1973 De-Tomaso Pantera
Designer: Tom Tjaarda

Estimate: $130,000 - $155,000

Chassis Number: THPNNK06554
Decoded: T=De Tomaso, H=Modena, Italy Assembly, PN=Pantera, N=1973 Model Year, K=October Manufacture, 06554=Serial Number.
Engine: 5.8L, 351 Ford Cleveland V-8
4 Barrel Carburetor / 330 bhp
Five-Speed ZF Transaxle
Four-Wheel Power Disk Brakes

Odometer: 9,222 Miles Actual

• 9,000 Mile Preservation Car
• No One Has Ever Altered It!
• Incredible Original Condition Throughout

The Model: The De Tomaso Longchamp Pantera was the exciting result of an unlikely collaboration between Allesandro DeTomaso and Ford Motor Company. Ford needed a halo sports car to add zest to its malaise-era product line. With the disappearance of the Cobra from showrooms, the concept of Italian styling with American V8 power made sense to sell alongside Ford’s premium brands. The Pantera developed from DeTomaso’s earlier V8 powered Mangusta. Although the new Pantera suffered from early teething problems, Ford stepped in to make sure the Pantera quickly benefitted from better engineering and finishing. Powered by the 351 Cleveland engine mated to a five-speed ZF transaxle, the Pantera delivered the performance to match its exotic looks. The Pantera quickly matured into a reputable performer. By 1974, burgeoning safety and emissions regulations would have forced a complete redesign of the Pantera’s body and drive train for the US market. Rather than undertake such extensive costs for a low-volume car, Ford ended US sales with the 1974 model year when many considered the Pantera to be at its design and reliability peak.

The Car: This is the one! Decades of owners have upgraded and customized countless Panteras making it nearly impossible to locate a correct unmolested car. For just a few brief minutes Saturday night that will no longer hold true! This is a 9,000 mile preservation Pantera that survives just as it left the Modena factory in late 1973 right down to the original Goodyear Arriva tires. Bought originally in New Jersey in 1974, the original owner relocated with the car to Arizona and used the car sparingly until just a couple of years ago. This car and its provenance are near-perfect. It comes with all the original paperwork, tools, books, and stickers. The only original item missing is the inflator can. The only aftermarket add-ons are floor mats. The Giallo Fly paint still shines and the black leather interior is immaculate. This Pantera features electric windows and air conditioning, unusual features in Italian exotics from this era. The Marti report authenticates this car and is included. This is the pinnacle of collectible Panteras. This opportunity will not come again after the hammer falls Saturday night.