Lamborghini Espada

vs

Ferrari 250 GT Lusso

Italy vs Italy — 1968 vs 1963

Lamborghini Espada (1968)
Ferrari 250 GT Lusso (1963)
Specifications
Espada Series III250 GT Lusso
Horsepower365 hp240 hp
Torque289 lb-ft181 lb-ft
Engine Size3,929 cc2,953 cc
0-60 mph6.5 sec7.2 sec
Top Speed161 mph150 mph
¼ Mile14.7 sec15.0 sec
Weight3,263 lbs2,888 lbs
Wheelbase2,650 mm2,400 mm
Length4,738 mm4,440 mm
Units Produced1,217350
Original MSRP$16,000$13,275
Value (Excellent)$250,000$3,500,000
Collectibility7/109/10
Rarity7/108/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso answers with lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

In the world of Grand Tourer cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III versus the 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso. Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III holds a clear advantage in raw power with 365 hp compared to 240 hp, a 125-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lamborghini Espada uses a V12 DOHC displacing 3,929 cc, while the Ferrari 250 GT Lusso relies on a V12 SOHC with 2,953 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 7.2 seconds. The Ferrari 250 GT Lusso carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 375 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 350 units built, the 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso is considerably scarcer than the Lamborghini Espada's 1,217 examples. On the collector market, the 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso commands a significant premium over the 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.