Italy vs West Germany — 1968 vs 1971
| Espada Series III | 3.0 CSi Fuel-Injected Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 365 hp | 200 hp |
| Torque | 289 lb-ft | 192 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,929 cc | 2,985 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec | 7.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 161 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.7 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,263 lbs | 3,086 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,650 mm | 2,625 mm |
| Length | 4,738 mm | 4,660 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,217 | 8,199 |
| Original MSRP | $16,000 | $10,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $250,000 | $180,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
On balance, the 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1971 BMW 3.0 CSi Fuel-Injected Coupe counters with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III for outright capability, or the 1971 BMW 3.0 CSi Fuel-Injected Coupe for a more distinctive ownership experience.
The rivalry between Italy and West Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III versus 1971 BMW 3.0 CSi Fuel-Injected Coupe 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 200 hp, a 165-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 CSi relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,985 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Lamborghini Espada Series III edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 7.0 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 CSi's 8,199 examples.