The Lamborghini Espada is a striking four-seat GT coupe designed by Marcello Gandini at Bertone. It enjoyed a limited production run from 1968 through 1978. This stunning 1968 Espada - opens in new window or tab. example, now for sale on eBay, is rare. Fewer than 200 Series 1 cars were built at Lamborghini’s Sant'Agata plant in Bolognese, Italy.
There were a total of about 1,200 Espadas produced over the course of three series: S1 (’68–’70), S2 (’70–’72), and S3 (’72–’78). Espada is the Spanish word for sword.
The 1968 Espada on eBay is fitted with the original 24-valve overhead cam 3.9-liter V12 engine, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. Half a dozen Weber side-draft carburetors dole out the petrol.
The car underwent an exterior and interior freshening about 25 years ago. While it left the factory with a gold metallic finish, the car was taken down to bare metal and re-sprayed in dark blue metallic paint. The Campagnolo alloys were also spiffed up. The interior was refreshed with new carpets, new leather upholstery on the front bucket seats, and a new headliner at the time. The seller states that “the leather is still soft and supple,” and that the rear seats are “finished in their original leather and look remarkable.”
The engine compartment has been nicely refinished and detailed—and looks factory-fresh. The Weber carburetors have been rebuilt, a valve job was performed, and a full stainless steel exhaust system was installed. Much of the hardware under the hood has been re-plated or repainted. The quilted under-hood insulation blanket has been replaced, as well. The brakes, clutch master cylinder, and suspension have all been looked after.
The seller provides a thorough rundown on engine performance, drivability, system functionality, and documentation on the sale page. Most of the systems are operational, including heat and air conditioning (A/C). The A/C system has been updated to use r-134a refrigerant and is operational, but not quite up to modern standards. “We’ve not tested the car on a hot day,” states the seller. “We assume cooling to be typical, late ‘60s Italian adequate.”
Most of the gauges are operational, although the fuel gauge is wonky. If you’ve ever lived with an old car and an unreliable fuel gauge, you know it’s all just part of the adventure.
While its rarity may tempt some to tuck the gorgeous Espada - opens in new window or tab. away as an investment, this V12 animal begs to be driven. “Overall, the car is one that could be very enjoyable cruising long distance at high speeds or pleasant enough for a back roads blast.”
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.