1974 DeTomaso Pantera
Overview
Under the rear clamshell lies a blueprinted and fully rebuilt 351ci Cleveland V8, completed by Thoms Machine of Deer Park, NY, paired to a ZF 5-speed manual transmission with fresh synchros and a custom McLeod 3-leaf clutch and flywheel—a one-off assembly with a six-month lead time. All major mechanical systems have been addressed: suspension bushings and shocks replaced, cooling system upgraded with a heavy-duty radiator and twin 10-blade fans, and brake and clutch lines re-plumbed with stainless steel. The car runs at a cool 120°F and has logged just 50 test miles since the engine rebuild. Notably, the vehicle sits on four brand-new tires and retains its magnesium sport wheels. A fresh oil change was performed post-break-in, though the drain plug gasket is recommended for replacement.
Further enhancements include a completely new A/C system (not yet charged), rebuilt pedal assembly, new brake booster, fully restored wiper mechanism with Bowden cable, and all new weather seals throughout. As with many hand-built Italian exotics of this era, the Pantera’s analog charm comes with a unique and raw driving experience. This is a standout example of a mid-engine 1970s icon—restored with diligence, upgraded with intent, and ready for its next chapter on the concours lawn or open road.
Features & Options
Historical Overview
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Production Date: April 1974 – Ghia Operations, Vignale, Italy
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Original Dealer: Wall Lincoln-Mercury, Shrewsbury, NJ
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Port of Entry: Newark, NJ
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DSO Code: 16 (Philadelphia)
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Factory Paint: Blue – 1 of only 69 produced in this color for this DSO
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Sold: February 5, 1975
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Original Equipment Included:
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351-4V Cleveland V8
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ZF 5-Speed Manual Transmission
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Air Conditioning
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Magnesium Sport Wheels
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Power Windows, Tinted Glass
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Full Instrumentation, 4-Wheel Power Disc Brakes
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Service Records
Mechanical Restoration - Reported by the Seller:
Engine & Drivetrain
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Fully rebuilt and blueprinted by Thoms Machine (Deer Park, NY)
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New rings and internal components
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~50 miles of post-rebuild testing
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Custom McLeod 3-leaf clutch and flywheel (6-month build time)
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ZF transmission rebuilt with new synchros
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All locks rebuilt (ignition, trunk, doors) with new key cylinders
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New brake booster, clutch cylinders, and rebuilt pedal box
Cooling & HVAC
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New heavy-duty radiator with dual high-efficiency 10-blade fans
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Running temperature: ~120°F
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Entire A/C system is new (hoses, compressor, fittings) – not yet charged
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Heater, fans, and vent louvers are fully operational
Suspension, Brakes, and Exhaust
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All-new suspension bushings, shocks, engine and trans mounts
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Rebuilt brake calipers, original rotors retained
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All pressure lines replaced, including stainless brake and clutch lines
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Sensor wiring looms retained (brake pads with sensors no longer available)
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Custom stainless exhaust on pivoting seals with spring-loaded flange bolts
Wheels & Tires
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Four brand-new tires installed
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Original magnesium sport wheels retained
Body & Paint
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Bare-metal respray using full PPG system:
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Sanded, cleaned, epoxy primed
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Primer surfacer applied and block-sanded
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Finished in Ford Grabber Blue with PPG DC3000 clear coat
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Front and rear lids finished in matte (using same clear with flattener)
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Work completed in a hot paint booth, approx. 40 labor hours (5-person team)
Ownership History & Provenance
Known Shortcomings
Sotheby's Motorsport presents this auction in partnership with the seller. This 1974 DeTomaso Pantera shows wear consistent with its age and mileage according to a seller’s disclosure. Please review the entire document by clicking "Seller's Disclosure" above.
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A pre-purchase inspection on a hydraulic lift is strongly encouraged by the seller, especially for first-time Pantera owners. Please click the "Contact Seller" button to reach out directly to the seller.
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Please note this restoration was performed by the seller, all items described herein were reported directly by the seller and no written documentation is available. Photos of the restoration process can be viewed in the "Extras" gallery above. Verification of all work performed is the responsibility of the bidder.
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Oil drain plug gasket requires replacement
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A/C system is complete but not charged or tested
Please click the “Contact Seller” button to reach out with any condition-specific questions. This car is sold where-is, as-is, and bidder is responsible for all due diligence regarding vehicle condition.
Items included in the Sale
- Factory certificate of authenticity
- Deluxe Marti Report
- Car cover
- Battery charger
- 2 key fobs
- Photos from a prior refurbishment or restoration