1972 DeTomaso Pantera

Make

DeTomaso

Model

Pantera

Year

1972

Listed price

Price not provided

Location

Emeryville, CA

Transmission

5-speed manual

Mileage

39,965 miles

The De Tomaso Pantera burst onto the scene in 1971, a bold Italian-American hybrid designed to bring exotic mid-engine performance to a broader audience. Alejandro de Tomaso, an Argentine industrialist with a passion for racing, envisioned a car that combined Italian styling and chassis design with reliable, potent American V8 power. The Pantera, meaning "Panther" in Italian, was a dramatic departure from its predecessor, the Mangusta, offering a more refined driving experience and a crucial partnership with Ford, which distributed the cars through its Lincoln-Mercury dealerships. Its sleek Ghia-designed body, penned by Tom Tjaarda, cloaked a monocoque chassis and a potent Ford Cleveland V8, creating an accessible supercar that could genuinely challenge the established European elite. This 1972 example represents a prime early iteration of the Pantera, before the energy crisis and evolving regulations began to dilute its raw character. Showing 39,965 miles, this particular Pantera has been the beneficiary of a comprehensive and well-documented transformation, with over $260,000 invested to elevate its performance and presentation. Power comes from the iconic 351ci Ford V8, paired with a gated 5-speed manual transmission – the quintessential Pantera powertrain. While specific power output isn't detailed, the extensive investment suggests a significantly enhanced and finely tuned machine, ready to deliver an exhilarating driving experience that honors its heritage. This is a meticulously prepared Pantera, ready for its next discerning owner to enjoy its potent blend of Italian flair and American muscle.