Some classics are genuinely a triumph of style over substance, failing to deliver the performance their appearance suggests. However, you can’t level that criticism at this 1977 De Tomaso Pantera GTS. Its engine bay houses a 351ci V8, so that sounds pretty normal. What makes it special is the upgrades, which push the engine to 500hp. It looks fast standing still, and it could match those looks on the open road with a mere tickle of the gas pedal. The Pantera is set for a new home, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Araknid78 for spotting this amazing classic listed here at Mecum Auctions. It is set to cross the block on October 24th in Fort Worth, Texas.
De Tomaso released the Pantera in 1971 as its replacement for the Mangusta. It incorporated many of its predecessor’s design elements into the latest model, including the mid-mounted Ford V8. The biggest change, and one that has caught a few less experienced buyers in later years, was the company’s decision to adopt monocoque construction for the first time. Sadly, De Tomaso’s reputation for rust issues meant that while Mangusta body repairs were often relatively straightforward, similar issues in the Pantera could potentially compromise the car’s structural integrity. That is why any potential Pantera purchase should include an in-person inspection. That said, this 1977 GTS looks like a gem with no apparent problems. Its Bright Red paint holds a mirror shine, and I can’t spot any genuine cosmetic shortcomings. It features a later rear spoiler, but it retains crisp GTS styling, without the enormous fender flares found on the later GT5. The Campagnolo-style alloy wheels give the car an elegant, timeless appearance, and the glass is excellent.
This Pantera started life in Switzerland, and it is unclear when it arrived in North America. It features a mid-mounted 351ci Ford V8, sending its power to the road through a five-speed ZF transaxle. The mechanical package included four-wheel independent suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, and four-wheel power disc brakes. That combination showed De Tomaso focused on a “total” package, but straight-line performance defined the Pantera. The 351 produced 325hp and 344 ft/lbs of torque, with the factory quoting a top speed of 174mph. That figure remains impressive almost fifty years after this car left the factory, but it is also irrelevant in the face of a profound engine update. The motor fitted to this De Tomaso retains its standard bore, but the seller had it stroked to 403ci. They fitted aluminum Trick Flow cylinder heads, and it is now rated at 500hp. This beast has clocked only around 500 miles since the build and is a turnkey proposition. Those who prefer authenticity will welcome the news that the sale includes the original V8.
The Pantera’s interior features seats retrimmed in Black cloth and leather, an upgraded CD stereo, and a three-spoke Momo wheel. Otherwise, it is as it left the factory, including the genuine Italian gauges. It’s extremely tidy, with no major problems or shortcomings. The upholstered surfaces are excellent, there is no significant carpet wear, and the plastic and dash haven’t succumbed to UV exposure. It wins my heart because of the gated shifter, as I’ve always believed that every Italian exotic should feature one.
After Ford ended its collaboration with De Tomaso in 1975, most later Panteras prowling North American roads were privately imported. Our 1977 example is one of those cars, and the seller has transformed an already impressive performer into a fire-breathing beast. It won’t suit most enthusiasts, and the potential auction price when the hammer falls will mean that only a relatively small number of people could potentially give it a new home. The bidding is virtually guaranteed to climb into six-figure territory, but we can only speculate how high it will go. It will be interesting to gauge your guesses and to learn whether any Barn Finders can hit the figure on the head.
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