That It Factor The De Tomaso Pantera
Some cars are more than machines—they’ve got that undefinable "it" factor. As true petrolheads, we know the search for a car with that X factor can take years, but when you find one, it’s like striking gold. That’s exactly what happened when Greg Parton stumbled upon a one-owner 1972 De Tomaso Pantera, lovingly cared for by a retired gentleman in Sandton. The moment he laid eyes on it, Greg knew this iconic beauty had to be part of his collection.
Photos by Jared Govender
What Makes the Pantera Special?
What is it about the Pantera that captivates car enthusiasts? Is it the rarity? In South Africa, you could probably count the number of surviving Panteras on one hand. Or maybe it’s the intoxicating combination of Italian design flair and raw American muscle under the hood. Could it be the price? Back in the day, you could own a Pantera for a fraction of what a Lamborghini Countach or Ferrari 308 would cost. Whatever the reason, this mid-engine marvel has “it” in abundance.
Charm with Character
With greatness, however, comes quirks. The Pantera is infamous for its early-production flaws. Build quality was notoriously hit-or-miss, and overheating was practically a standard feature. But these flaws have become part of its charm, forging a complicated love/hate relationship between the car and its owners. Just ask Elvis Presley, who once shot his Pantera in frustration when it wouldn’t start!
Yet, despite its imperfections, Greg refuses to modify his Pantera. For him, and many other purists, preserving the car’s originality is essential. Every squeak, every quirk, is part of what makes the Pantera special.
Modernizing the Myth
Over the years, many owners have opted to modernize their Panteras, addressing reliability issues and updating styling. De Tomaso themselves joined the trend in the 1980s, adding aggressive front bumpers, flared wheel arches, and Lamborghini-inspired wings to keep the Pantera fresh. However, enthusiasts agree that the original design, as seen in Greg’s car, remains the most desirable version.
The Heart of a Beast
Beneath its angular Italian skin, the Pantera is powered by American muscle. Depending on the production year, the Pantera came equipped with whatever engine Ford’s Mustang lineup used. Greg’s car houses the bulletproof 351 Cleveland, a cast iron powerhouse known for its reliability and performance. Like the legendary Ford GT40, the Pantera boasts a mid-engine layout, the same wheelbase, and a ZF transaxle still produced to this day.
A Vision Restored
Greg’s dedication to authenticity goes beyond admiration. He’s on a mission to restore his Pantera using factory-original parts, down to the last nut and bolt. Some non-original components remain, but they won’t for long—Greg has already ordered containers of parts en route to South Africa.
Pantera Perfection
Calling Greg’s Pantera a “project car” would be misleading. This car is already stunning. Seeing it in person is breathtaking, especially the exhaust pipes provocatively raised at the rear. The 5.7L V8 sits just inches from the driver’s ear, barking with a spine-tingling growl. The interior, though showing its age, retains its charm. While a snug fit for anyone over six feet tall (Greg included), the exposed chrome gear gate and low-slung driving position offer an experience few modern cars can replicate.
Childhood Dreams Realized
For me, seeing this Pantera was a dream come true. It’s a car I grew up idolizing—a poster pinned to my bedroom wall. And in the metal, it didn’t disappoint. Greg’s Pantera isn’t just a car; it’s a living legend, proof that some classics are truly timeless.
What Makes the Pantera Special?
What is it about the Pantera that captivates car enthusiasts? Is it the rarity? In South Africa, you could probably count the number of surviving Panteras on one hand. Or maybe it’s the intoxicating combination of Italian design flair and raw American muscle under the hood. Could it be the price? Back in the day, you could own a Pantera for a fraction of what a Lamborghini Countach or Ferrari 308 would cost. Whatever the reason, this mid-engine marvel has “it” in abundance.
Charm with Character
With greatness, however, comes quirks. The Pantera is infamous for its early-production flaws. Build quality was notoriously hit-or-miss, and overheating was practically a standard feature. But these flaws have become part of its charm, forging a complicated love/hate relationship between the car and its owners. Just ask Elvis Presley, who once shot his Pantera in frustration when it wouldn’t start!
Yet, despite its imperfections, Greg refuses to modify his Pantera. For him, and many other purists, preserving the car’s originality is essential. Every squeak, every quirk, is part of what makes the Pantera special.
Modernizing the Myth
Over the years, many owners have opted to modernize their Panteras, addressing reliability issues and updating styling. De Tomaso themselves joined the trend in the 1980s, adding aggressive front bumpers, flared wheel arches, and Lamborghini-inspired wings to keep the Pantera fresh. However, enthusiasts agree that the original design, as seen in Greg’s car, remains the most desirable version.
The Heart of a Beast
Beneath its angular Italian skin, the Pantera is powered by American muscle. Depending on the production year, the Pantera came equipped with whatever engine Ford’s Mustang lineup used. Greg’s car houses the bulletproof 351 Cleveland, a cast iron powerhouse known for its reliability and performance. Like the legendary Ford GT40, the Pantera boasts a mid-engine layout, the same wheelbase, and a ZF transaxle still produced to this day.
A Vision Restored
Greg’s dedication to authenticity goes beyond admiration. He’s on a mission to restore his Pantera using factory-original parts, down to the last nut and bolt. Some non-original components remain, but they won’t for long—Greg has already ordered containers of parts en route to South Africa.
Pantera Perfection
Calling Greg’s Pantera a “project car” would be misleading. This car is already stunning. Seeing it in person is breathtaking, especially the exhaust pipes provocatively raised at the rear. The 5.7L V8 sits just inches from the driver’s ear, barking with a spine-tingling growl. The interior, though showing its age, retains its charm. While a snug fit for anyone over six feet tall (Greg included), the exposed chrome gear gate and low-slung driving position offer an experience few modern cars can replicate.
Childhood Dreams Realized
For me, seeing this Pantera was a dream come true. It’s a car I grew up idolizing—a poster pinned to my bedroom wall. And in the metal, it didn’t disappoint. Greg’s Pantera isn’t just a car; it’s a living legend, proof that some classics are truly timeless.
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