The 1971 DeTomaso Pantera is a compelling blend of Italian design and American muscle. This specific coupe is especially significant. It is one of the rare pushbutton U.S. market models. Only 75 of these early cars were hand-built by Vignale Coachworks in Turin, Italy. This particular example has undergone a thorough, ground-up restoration. The restoration process included custom modifications originally completed by Hall Pantera.
Ground-Up Restoration and Custom Body
The exterior of the car now features an all-steel Group 4 body. This wider, more aggressive bodywork signals a serious performance focus. The body was finished in new PPG paint in 2025. This ensures a stunning and contemporary appearance. The color is a vibrant Blue, perfectly suiting the exotic lines of the Pantera. This careful exterior work highlights the car’s mid-engine layout.
Early Model Rarities and Exterior Details
The 1971 model is easily distinguished by its early features. The rare pushbutton door handles are the most famous detail. This unique design element adds to its high collectibility. The car rides on Hall Pantera wheels. These custom wheels complement the Group 4 body. Baer brakes, with cross-drilled and slotted rotors, provide modern stopping power.
Supercharged Cleveland Powerhouse
Nestled behind the driver is the heart of this beast: a supercharged 351 cubic-inch Cleveland V-8 engine. This engine was assembled by Joe Martin Racing. Machine work was expertly performed by Basko Racing Engines. The V8 is fitted with a B&M Roots-type supercharger. This forces air into the engine. Holley fuel injection manages the fuel delivery efficiently.
Engine Specs and Performance Details
The supercharged 351 CI V-8 delivers immense power output. This setup creates a massive jump in performance capability. It is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. This gearbox allows the driver full control over the powerband. The torque is routed through a Les Gray prepped ZF-1 polished transaxle. This high-performance transaxle features 4.22:1 gears. Spicer chromed halfshafts handle the power transfer to the wheels. The exhaust gases flow through a performance Hall Pantera exhaust. This results in a truly visceral and aggressive soundtrack. The Pantera is a true, high-speed Italian-American exotic.
Custom Interior and Low Mileage
The cabin features a custom Black interior. This dark upholstery provides a serious, performance-oriented atmosphere. The interior is focused on the driver. The mid-engine layout makes the car feel like a focused machine. The odometer currently reads only 3,006 miles. This is the distance driven since the completion of the comprehensive build.
Driver Controls and Mid-Engine Feel
The 5-speed manual shifter is centrally located. It emphasizes the driver’s connection to the powerful drivetrain. The 1971 DeTomaso Pantera design places the driver low to the ground. This position is characteristic of a mid-engine exotic. The gauges are clear and visible for monitoring performance. The cabin is an optimal environment for serious, spirited driving.
An Exotic Performance Icon
This 1971 DeTomaso Pantera is an exceptional example of the Italian-American hybrid. It is a rare pushbutton model, highly sought by collectors. The supercharged 351 V8 and full Group 4 body ensure top-tier performance. The professional restoration and Hall Pantera upgrades make this car truly unique. This Pantera is a stunning and powerful exotic machine.
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Source: mecum.com
