@Straightspeedphoto : De Tomaso Pantera Group 4

Due to gothrough RM Sothbey's auction in Paris later this month, this superb example of a De Tomaso Pantara Group 4, estimated to sell for between €300k and €350k

Unveiled in January 1972, the De Tomaso Pantera Group 4 was borne out of customer request, with 14 examples produced. The doors, bonnet, and engine lid were aluminium, all windows were plexiglass, and a roll cage cocooned a pared-back interior. These measures saved 320 kilograms for a total weight of just 1,100 kilograms. The double-wishbone suspension was modified and adjustable Koni shock absorbers fitted. Meanwhile, large Girling brakes featuring vented discs helped slow the 470 horsepower produced by a modified Ford 351 Cleveland V-8, which inhaled through four Weber carburettors.

Leaving the factory in the classic red-and-black Pantera paint scheme, chassis number 2858 was completed in April 1972 and sold new to Achilli Motors. Reportedly the second example produced, the car was changed by Achilli Motors to a vibrant blue. Run from 1973 to 1975 in the Italian Group 4 Championship, this Pantera debuted in the 1000 Kilometres of Monza and qualified for the 1973 Targa Florio.

Retiring after 1975, chassis 2858 remained in storage with Achilli Motors until sold to the second owner, Marco "Spiffero" Curti, in late 1979. He sent the car back to De Tomaso to be rebuilt for the updated 1976 Group 4 specifications. Spiffero raced this Pantera from 1980 to 1983 before parting ways in 1998, with the vehicle subsequently passing through several European racers until being acquired by the current owner.

Returning the car to its Achilli Motors livery, the Pantera was repainted light blue and was the subject of a complete overhaul, utilising modern technology to optimise its performance and reliability. Entered in the 2022 Le Mans Classic, it finished 1st in its class and in the 2025 Tour Auto, it finished 2nd overall, demonstrating the exceptional qualities of this Pantera. The car is accompanied by a spare rebuilt gearbox, four wheels, and other parts.

Boasting known ownership throughout, this Group 4 Pantera presents a wonderful opportunity for a collector looking to compete in historic racing events across the continent.