The 1972 De Tomaso Pantera Group 4 represents the rawest expression of the Italian-American hybrid philosophy. While the standard Pantera was a sophisticated grand tourer, the Group 4 was a purpose-built weapon for the racetrack. Only 14 of these factory-produced monsters were ever constructed to meet demanding international competition standards. This specific example, chassis 2858, carries a storied racing history that spans from the Targa Florio to recent podiums at Le Mans. It has been meticulously restored to its famous light blue Achilli Motors livery, combining vintage aesthetics with modern reliability. Consequently, this vehicle is not merely a museum piece but a fully sorted competitor for the world’s most prestigious historic events. It stands as a testament to De Tomaso’s ambition to conquer the global sports car stage.
Weight Reduction and Competition Engineering
Engineering a competitive racer required the factory to shed massive amounts of weight from the standard steel chassis. This 1972 De Tomaso Pantera Group 4 utilizes aluminium for the doors, bonnet, and engine lid to save precious kilograms. Every window consists of lightweight plexiglass, and the interior was stripped of all non-essential luxury components. These drastic measures resulted in a total weight of just 1,100 kilograms, a full 320 kilograms lighter than the road car. A rigid roll cage was integrated into the cabin to provide essential structural stiffness and driver safety during high-speed cornering. Furthermore, the suspension features adjustable Koni shock absorbers to allow for precise tuning on various European circuits. These changes created a nimble platform capable of challenging the established giants of GT racing.
Legendary Racing History and Ownership
Chassis 2858 debuted in the 1000 Kilometres of Monza and notably qualified for the final sanctioned Targa Florio in 1973. Throughout the mid-seventies, famous drivers like Gabriele Gottifredi and Renzo Zorzi pushed this 1972 De Tomaso Pantera Group 4 to its limits. After its initial retirement, the car was updated to 1976 specifications by the factory for its second long-term owner. It spent decades in Italy before moving to the French racing scene where it continued to prove its exceptional mechanical durability. Under current ownership, the car secured a class victory at the 2022 Le Mans Classic and finished second overall in the 2025 Tour Auto. This continuous competition record proves the car has always been maintained to the highest performance standards.
Braking Performance and Track Reliability
Slowing down a high-horsepower machine requires significant hardware, which is why the factory fitted massive Girling brakes with vented discs. This 1972 De Tomaso Pantera Group 4 relies on these robust components to provide consistent stopping power during grueling endurance races. The cooling system was also optimized to handle the extreme thermal loads generated on the track during summer events. Utilizing modern technology during its most recent overhaul, the team improved the car’s overall reliability without sacrificing its historic character. It currently holds a valid FIA Historic Technical Passport, making it eligible for the most exclusive racing series in Europe. For the collector who intends to drive, few vehicles offer such a seamless transition from the paddock to the podium.
Technical Specifications and Performance Profile
This 1972 De Tomaso Pantera Group 4 is powered by a modified Ford 351 Cleveland V-8 engine producing 470 horsepower. It inhales through four Weber carburetors, providing a mechanical soundtrack that is truly unrivaled on the starting grid. The drivetrain utilizes a heavy-duty five-speed manual gearbox, and the sale includes a spare rebuilt unit for long-term racing support. Power reaches the tarmac through period-correct wheels, with four additional spares included to assist with trackside tire management. The 470-horsepower output combined with an 1,100-kilogram curb weight results in an incredible power-to-weight ratio for a vintage GT car. These specifications confirm that the Pantera remains a formidable threat in the Peter Auto and Tour Auto series. It is a high-performance machine that rewards a skilled hand behind the wheel.
Summary of a Factory Competition Icon
The 1972 De Tomaso Pantera Group 4 is an elite member of the 14 factory-built racers that redefined the brand’s capabilities. Its documented ownership and successful modern racing results make it a blue-chip investment for any serious motorsport collector. The light blue Achilli Motors livery is instantly recognizable and honors the car’s early days in the Italian Group 4 Championship. Because it is accompanied by an FIA HTP and significant spares, it is ready for immediate entry into the 2026 racing season. It represents the perfect marriage of a reliable American V-8 and a sophisticated Italian racing chassis. This Pantera is a rare survivor that continues to dominate the world’s most famous circuits. It is a true champion of the historic racing circuit.
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Source: rmsothebys.com
