As beautiful and brutal as the De Tomaso Pantera was when it debuted in Modena in March 1970, Alejandro de Tomaso was determined to improve on his Ford 351 Cleveland-powered dream machine. Gremlins found in early production cars were addressed in subsequent versions, but in 1975 Ford stopped importing them into the U.S. Enter Wisconsin businessman and quintessential car guy George Stauffer, who assumed importation of the new Pantera GT5 in the early 1980s. The GT5 was the most aggressive-looking Pantera to date, with fiberglass fender flares, spoilers, and imposing rear wing, all typical of FIA Group 5 practice, and vastly improved performance.

This documented GT5 is an exceptional example that was sold new to the original owner B. Zale in McLean, Virginia. This Pantera is powered by the 351 V-8 mated to a ZF five-speed manual transmission and features power brakes and rack-and-pinion steering. Finished in red, this muscular GT5 looks ready for action with its dramatic fiberglass rear delta wing and beautifully refinished gold Campagnolo wheels. The interior is upholstered in plush black leather and appointed with burlwood trim, black Veglia gauges with green numerals, and black carpeting.

This extraordinary Pantera is recorded in the De Tomaso Pantera Registry and has known ownership history, registration paperwork, as well as various documents from the car’s history. Said documentation includes the Application for Title by the original owner, Bill of Sale to the second owner, copies of previous titles, copy of De Tomaso Certificate of Origin, as well as the EPA and DOT forms upon import into the U.S. in 1985, to name a few.

The Pantera has long inspired spirited driving, and for good reason. The mid-engine placement, powerful drivetrain, flat cornering ability, and driving position ensure the Pantera will not only go extremely fast but do so with a high level of stability and control. This seldom-seen and extremely unique Pantera GT5 presents a rare opportunity to acquire a truly specular supercar.