De Tomaso

Founded in 1959 by Argentinian Alejandro de Tomaso in Modena, the company originally produced prototypes and race cars, including Formula One. Ford acquired an 84% stake in De Tomaso in 1971 which lead to the creation of the most well known model - the Ford 351 V8 powered Pantera. In 1974 Alejandro brought back Ford’s share of the company and continued to produce the Pantera through the 1980s in very limited numbers. When Ford US stopped manufacturing the 351, De Tomaso did a deal with Ford Australia to supply them with locally made 351 until they too ceased manufacture in 1982.

Although not as well known, the earlier Mangusta first released in 1966 was a stunning looking, low slung sports car with unique rear gullwings over the rear engine compartment. Powered by Ford’s small block 289 - the Mangusta was built by Ghia which was owned by de Tomaso at the time.

The blue and white stripes of the De Tomaso logo are the colors of the Argentinian flag; the black symbol resembling a letter T is the cattle branding symbol of the estate where Alejandro was raised.