Galleria di Tom Automobili

History

Lamborghini’s bold four-seater vision comes to life.

In the 1960s, Lamborghini expanded its model range beyond the Miura and the 400 GT, aiming to create a fast, comfortable GT car that
could accommodate four passengers while maintaining the brand’s signature performance. Inspired by the 1967 Lamborghini Marzal concept,
the Espada debuted at the 1968 Geneva Motor Show, offering a practical alternative to Lamborghini’s typical two-seater sports cars.
Over its ten-year production run, Lamborghini refined the Espada through three series:
Series I (1968–1970): Early models with 325 hp and a distinctive dashboard layout.
Series II (1970–1972): Improved interior, 350 hp, and better cooling.
Series III (1972–1978): Updated styling, optional automatic transmission, and power steering.
With 1,217 units produced, the Espada became one of Lamborghini’s most successful models of the era.

Design

Marcello Gandini’s blend of elegance and practicality.

The Espada’s design, crafted by Marcello Gandini at Bertone, stands apart among Lamborghinis. Its low, wide stance, sharp angles, and long wheelbase give
it a commanding road presence. One of its most distinctive features is the large glass rear hatch, enhancing visibility and adding a futuristic flair.
The interior prioritized comfort, with luxurious leather upholstery, a well-equipped dashboard, and ample space for four adults.
Later models introduced refined materials and optional power steering to enhance the driving experience.

Driving Experience

Performance and comfort in perfect balance.

Despite its grand touring nature, the Espada remained a true Lamborghini at heart. Its 3.9L V12 engine, producing up to 378 hp, delivered thrilling acceleration
and a top speed of 245 km/h (152 mph). The five-speed manual gearbox offered an engaging experience, while the optional automatic transmission introduced
in Series III provided a more relaxed ride.
The double wishbone suspension ensured smooth handling, and four-wheel disc brakes offered confident stopping power.
Although larger and heavier than other Lamborghinis, it retained impressive agility for a four-seater GT.

Fun Facts

Stories that made the Espada legendary.

• The Name: "Espada" means "sword" in Spanish, continuing Lamborghini’s tradition of bullfighting-inspired names.
• Marzal Connection: The Espada’s design drew heavily from the Marzal concept, including its glass-heavy layout and futuristic cues.
• Automatic First: The Series III Espada was Lamborghini’s first model available with an automatic transmission.
• Unique Interior: Early Espadas featured a hexagonal instrument cluster—a hallmark of Marcello Gandini’s design language.
• Royal Approval: Prince Rainier III of Monaco owned an Espada, further cementing its luxury GT status.
• Practical GT: Despite its performance credentials, the Espada offered a spacious trunk, making it highly practical for a Lamborghini.
• Movie Star: The Espada appeared in films and TV shows, including "The Man Who Haunted Himself" (1970) starring Roger Moore.

Legacy

Paving the way for Lamborghini’s future four-seaters.

The Espada remains a cult classic, admired for its bold design and daring concept. It influenced future four-seater Lamborghinis,
from the LM002 to the Urus and even the Asterion concept.
Today, the Espada stands as proof that a four-seater grand tourer can carry the soul of a raging bull while embracing luxury and practicality.