1973 Lamborghini Espada S3

The Espada is a genuine 'grand tourer' built by the Italian car manufacturer Lamborghini between 1968 and 1978.

It was based on the Lamborghini Marzal prototype concept car that was displayed at the 1967 Geneva Auto Show, and also inspired by the Bertone Pirana. The Espada was intended to fill the void that existed for a true four seat car in Lamborghini's line up, which already included the 350GT and Miura. It was a good decision because reported sales figures made it the most successful Lamborghini model at the time. The car was designed by Marcello Gandini of Bertone and it became well recognised as a vehicle that had a reputation as being a true drivers' car despite having four seats. The name "Espada" translates as "sword" in Spanish, depicting the sword of bullfighters.

The Espada S1 was originally fitted with a 4.0 Litre 325bhp V12 Engine, fully independent suspension, disc brakes to all four wheels and manual transmission.

During 10 years of production the car underwent some changes, and three different Series were produced. These were the S1 (1968-1970), the S2 (1970-1972) and the S3 (1972-1978). Each model featured engine power improvements, but only minor details were changed with the exterior design. The interior was modified between each model. An all new dashboard and steering wheel was installed for the S2, and the interior was again revamped further for the S3. During the early 1970's, power steering was offered as an option, and in 1974 automatic transmission was also available.

The car offered here today was first registered in September 1973 making it a Series 3 car benefitting from all the progressive evolution of the model. This car has been the recipient of significant restoration, with £16,000 having been spent from February 2010 to April 2012 with Jota Engineering, Surrey. The result is a V12 engine which performs faultlessly delivering the famed Lamborghini driving experience. Mechanically ideal, structurally sound, but cosmetically wanting, this car is the perfect candidate for mild surface restoration, the result of which would result in an exception all-round supercar. The interior, with the tan leather seats and blue piping, the headlining, dashboard and carpets are all in exemplary condition; however, despite the retention of the original Campagnolo alloy wheels shod in Vredestein tyres, areas of the Bertone coachwork require some attention to rectify light cracking.

Offered with a valid MoT test certificate to June 2013 and some history and receipts, this car could be enjoyed in its current state as a handsome and competent grand tourer, or undergo light restoration to reach a standard befitting the Lamborghini brand.