The 1973 Lamborghini Espada represents a peak era for the Italian grand tourer, offering a unique blend of 2+2 practicality and high-revving V12 performance. This specific Series III example is one of only 472 units produced, making it a rare survivor from a production run that spanned six years. Originally delivered in Belgium, Chassis 9038 underwent a significant multi-year refurbishment between 2004 and 2006 that included mechanical and cosmetic revitalization. Now offered in Malle, Belgium, this Espada stands as a testament to Marcello Gandini’s visionary design and Lamborghini’s uncompromising engineering.
Visionary Gandini Lines and Refined Champagne Finish
The exterior of this Series III coupe is finished in champagne metallic, a color change performed during its mid-2000s refurbishment from its original red. The steel bodywork and aluminum hood, designed by Marcello Gandini at Bertone, feature iconic dual NACA ducts and a distinctive fixed glass tail panel above the taillights. Additional period details include louvered roof vents, a wire-mesh grille, and a quad-outlet exhaust system that emphasizes the car’s athletic pedigree. It rides on 15-inch Campagnolo cast magnesium five-bolt wheels coupled with four-wheel disc brakes and Koni shocks for a period-correct stance.
Bespoke 2+2 Cabin and Beige Leather Re-Trim
Inside, the cabin was expertly re-trimmed in beige leather with black piping during the refurbishment process, creating a sophisticated contrast with the champagne exterior. The dashboard is upholstered in black microsuede and houses a full suite of Jaeger instrumentation, including a 280-km/h speedometer and a 9k-rpm tachometer. Modern convenience is provided by a Pioneer CD stereo and air conditioning, while a three-spoke Ferrero steering wheel offers a classic interface for the driver. With approximately 42k kilometers indicated, the interior retains its luxury appeal while offering the unique 2+2 seating configuration that defined the Espada.
Rebuilt Quad-Cam V12 and Manual Shifting
The 3,929cc quad-cam V12 engine was factory rated at 350 hp/PS and 290 lb-ft/Nm of torque, breathing through a signature setup of six Weber carburetors. During the multi-year refurbishment, this engine was completely rebuilt to ensure its continued mechanical integrity. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, offering a visceral driving experience that modern automatics cannot replicate. Recent maintenance in preparation for the sale included changing the engine, transmission, and differential fluids, as well as replacing the battery and spark plugs to ensure turn-key readiness.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.9L Quad-Cam V12 |
| Output (Hp/Torque) | 350 hp / 290 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Chassis Code | Series III (Chassis 9038) |
Market Position and Series III Rarity
The Series III Lamborghini Espada is widely considered the most refined iteration of the model, benefiting from several years of production improvements over the earlier S1 and S2 variants. In today’s market, its unique selling point is the combination of genuine four-passenger seating and a front-mounted V12, a layout that few exotic competitors of the 1970s could match. While contemporary Ferraris and Maseratis often focused on tighter cabin dimensions, the Espada provided a grander sense of scale and presence. This example’s rarity, as one of only 472 S3 units, places it in a high-tier category for collectors of Italian exotics.
Refurbishment History and Ownership Value
Acquired by its current owner in 2003, this Espada has been the subject of long-term care, including a comprehensive documentation of its refurbishment journey. The car benefits from a fresh service in February 2026, which included a brake fluid flush and a tuning of the Weber carburetors for optimal performance. Because the V12 engine and manual transmission were central to the mid-2000s restoration, the mechanical foundation of this vehicle is robust compared to un-restored examples. Its Belgian registration and documented history provide a transparent path for the next enthusiast to enjoy this Gandini masterpiece.
A Grand Tourer of Exceptional Presence
The 1973 Lamborghini Espada Series III remains a landmark of automotive design that merges extreme styling with high-performance capability. With its rebuilt V12 and refreshed luxury interior, this champagne metallic example offers a rare opportunity to own a meticulously maintained legend of the Sant’Agata Bolognese firm.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
