1974 DeTomaso Pantera GTS

1974 De Tomaso Pantera GTS Description:

1974 Pantera GTS, one of 97 manufactured for the USA

29,900 miles

HISTORY. This car is one of only 97 1974 USA-spec GTS model Panteras.The fender flares, steering wheel, and two tone paint scheme and GTS badging are unique to the GTS.Panteras were among the fastest production cars at the time with a 5.5 second 0-60 time, 13 second ¼ mile and 150 MPH top speed.In particular, by 1974, the Pantera had evolved with many improvements for reliability.Designed as a sporting upscale touring car, air conditioning, power disc brakes and power windows were standard.

In the late 1960s, Ford was in need of a high-performance GT to combat the likes of Ferrari and Corvette and assist in generating additional dealership traffic for its mainstream product lines. De Tomaso Automobili was relying on Ford for engines used in the Mangusta and had purchased the Ghia design and coach-building concern. After Ford's failed attempt to purchase Ferrari, the Ford-De Tomaso marriage seemed quite natural, so a business / purchase arrangement was consummated and work began on a new mid-engined GT. It would be marketed in the U.S. by Ford's Lincoln-Mercury division.

Ghia stylist Tom Tjaarda styled the new machine, and Giam Paolo Dallara was engaged for chassis and production design. It was conceived with a full monocoque chassis layout and built around Ford's then-new 5.7 liter (351 cu. in.) "Cleveland" V-8. The new V-8 was mated to a ZF fully synchronized 5-speed transaxle with limited slip, and rated at 310 horsepower (SAE Gross, 1971 trim).

OWNERSHIP CHAIN This GTS has lived almost its entire history in the San Francisco bay area.I am only the fourth owner of this very cool automobile.The first owner from new had it until about 1994. Original correspondence signed by Alejandro de Tomaso confirms the enthusiasm of the original owner.The second owner took great care of the GTS through 1999.The third owner enjoyed this Pantera through 2016.

I have been a car guy forever.I have owned and raced and toured genuine 289 and 427 Cobras.I've owned several Shelby GT 350's and raced in SCCA, NASA and vintage racing.Why sell my Pantera?I'm going to do some touring in a 1950's sports car, so something has to go.

CONDITION This is an extremely stock automobile.The top paint appears to be original and the sides appear to have been tastefully repainted some time ago.The interior appears to be stock with the exception of the seats having received some internal padding replacement. Full set of books, manuals, records, original inflatable spare tire, tools and pouch are included.

Check out the newly published Hagerty guide to buying a Pantera!

https://www.hagerty.com/articles-videos/articles/2019/02/27/de-tomaso-pantera-buyers-guide?utm_source=SFMC&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Daily_News_Monday_March_4

Hagerty notes that the later Panteras came with much better engine cooling, electrics and rust proofing.This GTS represents the very latest and greatest from the factory.Instead of no drainage for rocker panels and rear quarter panel areas, the GTS's are well engineered for rust prevention.The engine cooling is excellent.The electrics are good.

There is some crazing on the original paint on the top of the car.

Very light surface rust can be observed on the springs and suspension arms.Otherwise, the undercarriage is clean, original and in excellent condition.I debated about painting the surface rust but decided that the next owner would know just what they are getting and whether it bothers them or not.

PRICING. Hagerty notes that prices have been moving up on Panteras.The call for a 30% premium for a GTS.#1 @$165K, #2@$132K.I believe that this GTS is above a #2 condition plus it has low mileage.

The original Campagnolo magnesium wheels are on the car.

Original 351 Cleveland engine

Original ZF 5 speed

Other maintenance items:

2016-2019

Refurbish original GTS steering wheel

Fuel sender unit, headlight switch

Replaced front trunk carpet

Valve cover gaskets

Coolant hoses, fluids replaced, fan belts

Fuel filter

Radial TA tires P205/60R15,P255/60/15

Note:replaced carburetor and alternator come with the car

1990-1999

Emergency flasher switch

Clutch disc, pressure plate, t/o bearing

Upgraded shift rod

Radiator service