2015 July

The Pantera was a collaboration between Ford and Detomaso in the early 70’s. Henry Ford Jr. was chasing Ferrari at Lemans with the GT 40 cars and in 69′ his GT40’s came in first second and third. Ford wanted to build a car on the GT platform but for street use. Using the same ZF trans-axle and his new 351 ci Cleveland engine, the Pantera was born. The mid engine design and independent suspension gave the car great handling and balance.Four wheel disc brakes, and coil over shocks, all race car inspired created a true super-car. Around 4500 Panteras were built between 1971 and 74. The gas shortage and collision bumper requirements of the day ended Fords involvement, and the rights to the car were sold back to Mr. Detomaso. The car was built in limited numbers until the early 90’s but not imported to the US. A few grey market cars were brought in skirting import regulations, but the Pantera had run it’s course. Today, these cars are a great value for true performance sports cars. They are easy to repair and parts are still available through many vendors.We pulled the motor to get to the tank. Found rust behind tank. I kinda knew it was there. We are fixing it now, getting ready for the new 408 CI motor! Just painted the engine bay area. Looks like candy, well it is to me! The 408 is ready! It was run on the stand before intalling. It is all back together Wow what a beast. The new motor pulls hard and blisters the tires all the way to 6800 when it hits the rev limit. It drives real nice around town… sounds like trumpents from heaven…but when I hold it down.. at 4 g it really does break the tires loose… better be pointed straight ahead…. I’m afraid to hold it down into the upper part of third gear because it is going too fast to have the tires slipping.. for ME! It had to be streetable. 10-1 I can’t run race gas.. It runs great on 93 oct.. I used a bottle of oct boost to start with… but I run the timing kinda high and it still don’t “run on” when I shut her down. How do you like the new mirrors?