The De Tomaso Pantera GTS might not be a car that all automotive fans are familiar with, especially the younger generation. The De Tomaso Italian brand produced this car from 1971 to 1992 and since no more have been in motion. It's sad, especially as the Pantera was such a remarkable sports car.
However, the halt in production means that the Pantera GTS remains special and to this day, incredibly expensive. The sports car boasts a lot of impressive features from its body kit to its design.
On that note, here's everything that we love about the De Tomaso Pantera GTS.
The Obvious Pantera Upgrades
After the first De Tomaso Pantera GTS was born in 1971, yet for public purchase in 1972, the GTS model saw numerous improvements over the standard Pantera. Mechanical changes include a higher compression V8 engine, new vent disc brakes, a new intake manifold, and free-flow exhaust. The styling of the GTS also saw updates, most notably black trim, larger wheels, and flared wheel arches.
The original model features a 5.8-liter Ford Cleveland V8 engine, which could churn out a maximum of 330-hp. The ride was not very demanding in terms of gear changes, which was ideal for a relaxed sports car driver. Its high torque meant that the Ford engine reduces the need for excessive gear changing at low speeds.
The Quirky Design
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The De Tomaso Pantera GTS was part Ford and part De Tomaso, which a lot of people did not realize at the time. In fact, the car was 80% Ford from its design, specifications, and kit. The only thing that Ford did not own was its badge.
Nonetheless, the designers did a fantastic job as it makes the Pantera GTS unique. The original designer of the GTS was the Italian design firm Carrozzeria Ghia's American-born designer Tom Tjaarda. Tom was later replaced by Mangusta. However, this model was designed by the famous Tom Tjaarda himself. This design features a chassis of a steel monocoque design.
Externally, the bodywork is pretty distinguishable. Its long front and short height accentuated its pointy edges and made its body-hugging seats look rather plush. Furthermore, another distinguishable feature was the T-shaped symbol that the brand used by De Tomaso's Argentinian cattle ranching ancestors, as well as a version of the Argentinean flag turned on its side. This all took inspiration from the company's founder and Argentinian-born Alejandro De Tomaso.
Another key feature of the design was its wheels, which appear rather large in comparison to its small body. The GTS, in particular, features considerably wider wheels, a more aggressive steering rack setup, ventilated disc brakes, adjusted spring rates and gear ratios, and conspicuous matte black body elements.
The only disappointment about the design of the GTS was that, seeing as it was an early design of the De Tomaso brand, the materials used were not of the best quality. They were somewhat cheap and prone to rust, which meant that the bodywork is not long-lasting. Now the original GTS models are over half a century old, they would likely not look shiny or healthy unless they have seen a lot of care and maintenance. Overall, it was unique in design and is something that everyone can appreciate about the GTS model.
The Limited Production
Although some productions that come to a halt can be frustrating, this one is pretty special. The reason being is that the Italian sports car wasn't the biggest hit. But, the halt in production made it more sought-after, which means that it can now get the love that it deserves.
In total, throughout its 21 years of production, there were 7,260 models of the Pantera GTS made. It would likely prove difficult to get your hands on an original model now, especially one with low mileage and in great condition. However, there are some floating around the market from time to time.
Today, the average price of a De Tomaso Pantera GTS is around $126,000. It isn't the cheapest vintage sports car of all time, but its price justifies its limited quantity. Even at the time of release, the Pantera GTS was not cheap to buy, let alone produce. Due to the 1970s oil crisis, the era of the muscle car was extinguished before it'd even hit its apex in America. Italian's were a little more fortunate, but this crisis did affect the automotive market worldwide.
Overall, there is a lot to love about the De Tomaso Pantera GTS. Although the stock was available in small numbers at the time of production, it made for a special car for the modern-day market. Its unique design and great specification make this car highly desirable for any Italian sports car fan.