1973 De Tomaso Pantera GT5S

De Tomaso sports cars were produced in Italy by an Argentinian ex-racing driver Alejandro De Tomaso. The Pantera made its debut in 1970, replacing the previous Mangusta, and utilised a 5.8 liter Ford V8 engine coupled to a four speed ZF transaxle in a steel monocoque body. The styling was by Ghia, and the motor cars were lavishly equipped with features such as electric windows, and air conditioning to appeal to the American market. Indeed the project was strongly supported initially by Ford who marketed the car in the USA through their Lincoln-Mercury division. In 1975, however, Ford withdrew their support after having sold around 5,500 vehicles. De Tomaso continued production of the Pantera at much reduced volumes until 1993, at the same time evolving the design into the GT5 and GT5S models, the latter featuring flared wheel arches that gave it a distinctive wide body look.

The motor car on offer here is based on a GT5S. The original engine has been replaced with a 5.7 litre Chevrolet V8 with Edelbrock rocker covers and a Holley 4 barrel carburettor, but the ZF gearbox has been retained. The cooling system features stainless steel water pipes with silicon hoses. Brakes have been uprated with vented discs all round, 4 pot Lockheed AP aluminium racing calipers, Goodridge braided stainless hoses, and a Tilton adjustable bias pedal box. The suspension has been uprated with adjustable coil springs / adjustable gas dampers.

The vendor describes the bodywork as being in good condition with solid floor and very good underside. The body has had the benefit of a respray. The interior has been re-upholstered in black leather, which is still in good condition. The interior equipment includes a CD player. The condition of the engine and other mechanical equipment is understood to be good, with the brakes being very good. The exhaust system is in stainless steel.

Here is an opportunity to acquire a well sorted example of this awesome 1970’s supercar, which is supplied with the V5C registration certificate.