Lamborghini, 1969, Espada 400 GT Bertone coupé

Lamborghini “Espada 400 GT coupé”, Bertone, 1969

Presented at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1968, it was Lamborghini's first four-seater. It aroused much interest because of its highly innovative and aerodynamic lines, designed by Marcello Gandini for Bertone. It was the answer to the gran turismo coupés already on the market, such as Maserati's "Mexico" and Ferrari's 365 GT 2+2, but with less technical refinement.
Starting with the platform of the "400GT", the Lamborghini vehicle had enormous personality; the mechanics, except for the pitch which had been extended by 15 cm, were the same as the 400 GT, including the V12, 3929cc engine, although the power had been slightly raised (325hp).

Visionary style, gran turismo heart
Presented at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1968, the Lamborghini Espada was the Sant'Agata Bolognese company's first true four-seater (single).
Designed by Marcello Gandini for Bertone, it immediately impressed with its aerodynamic and futuristic lines: a striking stylistic response to the great gran turismo coupés of the time, such as the Maserati Mexico and Ferrari 365 GT 2+2. Derived from the 400 GT, from which it takes its floorpan and mechanicals, the Espada has a wheelbase lengthened by 15 cm and is fitted with Lamborghini's classic 3,929 cc V12, increased to 325 bhp. The car is finished to a very high standard: the interior is entirely upholstered in leather, including the dashboard, an expression of 1960s Italian sports luxury. Characterised by a very low and aerodynamic design (just 1.12 metres high), the Espada introduced for the first time in Lamborghini production the hexagon as a stylistic feature, an element that would return in subsequent models right up to contemporary supercars. The fastback profile and double rear window guarantee impressive visibility, while the large bonnet is enriched by aero-inspired NACA air intakes.

SERIES - Produced in three series between 1968 and 1978, the Espada was a major commercial success: Series I (1968-1969): 186 examples, Series II (1970-1972): 575 examples, Series III (1972-1978): 456 examples.

CURIOSITY - Symbol of an era and style icon, the Espada was often the star of films, photo shoots and fashion magazines. The rarest and most fascinating version is the Espada VIP, made in only 12 examples, equipped with television, bar compartment and eccentric two-tone liveries, perfectly in line with the sophisticated and audacious aesthetics of the 1970s.
Today, the Espada represents one of the milestones in Lamborghini's history: a perfect balance of comfort, performance and revolutionary design.