May 16th 2015 Premier Automobile Sale (13)
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/15/2015
The Pantera, Italian for Panther, was produced by the Italian car company De Tomaso from 1971 to 1991. It would become their most popular model with 7,000 produced over their 20 year run. The car was actually designed by American Tom Tjaarda. The Pantera replaced the Mangusta, which employed a steel backbone chassis whereas the Pantera utilized a monocoque construction. The T-shaped logo was the brand used by De Tomaso’s Argentinian cattle ranching ancestors.The first Panteras were powered by a Ford 351 cu in engine producing almost 380 hp. The hi-torque produced by the Ford reduced need for excessive gear changes. The Pantera used a ZF transaxle, had power four wheel disc brakes and rack and pinion steering. It could accelerate from 0-60 in just 5.5 seconds. Late in 1971 Ford began importing Panteras through its Lincoln-Mercury dealers. Ford ended its relationship with De Tomaso in 1975, having sold more than 5,000 cars. Production continued, however, until 1991 with numerous up-grades and model changes.Offered is a highly modified 1972 De Tomaso Pantera. Prepared for both hi-performance street or racing applications, this Pantera has been constructed with thousands of dollars of performance enhancements. Beginning with an aluminum SVO stroked 427 cu in engine with Eagle steel crank and connecting rods, Yates aluminum heads and competition roller cam, no expense was spared on the power plant. Traditional over-heating issues with the Pantera have been addressed with SCT oil pump, Canton road race oil pan, remote oil cooler and aluminum radiator with heavy duty cooling fans. The ZF transaxle has been improved with Timken bearings and hydraulic throw-out bearings.The suspension has been improved with Koni shocks and stopping power provided by Wilwood brakes and rotors. Fire extinguisher system, 4-post roll cage and quick release steering provide for safety when driven on track days. Flared wheel arches have been added to accommodate 18x13 and 18x10 wheels and tires. An extra set of rain tires and wheels are included as well as many of the original parts. This Pantera represents a chance to own an Italian supercar that can be driven on both street and track at a fraction of the original investment cost. • 427 Aluminum Engine• Koni Shocks• 2 Sets of Wheels• Competition Prepared• ZF Transaxle