by A Unique Car with History
The DeTomaso Pantera is a unique and special car in itself. And the specimen that was once used by Ford’s aerospace division as a service vehicle is even more valuable due to its history. Adding a famous owner to these qualities results in a true auction star. This is likely what Ford CEO Jim Farley is hoping for, as this is his personal Pantera, and now it can pass into the hands of anyone with sufficient funds.
From Museum to Restoration
This car was essentially a museum exhibit before being put up for sale in 2018. During that auction, it was involved in an accident during a test drive. Fortunately, the damage was only cosmetic, and Farley purchased it in 2024 for $121,000 at a second auction. Since then, he has updated the engine and transmission, installed a modernized intake manifold, restored the wheels, and reupholstered the interior. To say it’s a high-quality job is an understatement.
Non-Standard Origins
The yellow Pantera was not originally delivered to a dealer or a wealthy collector. Instead, it went to the Ford Aeronutronic aerospace division, where, according to reports, it served as a general-purpose service vehicle before being registered to a private owner in California in 1974. In other words, Ford once treated this mid-engine exotic car as a regular company car. And for service vehicles of that era, it couldn’t get any better.
Technical Features and Modern Improvements
Behind the passengers sits a 351 Cleveland V8 engine, which, even before Farley’s intervention, delivered over 400 horsepower to the wheels. All this power is transmitted only to the rear wheels via a five-speed ZF manual transmission. Adjustable QA1 coilovers on each wheel provide stability, and disc brakes make the car safer than if it had drum brakes.
A Result That Exceeds Expectations
The end result is a car that already stood out due to its origins from Ford Aerospace and owner Jim Farley, and now is also one of the most prepared and refined Panteras one can find. Whoever buys it will get more than just a classic. They will become the owner of a strange but charming piece of Ford’s history.
A seller from Wisconsin has listed the Pantera for auction on Bring a Trailer on behalf of Farley. The listing can be viewed on the relevant resource.
This story well illustrates how a combination of original history, a famous owner, and quality restoration can turn a classic car into a true collectible rarity. Such specimens often become central lots at auctions, attracting the attention of not only car enthusiasts but also historians of the automotive industry. The fate of this Pantera will show how much the market values such unique ‘hybrids’ of history and modern technology.
