Italy vs Germany — 1968 vs 1971
| Espada Series III | 3.0 CS E9 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 365 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 289 lb-ft | 188 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,929 cc | 2,985 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 161 mph | 131 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.7 sec | 16.1 sec |
| Weight | 3,263 lbs | 3,075 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,650 mm | 2,625 mm |
| Length | 4,738 mm | 4,660 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,217 | 11,063 |
| Original MSRP | $16,000 | $9,695 |
| Value (Excellent) | $250,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 6/10 |
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 1971 BMW 3.0 CS E9 answers with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Italy and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III versus 1971 BMW 3.0 CS E9 is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III holds a clear advantage in raw power with 365 hp compared to 180 hp, a 185-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 BMW 3.0 CS relies on a Inline-6 SOHC 12V with 2,985 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,217 units built, the 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III is considerably scarcer than the BMW 3.0 CS's 11,063 examples.