Lamborghini Espada (1968-78)
Production Total:
A total of 1,217 Lamborghini Espadas were manufactured between 1968 and 1978. This model was one of Lamborghini's most successful and longest-running models during that period.
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Price New: In 1968, the new price of a Lamborghini Espada in the UK was approximately **£7,000**.
Using historical inflation data, £7,000 in 1968 would be approximately £126,000 in 2025.
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Record in UK 2025
There are approximately 12-15 Lamborghini Espadas recorded by the DVLA as being actively used on UK roads in 2025.
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PLEASE NOTE: The information provided below is given in averages across Northern Ireland at the date specified. Petrol reflect average prices for four star fuel in litres.
Road Tax: In 1972, the road tax for a Lamborghini Espada in the UK would have been based on its engine size. Given that the Lamborghini Espada had an engine capacity of around 4.0 liters, the road tax would have been approximately **£10 per year**.
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Petrol: In 1972, the average price of four-star petrol in the UK was around **31 pence per litre**.
Using historical inflation data, **31 pence per litre** of petrol in 1972 would be approximately **£4.50 per litre** in 2025.
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Insurance: The average cost of insuring a Lamborghini Espada in the UK in 1972 would likely have been between £200 and £400 annually, depending on factors such as driver profile, location, and usage conditions.
In terms of today’s money (2025), insuring a Lamborghini Espada in the UK at an annual cost of £200–£400 in 1972 would equate to approximately £3,696–£7,392 annually.
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The Lamborghini Espada, like many classic cars, has its share of common faults. Here are some issues that owners and enthusiasts often encounter:
1. **Electrical Problems**: The Espada's electrical system can be prone to faults, including issues with the wiring and electrical components.
2. **Cooling System**: Overheating can be a problem, especially in older models. The cooling system may require regular maintenance to prevent issues.
3. **Rust**: Rust is a common issue in many classic cars, and the Espada is no exception. Pay particular attention to the chassis and body panels.
4. **Suspension and Steering**: The suspension and steering components can wear out over time, leading to handling issues.
5. **Engine and Transmission**: While the V12 engine is robust, it requires regular maintenance. The transmission, especially in early models, can also be problematic.
These issues are typical for a car of its age and complexity, but with proper care and maintenance, an Espada can still be a joy to own and drive.
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Generations
The Lamborghini Espada had three generations, also known as series:
1. **Series I (1968-1970)**: The original version with a 4.0-liter V12 engine.
2. **Series II (1970-1972)**: Featured some design updates and improvements in performance.
3. **Series III (1972-1978)**: The final version with further refinements and enhancements.
Each series brought subtle changes and improvements, making the Espada a unique and evolving model throughout its production run.
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Trim Levels
The Lamborghini Espada didn't have traditional trim levels like modern cars, but it did go through three distinct series during its production run, each with its own set of features and improvements:
1. **Series I (1968-1970)**: The original version with a 4.0-liter V12 engine, producing around 325 horsepower. It featured a distinctive dashboard design and luxurious interior.
2. **Series II (1970-1972)**: This series introduced several improvements, including a more powerful engine (up to 350 horsepower), ventilated disc brakes, and an updated interior with a neater dashboard layout.
3. **Series III (1972-1978)**: The final version included further refinements, such as standard air conditioning and power steering, as well as minor exterior and interior updates.
Each series brought subtle changes and enhancements, making the Espada a unique and evolving model throughout its production run.
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Engines
The Lamborghini Espada was equipped with a single engine option throughout its production run, but it underwent several refinements over the years:
- **3.9-liter V12 Engine**: This engine was derived from the one used in the Lamborghini 400 GT 2+2. It featured six Weber carburettors and produced around 325 horsepower in the Series I models. In the Series II and III, the engine's output was increased to approximately 350 horsepower.
This powerful V12 engine was a key feature of the Espada, contributing to its reputation as a high-performance grand tourer.
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Performance
Here's a breakdown of the performance you could expect from each generation of the Lamborghini Espada:
### Series I (1968-1970)
- **Engine**: 3.9-liter V12
- **Power**: 325 horsepower
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 6.5 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 155 mph (250 km/h)
### Series II (1970-1972)
- **Engine**: 3.9-liter V12 (improved)
- **Power**: 350 horsepower
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 6.5 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 155 mph (250 km/h)
### Series III (1972-1978)
- **Engine**: 3.9-liter V12 (further refined)
- **Power**: 350 horsepower
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 6.6 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 155 mph (250 km/h) Specs & Performance](https://www.lambocars.com/espada-gt-series-iii-specs-performance/)
Each series brought subtle improvements and refinements, maintaining the Espada's reputation as a high-performance grand tourer.
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Spares
Here are some places where you can locate spare parts for a Lamborghini Espada in the UK or Ireland:
1. **Classic Lamborghini Parts**: They offer a wide range of new old stock and used parts for the Espada. You can check their inventory and make inquiries [here](https://www.classiclamborghiniparts.co.uk/Espada/).
2. **Eurospares**: Known for their extensive selection of genuine and OEM parts for Lamborghini models, including the Espada. You can explore their parts catalogue [here](https://www.eurospares.co.uk/Lamborghini/Espada).
3. **Autodoc**: They provide a variety of spare parts and accessories for the Lamborghini Espada. You can start your search [here](https://www.autodoc.co.uk/spares/lamborghini/espada).
These sources should help you find the parts you need to keep your classic Espada in top condition.
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Specialists NI
There are garages in Northern Ireland that can maintain a Lamborghini Espada. Here are a couple of options:
1. **McMillan Specialist Cars**: Located in Antrim, McMillan Specialist Cars is known for their expertise in high-end vehicles, including Lamborghinis. They offer a range of services from general repairs to specialist maintenance.
2. **The Supercar Rooms**: While not in Northern Ireland, The Supercar Rooms in the UK is an independent Lamborghini service centre that offers collection and return services. They have specialist technicians and state-of-the-art facilities.
These garages should be able to provide the care and maintenance your Espada needs.
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Racing
The Lamborghini Espada was primarily designed as a grand touring car, rather than a racing car. It was built for luxury and performance on the road, offering a comfortable and stylish driving experience for long-distance travel. As such, the Espada did not have a significant presence in competitive racing events.
However, Lamborghini's focus during the Espada's production years was more on creating high-performance road cars rather than racing cars. Models like the Miura and later the Countach were more aligned with Lamborghini's racing aspirations.
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Valuations
The current value of a Lamborghini Espada in the UK can vary depending on the condition, history, and specific model. Generally, prices for a well-maintained Espada range from **£60,000 to £100,000**.
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