1973 Lamborghini Espada

The Lamborghini Espada Series III (S3) is a fascinating piece of automotive history, especially in its right-hand drive (RHD) configuration. Here's a comprehensive look into the story, history, and significance of this unique grand tourer:

Overview: Lamborghini Espada

Production Years: 1968–1978

Total Produced: ~1,217 units

Series III Production: 1972–1978 (~456 units)

Designer: Marcello Gandini at Bertone

Name Origin: "Espada" means "sword" in Spanish, referring to the sword of a matador.

The Espada was Lamborghini’s answer to a luxurious 2+2 GT that could comfortably carry four adults, making it a more practical offering compared to the exotic Miura.

The Series III (S3): 1972–1978

The S3 Espada was the final and most refined version. Improvements included:

Updated interior: More modern and luxurious, with a better dashboard layout and enhanced trim.

Power steering standard

Optional automatic transmission (Chrysler TorqueFlite 3-speed)

Engine: 3.9L V12 producing around 350 hp

Brakes: Upgraded to larger Girling disc brakes

Wheels: Often fitted with Campagnolo alloy wheels

Right-Hand Drive (RHD) Espadas

Rarity: Of the 1,217 Espadas made, only a small number were factory-produced in RHD, specifically for markets like the UK, Australia, Japan, and South Africa.

Estimated RHD production for the S3: Fewer than 120 cars.

Special Features: UK-market cars often had specific trim details, and RHD conversions were factory-built, not aftermarket in most cases.

Historical Significance

One of the few practical V12 Lamborghinis: The Espada was Lamborghini’s flagship GT of the 1970s, offering everyday usability with exotic performance.

Influenced other models: Its front-engine, 4-seat layout influenced later Lambos like the Jarama and LM002, and even modern 4-seaters like the Urus SUV.

Owned by celebrities: It attracted notable owners like Sir Paul McCartney and Rod Stewart.

Interesting Facts

Interior Space: Despite its low profile, the Espada was remarkably spacious inside due to its long wheelbase and clever packaging.

Unique Sound: The carbureted V12 has a distinctive roar, especially when uncorked with aftermarket exhausts.

Collector's Value Today

RHD Espadas, especially Series III, are very desirable due to their rarity and usability.

Condition, originality, and provenance (e.g., celebrity ownership or matching numbers) significantly affect value.

Prices (as of 2025): RHD S3 Espadas in top condition can fetch between £100,000–£180,000, with concours examples exceeding that.

In Summary

The RHD Lamborghini Espada S3 is a rare and elegant grand tourer that marked Lamborghini’s commitment to producing more than just mid-engine supercars. As one of the few practical V12s from the era—and in RHD—it holds a special place in the brand's history and the hearts of collectors who appreciate 1970s design, innovation, and road presence.

This exceptional 1973 Series III Lamborghini Espada was purchased by the current owner in 2015 and while in the possession the car has been subject to a full bare metal repaint in the original vibrant orange. All the chrome and bright metal finishers have been perfctley refinished and rubbers and seals replaced.

All gaps and shut lines are incredibly in line and the doors bonnet and glass tail gate shut as they should perfectly.

The interior is quite original with that nicely worn patina of the dark tan leather seats, Carpets and roof lining is also all original.

Over time the steering, suspension and brakes have all been overhauled with piles of invoices supporting the work carried out. The engine is very sweet and dry with the 3.9 liter V12 Lamborghini engine with the Weber carburettors, it picks up so smoothly and it obvious the power is there when needed.

Dry and quite smooth operating five speed manual gearbox.

Interestingly everything works how it should and in the right order, a truly amazing 1973 super car and right hand drive, ticks all the right boxes.