The Espada, taking its name from the weapon of a matador, featured a design reminiscent of the ill-fated, rear-engined, six-cylinder Marzal. However, it distinguished itself by placing its 4.0-liter, four-cam V-12 engine at the front. This engine, initially seen in the 400GT and also utilized in the contemporary Islero, delivered 325bhp, providing the distinctive Bertone-styled coupe with the power to reach 150mph.
Incorporating Islero running gear but with a platform-type, semi-monocoque chassis instead of the former’s tubular frame, the Espada made its debut in January 1970. The Series II models, introduced later, boasted an additional 25bhp, pushing the top speed to 155mph. They also featured an improved dashboard layout and the option of power-assisted steering.
The dashboard received another revision in late 1972 for the Series III, which also came with power steering as a standard feature. This iteration included upgraded brakes, minor suspension enhancements, and a restyled front grille. Production of the Espada came to an end in 1978 after a total of 1,217 of these impressive vehicles had been manufactured.
Source: Bonhams Cars
