The Lamborghini Espada, powered by the legendary 12-cylinder engine, has left an indelible mark on automotive history. As the first four-seat vehicle by Lamborghini, the Espada 400 GT became the brand’s best-selling model for years, demonstrating exceptional technical innovation and performance. Its front-mounted 4-liter V12 engine ensured it was always an extremely fast grand tourer, despite its increased size.
Ferruccio Lamborghini’s Vision
Company founder Ferruccio Lamborghini had a clear objective: to produce the fastest, most luxurious, and comfortable grand tourer. This vision materialized with the Espada 400 GT, unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1968. It could comfortably seat four adults and offered more space for luggage and passengers than its predecessors, the 400 GT 2+2 and the Islero 400 GT 2+2. The Espada featured outstanding finishes with generous leather use and refined materials. Power steering became an option in 1969 and standard from 1972, with an automatic transmission available from 1974.
Timeline and Variants
Espada 400 GT Series I (1968-1969)
The first Espada model, the Series I, was produced between 1968 and 1969. It introduced the world to the concept of a luxurious, high-performance four-seater grand tourer.
Specifications and Performance:
- Engine: 4-liter (3929 cc) V12
- Power Output: 325 hp at 7200 rpm
- Top Speed: 245 km/h
- Notable Features: Luxurious leather interior, optional power steering from 1969
Espada 400 GTE Series II (1970-1972)
The Series II, produced from 1970 to 1972, saw several improvements, including increased power and refined design elements.
Specifications and Performance:
- Engine: 4-liter (3929 cc) V12
- Power Output: 350 hp at 7500 rpm
- Top Speed: 250 km/h
- Notable Features: Higher compression ratio (10.7:1), power steering as standard from 1972, optional automatic transmission from 1974
Espada 400 GTS Series III (1972-1978)
The Series III, produced from 1972 to 1978, was the final and most refined variant of the Espada, featuring further enhancements in comfort and performance.
Specifications and Performance:
- Engine: 4-liter (3929 cc) V12
- Power Output: 350 hp at 7500 rpm
- Top Speed: 260 km/h
- Notable Features: Enhanced interior comfort, improved suspension, standard power steering and optional automatic transmission
The Espada VIP
In 1971, Lamborghini introduced the Espada VIP, based on the Espada 400 GTE Series II, with only 12 units produced. These special models featured a mini-bar and refrigerator in the rear side panels and a Brionvega Algol 11 television on the transmission tunnel. The first models had a distinctive orange hue and matching interior, though later versions came in other color combinations. The Espada VIP is highly sought after by collectors today.
Celebrity Owners and Cultural Impact
One of the most famous Espada owners was Sir Paul McCartney, who bought a right-hand-drive 1972 Espada Series III. Despite an incident where the car rolled into a pond, it remained in use for many years and became part of an English pub’s decor before being sold to an enthusiast in 2005.
American television host Jay Leno has owned one of the first Espada Series II models since 1986, and EVO magazine founder Harry Metcalfe owns a right-hand-drive 1970 Series II. The Espada has appeared in around 50 films, with the 1973 Italian movie “Flatfoot,” starring Bud Spencer, being particularly notable among fans.
The Lamborghini Espada remains a significant and iconic grand tourer, embodying Ferruccio Lamborghini’s vision of luxury, speed, and comfort. Its technical innovations, performance, and cultural impact have cemented its status as a classic and beloved model among car enthusiasts worldwide.
Specifications and Performance Summary
Espada 400 GT Series I (1968-1969):
- Engine: 4-liter (3929 cc) V12
- Power Output: 325 hp at 7200 rpm
- Top Speed: 245 km/h
- Features: Luxurious leather interior, optional power steering
Espada 400 GTE Series II (1970-1972):
- Engine: 4-liter (3929 cc) V12
- Power Output: 350 hp at 7500 rpm
- Top Speed: 250 km/h
- Features: Higher compression ratio, standard power steering from 1972, optional automatic transmission
Espada 400 GTS Series III (1972-1978):
- Engine: 4-liter (3929 cc) V12
- Power Output: 350 hp at 7500 rpm
- Top Speed: 260 km/h
- Features: Enhanced interior comfort, improved suspension, standard power steering, and optional automatic transmission
Espada VIP (1971):
- Special Features: Mini-bar, refrigerator, Brionvega Algol 11 television, distinctive color combinations
The Lamborghini Espada’s legacy as a luxurious, high-performance grand tourer is unparalleled, making it a timeless icon in the automotive world.
Source: Lamborghini
Media Sources: Lamborghini & Wheelz.me
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