Lamborghini Espada 400 GT - displacement increase to four liters for the V12

The technical cornerstone of the Espada is the V12 engine with a 60 degree bank angle, which was first produced in 1963 with a displacement of 3.5 litres. Already in 1964 this was increased to four liters (3929 cm³). A remarkable example of engine development and engineering, producing 325 hp at 7200 rpm when first fitted to the Espada. This value rose to 350 hp at 7500 rpm in the Espada of the second series presented in 1970. Fed by six horizontal twin Weber carburettors (Type 40 DCOE), the V12 has a compression ratio of 9.5:1 (10.7:1 from Series II) and chain-driven, double overhead camshafts per cylinder bank. Its low weight of 232 kg is due to the extensive use of aluminum in the cylinder head, crankshaft and pistons. The front engine, which is slightly forward compared to the previous Lamborghini engines in the 350/400 GT, ensures a more spacious interior. Thanks to the large opening under the aluminum hood, the engine was easily accessible. The chassis was based on the 400 GT, but was extended to a wheelbase of 2650 millimeters and widened to a track width of 149 centimetres. The independent suspension on all four wheels features double wishbones and coil springs. In November 1968, an Espada "Lancomat" with hydropneumatic suspension was presented at the Turin Motor Show. The system was offered as an option but was ultimately chosen by very few owners