A 1972 De Tomaso Pantera is drawing growing attention in an online auction as bidding continues with a week remaining. Located in Ocala, Florida, the mid-engine sports car has already generated strong interest, reflecting the enduring appeal of the Italian-American performance hybrid.
The Pantera emerged from a collaboration between Alejandro de Tomaso’s company and Ford Motor Company, blending European design with American V8 power. Introduced to the U.S. market in the early 1970s, the model stood apart from its contemporaries by offering exotic styling and performance while maintaining mechanical simplicity that allowed for easier servicing compared to its European rivals.
This particular example is powered by a mid-mounted 351 cubic inch Ford Cleveland V8 engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission. The setup delivers power to the rear wheels and is supported by a chassis design featuring four-wheel disc brakes, rack-and-pinion steering, and a front-mounted radiator with dual electric fans. The car’s performance credentials are further underscored by its factory instrumentation, including a 180-mph speedometer and an 8,000-rpm tachometer.
Originally built in April 1972, the vehicle was configured with the GT Option Trim Kit, which added features such as air conditioning, magnesium wheels, and tinted glass. Historical records indicate it was used as a Ford executive pool car in the southeastern United States before being sold through a dealership network.
The car has since undergone updates, including a repaint in red and a refreshed interior trimmed in black vinyl. Mechanical work completed within the past 500 miles reportedly included an engine overhaul with performance enhancements, as well as updates to the suspension, braking, and fuel systems. While documentation for the work is not available, the changes suggest an effort to improve drivability and performance.
The Pantera shows approximately 25,800 miles and comes with supporting documentation including a window sticker and Marti Report. Some wear is noted, including minor paint imperfections and aging components, consistent with its age.
With bidding active and interest building, the car represents a notable example of a model that continues to bridge the gap between European styling and American muscle in the collector market. See it here.
