There are classic cars... and then there are those that tell an unlikely story. This one ticks all the boxes. An Italian supercar, an American V8, a CEO at its helm, and above all a unique past: this De Tomaso Pantera served as Ford's company car in the 1970s. Today, it's being auctioned by Jim Farley, head of Ford Motor Company. And this model is like no other.
A Pantera like no other
In the 1970s, Ford Aerospace received this brand-new Pantera. Not for an executive, nor for a collector... but as a company car. Yes, an Italian supercar used as a simple service vehicle for employees.
A detail that seems inconceivable today. At the time, Ford was distributing the Pantera in the USA via its network, but reserving one for internal use shows just how atypical this collaboration between Detroit and Modena was.
Supplied in yellow, this “Pre-L” version is one of the first series, with separate chrome bumpers and a design by Tom Tjaarda. Under the skin is a chassis designed by Giampaolo Dallara, proof that the Pantera is a true blend of Italian and American expertise.
A turbulent life between museum, accident and renaissance
After its time at Ford, the car was registered in California in 1974, before disappearing from the roads for almost two decades. It was then exhibited for 18 years in a museum, becoming almost a piece frozen in time. But the story doesn't end there.
In 2018, it resurfaced at a first auction... which turned out badly. During a test drive, a potential buyer loses control and damages the car. Fortunately, the damage is mainly cosmetic and will be repaired later.
Jim Farley finally got his hands on the car in 2024, for around $121,000. Not an insignificant purchase for the Ford boss, who is passionate about cars and the brand's history.
Extensive restoration, without betraying the original spirit
Since its acquisition, the Pantera has benefited from a complete overhaul. The 351 Cleveland V8, the American heart of this Italian, has been completely reworked. With extensive preparation, it now exceeds 400 horsepower at the wheels.
The powertrain has been modernized and made more reliable: new intake, optimized internal components, reworked exhaust... all without altering the car's raw character. The rest follows the same philosophy. The suspensions have been replaced by adjustable suspension units, the brakes modernized, and the interior completely restored, with upholstery combining black vinyl and houndstooth fabric. Even the audio system has been discreetly modernized. The result is a Pantera that is both authentic and perfectly usable today.
A piece of history for sale
Today, this unique Pantera is up for auction on Bring a Trailer. Bidding has already exceeded $128,000, and there are still a few days to go before the auction closes.
An Italian supercar used as a Ford service car, crashed and restored in a museum, and now owned by the brand's CEO... it couldn't be more atypical.
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