Image of 1987 Detomaso Pantera, sourced from www.exoticcarsofhouston.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the Power and Elegance of the 1987 DeTomaso Pantera

The 1987 DeTomaso Pantera is a symphony of Italian design and American muscle, a testament to an era when raw power met cutting-edge style. Born from the ambition of Alejandro de Tomaso, this exotic sports car was crafted with a vision to compete with the world's most prestigious marques. The Pantera, which translates to "Panther" in Italian, prowled the automotive scene with its mid-engine layout and Ford V8 heart, capturing the imaginations of enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Unique among its peers, the Pantera's production run through the 1970s and into the early 1990s saw various iterations. However, it was in 1987 when the GT5-S model made its mark with wider wheel arches and a more aggressive stance. This particular year stands out for introducing refined enhancements that solidified the Pantera's place in automotive history.

Design and Innovation

The 1987 DeTomaso Pantera's exterior is a masterclass in Italian flair. Its low-slung profile, angular lines, and pop-up headlights embody the quintessential sports car aesthetic of its time. The GT5-S variant boasted flared fenders and an imposing rear wing that not only enhanced its appearance but also improved aerodynamics.

Inside, the cabin reflected a blend of luxury and performance. Leather seats and trim mingled with a purposeful dashboard layout. Gauges were oriented towards the driver, emphasizing the car's driver-centric philosophy. While not laden with gadgets by today's standards, for its time, it offered an impressive array of technological advancements such as air conditioning and power windows.

Color options ranged from vibrant reds to deep blues, with popular choices often accentuating the vehicle's dramatic body lines. Among these, "Rosso Red" and "Nero Black" were particularly sought after for their ability to highlight the Pantera's exotic presence.

Historical Significance

The DeTomaso Pantera's influence on automotive design was profound. It bridged two worlds – European design sensibilities with American muscle – creating a niche that appealed to a broad audience. It set itself apart with its mid-engine configuration at a time when most American sports cars favored a front-engine layout. The Pantera's legacy is evident in how it paved the way for future collaborations between American powertrains and European design houses.

Performance and Handling

The heart of the 1987 DeTomaso Pantera was its Ford-sourced 5.8-liter V8 engine. This powerhouse could propel the car to impressive speeds, boasting a top speed north of 150 mph. Acceleration was equally exhilarating, with 0-60 mph sprints achievable in under 6 seconds – figures that commanded respect on both street and track.

The driving experience was visceral; handling was sharp and responsive, allowing drivers to feel connected to the road. The roar of the V8 combined with precise gear shifts made for an engaging drive that demanded attention and skill.

Ownership Experience

Owning a 1987 DeTomaso Pantera could range from exhilarating daily drives to weekend show events or even occasional track days. Maintenance required dedication as parts could be scarce, but communities of passionate owners provided support for those willing to keep these machines roaring on modern roads.

Fun Facts

The Pantera has graced many celebrity garages including those of Elvis Presley and Johnny Carson. It also held records for being one of the fastest production cars available at certain points during its production run. Despite some criticisms over reliability in its early years, later models like the '87 addressed many concerns.

Collector's Information

Today, an '87 DeTomaso Pantera can fetch anywhere from $80,000 to well over $200,000 depending on condition, provenance, and originality. Production numbers were limited as this was a hand-built car; estimates suggest that fewer than 6,000 were produced over its entire lifespan with only a fraction being from the '87 year specifically.

The value trajectory has been on an upward trend as classic exotic cars continue to gain popularity among collectors who appreciate their unique blend of performance and style.

Conclusion

The 1987 DeTomaso Pantera stands as an icon that captured a unique moment in automotive history – where speed met beauty in an international partnership. Its legacy endures among enthusiasts who cherish not just the thrill it provides but also what it represents: an audacious dream turned steel-and-oil reality.

1987 DeTomaso Pantera Brake Caliper Dust Boot. For front brakes. 1-7/8" O.D-SM 65-FBrake Caliper Dust Boot. For front brakes. 1-7/8" O.D. Each