1972 De Tomaso Pantera Group 4
1972 De Tomaso Pantera Group 4
Brand
De Tomaso
Year
1972
Country
Italy
Generation
Pantera Group 4
1972 De Tomaso Pantera Group 4
Brand
De Tomaso
Year
1972
Country
Italy
Generation
Pantera Group 4
About this car
Discover the history
The 1972 De Tomaso Pantera Group 4 represents an evolution of the original Pantera, designed to compete in high-level motorsport events under Group 4 regulations. De Tomaso built this version to meet growing customer demand for a more race-oriented version of the Pantera. Only 14 Group 4 Panteras were ever produced, making them exceptionally rare. These cars were developed with substantial modifications for racing, including extensive weight-saving measures. Parts of the body, such as the front lid, doors, and rear engine cover, were replaced with aluminum components. Numerous chassis modifications, such as adding bevelled holes, were implemented to further reduce the car’s overall weight. The goal was to enhance performance without deviating too much from the car’s road-going origins.
The Pantera Group 4 was powered by a robust 5.7-liter Ford V8 engine, delivering significant power, paired with a manual gearbox. Its chassis improvements and powerful engine gave the car the potential to challenge dominant competitors like Porsche in the racing world. Initially, the Pantera had some success, managing to compete in European circuits and even secure victories. The car’s design, both mechanically and aerodynamically, allowed it to perform effectively in endurance races, with its racing pedigree extending to notable competitions such as the Giro d’Italia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
One of the most notable examples of the Pantera Group 4 is chassis #2858, which had a distinguished racing career. It was first raced by Achilli Motors of Milan, driven by notable drivers such as Gabriele Gottifredi and Renzo Zorzi, and achieved a respectable 8th place overall in the 1974 Giro d’Italia. In the late 1970s, the car underwent significant upgrades to meet post-1976 Group 4 regulations, receiving changes to its wheel arches and other performance-focused adjustments. It was raced extensively in Italian and world championship rounds in the early 1980s by Marco “Spiffero” Curti. Later, the car enjoyed a second life in historic racing, participating in prestigious events like the Le Mans Classic and Tour Auto.
Today, the De Tomaso Pantera Group 4 remains a coveted piece of motorsport history, appreciated for its blend of Italian design and American muscle, its racing success, and its rarity. Its role in endurance racing and its continued presence in historic events highlight its lasting impact on the racing world.
