1974 Lamborghini Espada Series III,1 of Only 55 Produced, Factory Auto Gearbox

Description

Rare and Original 1974 Lamborghini Espada Series III: 1 of Only 55 Produced with a Factory Automatic Gearbox

This incredibly rare factory optioned automatic Espada Series III is a highly undisturbed example, with a condition which leads us to believe that the 33,000 miles shown is correct from new. White with Black and Red interior. Just 55 examples were equipped from Lamborghini with the Chrysler TorqueFlite automatic transmission. Offered with tools, a jack, and the matching spare.

The Espada was pennedby Marcello Gandini at Bertone. This example is finished in white and features US-spec front and rear bumpers. Black, red, and silver striping has been added.Factory 15″ 5-lug wheels wear Pirelli Cinturato tires. Exterior equipment includes quad ANSA exhaust outlets, twin NACA ducts on the hood, and a roof-mounted antenna. The front and rear seats have been retrimmed in black leather with red inserts and stitching. Replacement red wool carpeting also has been installed, and the red and black theme carries over to the door panels. Standard equipment included power windows and air conditioning.

The car retains its black “mouse hair” dashboard, which houses a Jensen cassette deck, a 9k-rpm tachometer, and a 180-mph speedometer. The 5-digitodometer shows 33k miles.The 3.9-liter DOHC V12 is equipped with six 2-barrel Weber carburetors and was rated at 350 horsepower when new. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a factory-optional TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic transmission.

The car is exceptionally solid, straight, and appears to retain much of its original paint, which is in very good condition. Period typical pin striping paint has been added in black, red, and silver, which contrasts nicely to the white background and further accentuates the Espadas outrageous lines. The interior has been partially re-trimmed in high quality leather and makes a very smart presentation. The original mouse hair dash material remains, further complementing the undisturbed nature of this particular example. The carpets have also been replaced with correct wool material, and are excellent. The engine bay, impressive and complex in nature, is reasonably well detailed, appears largely original in equipment, and very dry. The car starts easily and drives well, with the confidence inspiring feel of a never disassembled car. The steering, suspension, and braking systems are all functioning well. This Espada boasts a rare automatic transmission, altogether appropriate for Grand Touring automobile today, as stop and go traffic is even more of a reality now than it was during the 1970s.

As well as being 1 of 55 Espadas built with an automatic gearbox, it's also quite rare to find such a well maintained and structurally solid example of these impressive grand tourers. As a very late production example, this car benefits from the many small improvements made during the production cycle. The Espada represents outstanding value when compared to Ferraris of the era, and in many ways, is a more well appointed and impressive car. At the very least, the Espada provides for an interesting conversation topic, and makes a statement of uniqueness on arrival.

More photos on request.

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