60 YEARS OF LAMBORGHINI

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1968 Lamborghini 400GT 2+2

The 400GT 2+2 was the last evolution of the first wave of production Lamborghinis, although the model was markedly different to the earlier cars. While the bonnet and bootlid panels remained made from alloy, the body was largely constructed from steel. There was also a higher roofline to accommodate the 2+2’s rear occasional seats,

1972 Lamborghini Espada

The Espada was Lamborghini’s daring take on the GT class in the late 1960s. Just 1217 were made from 1969-78, and this car is one of 572 Series 2s built. The Series 2 had bolt-on wheels, uprated suspension and the option of power steering. This particular example was delivered to Jersey, before calling California home.

The current owner brought it to the UK in 1988, and in 1990 he passed it to his brother, who repainted it yellow. The current owner took it back in 2000, and ten years later enlisted the combined efforts of engine builder B & E Randall, gearbox and diff specialist Hardy Engineering and trimmer John Foy Vintage Restoration. as well as twin rather than single headlamps at the front.

In that time, the owner has also restored or replaced the ancillaries, wiring loom, suspension, brakes and steering.

Meanwhile, the engine was upgraded to 3929cc, taking ultimate power to 320bhp; this resulted in a 7.5-second 0-60mph sprint time and a top speed of 156mph.

Fewer than 250 examples of the 400GT 2+2s were ever built, and the car displayed at London Concours –chassis no. 01342 – is one of a mere nine right-handdrive examples that were converted by specialist Hooper under licence from Lamborghini.