Espada GTE (Series II) - the STORY

On an early January 1970 Brussels Auto Show, a slightly altered Espada was introduced, it was designated the Espada 400 GTE, but it is better known as the Series II model.

The main changes over the first series could be found on the inside, the complete dashboard was redesigned, now with a lockable glove-compartment, the steering-wheel was redesigned, the rear passengers received additional ventilation, and the new rear armrest now incorporated a small light.

The styling wasn't altered too much, during the Series II production run however, new five-bolt wheels were introduced to replace the Miura knock-off types.

Another big change was made under the hood, the Miura/Islero 'S' engine was installed in the Espada GTE, with a 10.7 compression-ratio, this engine was able to output 350 Bhp at 7500 rpm.

New ventilated disc brakes with a width of 32 mm at the front and 22 mm at the rear were installed and power assisted steering was made optionally available. The front portion of the door windows were now fixed, and the vertical rear window lost it's bumper.

This Series II Espada was only in production for two years, but it reached the highest production number of the different Espada series, 575 Series II were produced by Lamborghini. Most Espada's on sale today are therefore Series II models, and because of the improved level of finish, this series is considered as the best Espada.

Two special versions were built on the Series II chassis, the first was presented by Bertone himself, the Espada VIP featured a TV set between the front seats, a complete bar was installed in the rear sides and the two-tone leather interior was upholstered in the same colors as the exterior. This special is still owned by Bertone, but a better known special was designed and built by Frua and was designated the Frua Faena. (see entry)

A 1970 Espada with serial number 7665 was converted into a 2-door convertible, the car is finished in red over beige leather, the whereabouts of this car are unknown to me, but if anyone has more information, please let me know.

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