with stainless-steel pipes ensures the V12 produces a thunderous, high-pitched soundtrack. This mechanical combination provides a visceral driving experience that modern grand tourers often struggle to match. It remains a pinnacle of naturally aspirated engineering.
Summary of the Series II Espada
The 1971 Lamborghini Espada Series II is a rare bird that successfully combines extreme styling with genuine touring capability. This Argento example offers a highly documented history and significant recent mechanical investment, making it a turn-key collector piece. With its Lamborghini Polo Storico certificate and a collection of prestigious awards, its pedigree is beyond reproach. It represents a golden era of Italian manufacturing where design and performance were pushed to their absolute limits. As it is offered by the selling dealer in Canada, it stands ready for its next international adventure. For the enthusiast seeking a V12 with room for friends, this Espada is a definitive choice. It is truly a legend of the road.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
