History

The Lamborghini Espada, “Espada” meaning “sword” in Spanish, was in reference to the sword that the torero used in the slaying of the bull. At the helm of this 4-seat GT coupé’s conception was Bertone’s own Marcello Gandini, who was responsible for creating the Lamborghini Marzal and the Bertone Pirana, two show stand cars from 1967 that inspired the Espada’s design. The Espada achieved a successful production run of 10 years from 1968-1978, offered in 3 distinct  series. Making the Espada one of Lamborghini’s longest-running production models until Countach production surpassed it by the mid 1980’s.  

All 3 series featured subtle redesigns of various systems and components in keeping with improvements and also to meet new DOT and EPA requirements, ongoing. Minor mechanical improvements and minor exterior alterations are easily noticeable from series to series. Standard in all examples was the 3,929cc V12 engine fed by 6 Weber 40DCOE Carburetors,  paired to a 5-speed manual transmission or, a 3-speed Chrysler torqueflite automatic transmission that became an option for later series III models. Engine output was dependent upon the series numeration. Series I had a power output of 325hp while Series II and III cars had 350hp due to 10.7:1 compression ratios. Series III vehicles also saw US-safety requirement revisions adding large impact bumpers, a secondary air injector pump, specially tuned carburetors and ignition systems all fitted to semi-monocoque unibodies. With an estimated 1,220 Espadas built, they remain a feather in Ferruccio’s cap and an important if not legendary point of automotive design

This Car

This Series III Espada on offer, Chassis #9596, is believed to be a one owner example based upon the circumstances of our acquisition and the 1 owner designation on the NJ title we received. While exact early history remains unknown and there are unfortunately no documents to support this example’s history. We believe this Espada was likely delivered by Grossmans Motorcar Corp of Nyack, NY when new. Later, we assume around the late 1980’s or early 1990’s the car was offered for sale at Ed Jurst’s Vintage Car Store, also in Nyack, NY. It is believed that the vehicle never sold and that the window sticker remained in the glove box with the car ever since. As the mileage noted on the window sticker of 34,521 remains on the odometer today. Another highlight is that this example is finished in its factory color scheme of Arancio over beige, a rare and desirable specification. Alas, we must press upon the reality that this example is a project and is being sold intended for restoration. It requires at minimum a comprehensive mechanical servicing or possibly a total rebuild to be a road worthy driver once more. Alternatively this example remains a very solid base for a total restoration both mechanically and cosmetically. Though it would be wise to preserve the wonderful original interior as on the inside this is a genuine untouched example with what we believe to be only 34,521 miles from new.

This is a rare opportunity to acquire a genuine low mileage Series III Espada in a highly desirable specification and worthy of a restoration. Included in the same are a spare, jack, tools, The Vintage Car Store window sticker, and keys.

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