The history

Starting with the construction of Formula 1 racing cars, the car manufacturer De Tomaso began building road-going sports cars in the mid-1960s.  

De Tomaso agreed to manufacture and assemble Ford V8 engines, which led to a close relationship with the American Ford Group.

With the Pantera, De Tomaso also wanted to build larger numbers, but this was brought to an abrupt halt by the oil crisis. As a result, only 400 examples of the most powerful Pantera of all, the GTS, were built.

This example was produced in 1975 and first registered in Lucerne in August 1976. The entire owner history and maintenance records are available. Between 2003 and 2006, the Pantera underwent an intensive refit, including a new paint job. Less than 10,000 km have been driven since then.

Bodywork and paintwork

You can see that the vehicle has been exceptionally well cared for. The entire structure is untouched, without any corrosion or other damage. The paintwork is of new car quality, the only damage being a stone chip to the edge of the front lip.

Interior

The original leather has been well cared for and preserved without ever being restored or replaced. The carpeting in the passenger compartment is new, as is that under the front and rear hood.

Engine and mechanics

The entire technology was overhauled in preparation for the veteran's inspection in fall 2022 and the carburetors were prepared for a complete overhaul.

Chassis

The chassis has very good test bench values, which also applies to the brakes. The optional rims (7.5 inch front, 10 inch rear) were fitted in 2006 to protect the original magnesium wheels. The original wheels are in good condition but with old tires.

Driving experience

The Pantera is an exceptionally well-balanced mid-engined sports car that shines in particular with its almost infinite torque and directional stability. The brakes do what brakes did in the 70s - powerful pedal action and good contact with the foot sensor to prevent locked front tires.

Recommendation

Italian sports cars - with the exception of Ferrari - have been somewhat neglected in recent decades. This has changed since 2018 and the Italian exotics are attracting more and more attention. The De Tomaso Pantera GTS is not only an exciting car, it is also a safe investment in the classic car market.