May 2020 • By Tony Thacker with Pete Brock

“In 1964 the unlikely pairing of Carroll Shelby and Alejandro de Tomaso, two of the strongest egos in international motorsport, conspired to build a car they felt could defeat the best in the world, they created the P70.”

—Peter Brock, designer P70.

De Tomaso was an Italian car maker that came to prominence in the US in the mid-60s with the introduction of the Ford 289-powered Mangusta—Italian for mongoose, an animal that can kill cobras. The chassis of the Mangusta was based on the steel backbone chassis of the P70. Of the 401 Mangusta built, about 350 were imported into the US until production stopped in 1971.

The Mangusta was superseded by the Pantera (panther) powered by Ford’s 5.8L 351 ci Cleveland V8. Ford began importing the Pantera late in 1971 and 1007 were sold that year through Lincoln-Mercury dealers and while there were quality issues Car and Driver magazine reported 0-60 mph in just 5.5 seconds—faster than a Mustang Boss 351.

After selling around 5,500 Panteras, Ford quit importing them in 1975. The 1973 Oil Crisis was a big factor but quality continued to be an issue. The De Tomaso name all but disappeared from the US except in the most specialized circles.

Fast forward to 2019, the 60th anniversary of De Tomaso, the world introduction of the new P72 at Goodwood and plans for a limited production of just 72. This stunning tribute to Brock’s original P70 will have a target price of €750,000 or, approximately $830,000 with final pricing coming this summer.

"When I was told this new De Tomaso is an ‘homage’ to my P70 Sports racer I was honored.” Said Brock. “I had no idea my concept from the mid ‘60s would in any way influential to a car being presented today.”

In fact, although the all-carbon fiber production chassis is the first of its kind, consisting of the monocoque, as well as sub frames and crash structures that adhere to respective FIA LMP safety requirements and features a carbon mono-cell, the fundamental design DNA is that of the P70.

“The exterior form, designed by Jowyn Wong of Wyn Design, is so well done it invites you to keep walking around, admiring every subtle detail. In this day of modern super GT’s it’s difficult to stand out for more than a short time. With its design and engineering I think this De Tomaso P72 will set a new standard." Concluded Brock.

In keeping with the historical lineage, a 5.0L-supercharged Ford Coyote engine developed jointly between De Tomaso and Roush will power the P72. While no specific performance figures were available, it is estimated that that engine will redline at 7,500 rpm and produce more than 700 hp and a maximum torque of more than 825 Newton-meters (608 lb-ft). Power is transmitted through a six-speed manual developed by De Tomaso.

For more information visit: detomaso-automobili.com