The combination of fiery Italian design and far-reaching American Ford power is an unlikely, but highly successful story. In 1971, Alejandro de Tomaso managed to convince the CEO of America’s biggest motor company to import and sell the De Tomaso Pantera – developed and designed as the first affordable mid-engined exotic sports car. What sounded like a crazy plan turned out to be massively successful, with a sub-model becoming Road Test magazine’s Import Car of the Year in 1973. By the time import finished in 1975, over 5,000 cars had been sold in the U.S.

Offered here is one such rare import, beautifully finished in Pantera Orange. As a post-1972 model, this Pantera L is equipped with the black nose guard – fitted to conform to the stricter federal bumper standards of 1974. In order to conform to the new emission standards, a new Ford 351 “four-bolt-main” Cleveland engine was fitted, along with a new factory exhaust header. Other engine changes guaranteed a more reliable vehicle.

This Pantera has been found to be largely original, with an original interior, tires, and suspension. Recent work totaling $17,000, including fitting a new gas tank, water pump, carburetors, and brake master cylinder, ensured that the Pantera is running perfectly and is ready for its next owner. With a top speed of 160 mph, the only difficulty will be finding a place to top it out.

Stylish, fast, and backed by Ford, in the 1970s it would have been hard to turn this car down. Perfect for anyone who made that mistake back then, or just misses the one they sold on, it would be hard to find a De Tomaso as well maintained and original as this Pantera.