A classic blend of Italian design and American muscle is set to take center stage at the Henderson Collector Motor Series Auction on May 3, 2025, at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum. Among the standout consignments is a 1972 DeTomaso Pantera, VIN THPNMRO2610, a car known for redefining exotic car accessibility in the early 1970s.
The DeTomaso Pantera emerged from a rare transatlantic collaboration, pairing Italian styling by Ghia with Ford’s legendary 351 Cleveland V8. Introduced in 1971, the Pantera was designed to offer the performance and styling of European exotics with the reliability and serviceability of American powertrains. With its mid-mounted engine, sleek wedge profile, and raw performance, the Pantera quickly gained attention—particularly among American enthusiasts.
The 1972 model represented a key evolution in the Pantera’s brief but impactful production run. That year, Ford and DeTomaso implemented critical updates to improve drivability, including revised engine tuning, upgraded cooling systems, and more refined interior appointments. Still, the Pantera retained its visceral edge: the 351 cubic inch V8 produced approximately 330 horsepower, enabling 0–60 mph in just over five seconds—a blistering pace for its time.
While DeTomaso built roughly 7,200 Panteras from 1971 to 1974 under Ford’s distribution agreement, many were altered or lost to time. As a result, surviving, well-documented examples—particularly early models like this one—have become prized collector items.
Collectors and enthusiasts will gather at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, a fitting backdrop for a car that exemplifies engineering innovation and design daring. The Pantera joins a roster of rare and vintage vehicles headed to auction on May 3.
Henderson Auction’s Collector Motor Series sale will be held at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum on Saturday, May 3, 2025 starting at 6:30pm. The Barber Museum and racing facilities have welcomed millions of hardcore vintage car and motorcycle enthusiasts from around the world making this venue the perfect backdrop to showcase your vehicles. We are excited that our May 3, 2025, auction will be held during the Children’s of Alabama INDY GRAND PRIX this year!