1972 De Tomaso Pantera

Make

De Tomaso

Model

Pantera

Year

1972

Listed price

$129,995

Location

Milford, Michigan

Transmission

ZF 5-Speed

Mileage

18,382 miles

The De Tomaso Pantera, Italian for "Panther," roared onto the scene in 1971 as Alejandro de Tomaso's ambitious follow-up to the Mangusta. Conceived as a more mass-produced, yet still exotic, mid-engine sports car, it blended Italian styling by Ghia's Tom Tjaarda with reliable American V8 power, a partnership famously facilitated by Ford, which briefly sold the Pantera through its Lincoln-Mercury dealerships. Its sleek, wedge-shaped body and formidable performance, thanks to its robust Ford Cleveland engine, offered a compelling alternative to more expensive European rivals, quickly cementing its place as an icon of 1970s supercar design and a cornerstone of De Tomaso's legacy. This 1972 Pantera, a prime example from the model's early production, has been transformed into a meticulously crafted restomod, showcasing the timeless appeal of its original design while integrating modern performance and comfort. With just 18,382 miles on the odometer, this coupe retains its heart in the form of a 351 cubic inch Cleveland V8, now enhanced with fuel injection for improved power and drivability. The power is expertly managed by its original ZF 5-speed transaxle, a hallmark of the Pantera's sophisticated engineering, while a suite of upgrades including Wilwood power disc brakes, Ridetech coilover suspension, and power steering ensures a thoroughly contemporary driving experience. Finished in a striking Viper PPG paint and featuring a beautifully reupholstered interior, custom forged wheels, vintage A/C, and a RetroSounds Bluetooth stereo, this Pantera, with its build completed in 2021, represents a no-compromise fusion of classic style and modern dynamism. It’s a chance to acquire a meticulously upgraded piece of Italian-American motoring history.