DeTomaso Mailing List: May 98, Message #101

The first part of the packet that I received from the PCNC
was the checkout outline, I previously posted.  The next part
was a brief history and differences between the years or model
types...

=========

Although the Pantera can be viewed as an exotic product, the guiding
concept comes from an evolution rather than from a revolution, based as
it is on the experience gained from Guigiaro's Mangusta.
American Tom Tjaarda was responsible for the body styling.  Born and
educated in Detroit but working in Italy, Tjaarda was successful in
creating a striking sports car in the true Italian tradition. 
Previously, during his four years with Pininfarina, he has worked on the
Ferrari 365 California.
In 1968 Tjaarda had taken over as head of styling at Ghia, where the
Pantera was conceived.  Although it's design had been created without
the the help of a wind tunnel initially, later tests by Ford in their
Dearborn, Michigan wind tunnels showed that the shape and design were
extreamly aerodynamic.  The very first cars had the low drag coefficient
of .29.
With the ample availability of power, the slippery body gave the Pantera
a zero-to-sixty time of around seven seconds (slightly over six seconds
for the European version) and a top speed of 150 plus mph.
The Campagnolo wheels were fifteen inches in diameter, eight inches wide
in the rear, and seven inches wide in the front.  Tires were by
Michelin, 185 and 215.
The price in 1971 was at $9,995 (Note-In 1971 a Ferrari Daytona sold for
$22,000, a Porsche 911S Targa sold for $10,380 and a Corvette 350 sold
for $5,472).

The Models...

=========

To be continued...