Superb 1972 De Tomaso Pantera Pré-L, finished in metallic Blue Sera with a black interior. Produced in 2,260 examples between 1971 and 1972, it represents the first vision of the Italo-American coupé imagined by Alejandro de Tomaso: a sharp Italian design combined with the power of the American Ford V8.

Delivered new in the United States in 1972, the car was imported to France in August 1995 by its first French owner and registered following official approval for French road use. It changed hands in July 2009 before being acquired in September 2019 by its current owner, who subsequently oversaw the restoration work.

A complete restoration, both body and mechanical, was carried out to a high standard. The car was based on a very sound structure; the chassis, free from deformation, was inspected and protected with a fine stone-chip coating that allows its condition to remain clearly visible. Originally yellow, the car was refinished in Blue Sera, a period-correct shade also used by Maserati. The 8-inch front and 10-inch rear wheels are fitted with new AVON tyres (215/60R15 and 295/50R15).

The mechanical components have been fully rebuilt. The Ford Cleveland 351 cu in V8 (5,752 cc, correct four-bolt main block) was extensively reworked:

• Block sleeved
• Crankshaft reground
• Performance pistons and bearings
• Flywheel resurfaced
• High-volume oil pump
• Fully balanced assembly
• Cylinder heads reconditioned with new valves, performance camshaft and valvetrain components.
• The original HOLLEY carburettor has been replaced with an EDELBROCK 630 CFM unit.
• Electronic ignition has been fitted.
• Custom stainless-steel exhaust system retains the original manifolds.

• The ZF-25/2 gearbox has been serviced with a new clutch; the transmission, steering, suspension and braking systems have all been comprehensively overhauled.
• The cooling system has been restored and upgraded (radiator, stainless lines, water pump, high-flow fans).

• The interior remains close to original specification: period seats and carpets in good condition, refurbished door panels, correct steering wheel (a smaller wheel supplied), and speedometer in km/h.

The car is accompanied by a substantial file of invoices and a comprehensive photographic record of the restoration. An appraisal report dated December 2023 values the car at €140,000.

Full photo dossier available on request.