1974 De Tomaso Pantera L

Highlights

• 22k Miles
• £40k Mechanical Restoration
• 5.8-litre Ford Cleveland V8
• 1974
• 5-speed ZF manual transmission
• Ultra Rare Magnesium Wheels
• 10″ Wide Rear Tyres
• Prototipo Steering Wheel
• Acquired by the current owner from an extensive, climate controlled Texas collection.
• All taxes and NOVA forms complete and UK registered 01/09/2021.

General Description

EXTERIOR

Finished in a traditional shade of Red (V108) the European cross American muscle derived silhouette of this Pantera L looks sensational. Developed with financial backing of Ford the second generation Pantera (the L) saw a number of changes including a chrome full width rear bumper and the original front quarter bumpers which beautifully contrast the red paintwork. In addition to this some more practical changes were made, with the Pantera L featuring a new external fuel filler cap, inverted rear deck lid supports and sealed fasteners for the boot liner.

Overall presentation is very good, especially considering the Pantera is approaching 50 years old, with the body showing no rust with a deep lustre across its angular lines, with just a few spots of paint imperfections visible upon very close inspection. Shut lines and panel gaps are consistent and even, with no signs of any bodywork damage.

INTERIOR

Fully upholstered in vinyl the interior of the Pantera L is also a subtle refinement of its predecessor, with more comfortable seats, a cleaner transmission tunnel design and a relocated fuse board for ease of access.

Presented in its original factory specification this example is upholstered in a stunning black vinyl, spanning the dashboard and doors. The redesigned seats give a low slung driving position with excellent support for both driver and passenger. Adding to the sense of occasion is the magnificent open gate gear stick; with its chrome finish it sits pride of place in the centre of the car. Situated just beyond the driver the black leather Prototipo steering wheel beautifully rounds off the period style of the Pantera.

Benefitting from the mid-engine layout there is plenty storage space at the front and more than adequate space behind the engine to accommodate luggage for longer trans-european road trips.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

The Pantera L is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.8-litre Ford Cleveland V8 engine, which produced 326bhp when new, sent through a 5-speed ZF manual transmission. The top speed was a claimed 159mph and it could accelerate from standstill to 60mph in 5.5sec, according to a road test when the car first launched.

The engine on this car has been subject to extensive mechanical checks as part of its restoration and performs with excellent pressures, performance and no leaks. It has retained all of its original parts, including the matching number engine block and transmission. All this work has been carried out by renowned Pantera Specialists at Three Point Four to a cost of over £40,000.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES

Fitted with extremely rare, original 15″ Campagnolo Magnesium Wheels that were sourced after years of searching, they sit in perfect order after having been fully refurbished in 2019. Brand new tyres have also been fitted all around with Pirelli Cinturato P7 on the front and 10″ wide Avon CR6-ZZ on the rear.

Along with the wheels the brakes and suspension were also overhauled during the Pantera’s restoration, which has left the car with the stopping and handling capabilities to match its mighty 5.8L V8.

About this specific vehicle

HISTORY FILE

This ultra low mileage Pantera L was first delivered in early 1974 where it had 2 owners before it was acquired by the current owner from an extensive, climate controlled Texas collection. All taxes and NOVA forms complete and UK registered 01/09/2021.

Upon docking the car was taken straight to Three Point Four, a leading De Tomaso specialists, who were commissioned to undertake an extensive bodywork, mechanical and engine review. In total over £40k was spent on the Pantera, with the drivetrain, suspension, brakes, bodywork and ancillaries all lavished with attention to bring the car up to standard. The car has been extensively road tested and calibrated with all suspension and ride levels to deliver a superb driving experience. The car has a fresh MOT and service records, its most recent being at Three Point Four in 2020.

Unlike many other examples of Pantera that have been modified, this is a highly original example to its factory specification as confirmed by a Marti report present with the car.

The Pantera comes with V5, invoices/services, 2 keys, original temporary spare wheel and Jack.