Basic information and history

The early-1970s De Tomaso Pantera is a classic mid‑engined car that blends Italian design with an American powertrain. The model is known for its steel monocoque, distinctive proportions and robust transaxle, which has made it appreciated both on road and track. Model year 1972 sits early in production and belongs to the era often sought after by enthusiasts.

This example is an extensive restomod with competition ambition, assembled with high‑quality components according to the seller. The car was imported from Germany over 30 years ago. A previous owner is said to have had health issues, which meant that after completion the car was stored poorly for an extended period. The result is cosmetic issues on several surfaces, despite much being new or refurbished. According to the seller, the car is essentially 'as new' in the sense that vital items such as bearings and bushings are not considered to require attention, but it needs a full detailing and recommissioning before driving. The car must not be driven in its current condition without the essential systems being gone through.

Equipment and options

• Restomod build with a race focus
• Chevrolet LS2/LS3 engine according to the seller
• Custom intake, headers and standalone engine management (ECU)
• Center‑lock wheels
• Brakes from a Porsche Cup car
• Bilstein racing dampers, calibrated for this car
• Carbon‑fiber front hood
• Plastic windows
• Body modifications, including lights and wheel arches
• Roll cage

Modifications and improvements: Beyond the drivetrain, the body has undergone extensive changes. The braking system is upgraded with components from a Porsche Cup car and the chassis is fitted with specially calibrated Bilstein dampers. The engine was built in the USA with a bespoke intake, headers and an aftermarket ECU to harmonize with the package. The car is fundamentally set up for track use.

Condition

Body and exterior: The car has been fully repainted, including the underside and interior surfaces. The paint is about 20 years old and shows color variations on the doors. Storage has been subpar, so a thorough polish is recommended and a respray can be considered if an entirely even finish is desired. The front carbon‑fiber hood has damage from something having fallen onto it. The body is modified with adjusted lights, wheel arches and a roll cage. Glass is in good condition, while the plastic windows are sensitive to handling. Chrome, trim, lamp lenses and emblems are said to be new or in good condition.

Interior: The interior is stripped in race trim with bare metal in the roof area. The seats show wear on the entry bolsters. The dashboard has holes for the cage but is otherwise described as in good condition. Steering wheel, controls and switches are in good condition but need detailing. Door panels and sill trims are generally worn.

Tyres and wheels: Center‑lock wheels. The tyres are said to be good in terms of tread but are aged and should be replaced before driving.

Mechanics and functions: According to the seller, the engine has covered approximately 1,500 kilometers from new but should be inspected before starting due to a long period of inactivity, about 10 years. The engine was built in the USA with a special intake, headers and ECU. The brakes are described as very good but have surface rust from standing. The gearbox is said to be in very good condition. The Fidanza‑brand clutch slips under full acceleration, attributed to a sluggish hydraulic system and high torque; the system should be checked and the clutch may need replacement. Most functions work according to the seller, but the car should not be driven until a full review of the essential systems has been carried out.

Service history

The last known service was carried out about 10 years ago with replacement of oils, spark plugs and related consumables. According to the seller there is a substantial amount of documentation, receipts and history with the car, including records for the extensive build and the bodywork with full repaint.

Import from Germany took place over 30 years ago. The car has not been recently inspected and needs to be inspected before use.

Summary

A 1972 De Tomaso Pantera built as a restomod with a focus on track use. The package includes a Chevrolet LS2/LS3 engine with aftermarket components, brakes from a Porsche Cup car, center‑lock wheels, Bilstein racing dampers and body modifications including a carbon‑fiber hood. After inadequate storage, the car requires a full detailing and technical recommissioning before it can be used. For those seeking a Pantera with a modernized drivetrain and serious hardware, this car offers an interesting foundation to finish to one’s own taste and usage profile.