1971 De Tomaso Mangusta – The Big Picture

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If you know of De Tomaso, it’s probably because of the Pantera. The mid-engine, rear-drive sports car was a wonderful combination of Italian design and Detroit muscle. The body was by Carrozzeria Ghia, the powerplant was Ford’s V8. It was De Tomaso’s most popular car, with more than 7,000 made from 1971 to 1992.

Until recently, I was unfamiliar with the De Tomaso Mangusta. And that’s a shame because it is a beautiful car that (as others have argued) makes the case that car design peaked in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Powered by a 296 bhp Ford V8 with bodywork by Giorgetto Giugiaro, it looks like a proper supercar, with unusual Gullwing engine covers. “Mangusta” is Italian for mongoose, an animal known for killing Cobras. A deal gone bad with Carroll Shelby is the supposed reason for the name.

Here are the De Tomaso Mangusta details via Petrolicious:

Years Built: 1967-1971Total Produced: 401Engine: 4.7L-5.0L Ford V8Power Produced: 221hp-306hpTorque Produced: 300lb-ftCoachwork Design: Giorgetto GiugiaroCurb Weight: 2,612lbsPrice When New: $11,500

The version seen below is up for sale Classic Driver asking €298,500 ($324,350).

Now all you need is a mechanic that knows De TOmaso’s and some room in your garage…