This is something you don’t often see, a stunning 1972 DeTomaso Pantera (2164), finished in a beautiful shade of red over a pristine-looking black leather interior. The DeTomaso Pantera was produced from 1971 to 1993 with just around 7,260 total units built total for the world. The Pantera, Italian for “panther”, debuted in Modena in March of 1970, and was later presented at the 1970 New York Motor Show a few weeks after. In 1971 De Tomaso and Ford forged an agreement that ultimately introduced the Italian supercar to the US market, however, Argentine-born racing driver, businessman, and founder of the De Tomaso Automobili (previously known as De Tomaso Modena SpA), Alejandro De Tomaso, retained the rights to market the Pantera in Europe. American Lincoln-Mercury dealers primarily sold the Pantera model from 1972 to 1975, and following this agreement De Tomaso and Ford had, De Tomaso continued to manufacture the Pantera in very low numbers into the early 1990s. A number of notable designers were involved in the creation process of the Pantera throughout the models history. Most notably, Italian car designer, Marcello Gandini, and American automobile designer, Tom Tjaarda played major roles in the styling for the Pantera. Importantly, as seen here on this example, 1972 was the final year for the This is the last year for the desirable chrome bumpers and Pantera’s like this one are becoming increasingly difficult to find. Also new for the 1972 model year was an increased advertised top speed of around 160mph, new seat materials, and a a much more aggressive ‘Cobra Jet’ camshaft. Also new was a 5.8 L (351 cu in) four-bolt main Cleveland Engine, which was used with lower compression ratio (from 11:1 to 8.6:1, chiefly to meet US emissions standards). Approximately 5262 Panteras were imported into the US by Ford from 1971 until 1974.
How many made? Approximately 2061 Panteras produced for the 1972 model year
Engine: 5.8 L (351 cu in) four-bolt main Cleveland Engine (new for 1972 model year)
Debut: Modena, Italy in March 1970
Top Speed: around 160mph
0-60mph: around 5.5 seconds
Photo Credit: @am_media_ny
Research: @rarecarsonly
1972 DeTomaso Pantera
11.02.2025
DeTomaso