Heritage Revived- The world of automotive design and engineering has always been marked by bold innovations and iconic creations. Among these legendary names, De Tomaso stands out as a beacon of creativity and passion. Many car enthusiasts may recall the glory days of the De Tomaso Pantera L, a supercar that dominated the scene between 1967 and 1971. Its cutting-edge design and performance made it an unforgettable icon of its time. However, as decades passed and newer models emerged, the Pantera's prominence began to fade. Yet, the story of De Tomaso is far from over, as a new chapter was unveiled at the 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed.
The stunning De Tomaso P72 supercar serves as a tribute to the lesser-known but equally significant De Tomaso P70 prototype racer from the 1960s. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
De Tomaso, the brainchild of Alejandro de Tomaso, was founded over 60 years ago in Italy. This prestigious automotive brand recently underwent a remarkable revival, thanks to Ideal TeamVenture, a Hong Kong-based company. Ideal TeamVenture is no stranger to breathing new life into legacy brands; they also acquired the German supercar manufacturer Gumpert, rebranding it as Apollo and unveiling the V12-powered Apollo Intensa Emozione. With De Tomaso back in the spotlight, the world was introduced to their latest masterpiece, the De Tomaso P72.
The De Tomaso P72 supercar, designed by Jowyn Wong of Wyn Design, seamlessly blends modern aerodynamic efficiency with nostalgic nods to the P70. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
The P72 is not a direct successor to the famous Pantera. Instead, it serves as a tribute to the lesser-known but equally significant De Tomaso P70 prototype racerfrom the 1960s. This car was a product of collaboration between Alejandro de Tomaso and Carroll Shelby. While the P70’s racing career was short-lived, with its debut ending prematurely at the 1966 Mugello Grand Prix, its design legacy endured. Penned by Peter Brock, the P70’s aesthetic lines now inspire the curves of the P72, blending retro charm with modern innovation.
Interior view of De Tomaso P72 supercar is equally captivating, showcasing polished copper accents, intricate diamond-pattern details, and switchgear reminiscent of the 1960s and 1970s. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
The P72's design is a testament to the skill of Jowyn Wong from Wyn Design. His vision seamlessly marries the aerodynamic efficiency of contemporary supercars with nostalgic elements that harken back to the P70. Features such as the wing mirrors and the front emblem cover reflect this homage, creating a sense of timeless elegance. The interior of the P72 is equally captivating, showcasing polished copper accents, intricate diamond-pattern details, and switchgear reminiscent of the 1960s and 1970s. Analogue display dials add a classic touch, making the cabin an experience in itself.
A bespoke carbon fiber monocoque structure of the De Tomaso P72 supercar. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
Peter Brock, the designer of the original P70, expressed his admiration for the P72’s design, stating that he was amazed by how his mid-60s concept influenced a car of the modern era. “The exterior form is so well done it invites you to keep walking around, admiring every subtle detail,” he said, highlighting the timeless appeal of the P72’s aesthetic.
The De Tomaso P72 supercar powered by a Roush-tuned Ford V8 engine. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
Underneath its stunning exterior lies a bespoke carbon fiber monocoque structure designed to meet the rigorous safety standards of Le Mans prototypes. While the complete technical details are yet to be disclosed, the P72 promises to deliver performance that matches its beauty. The De Tomaso P72 supercar, driven by a Roush-tuned 5L Ford V8 engine with a supercharger, delivers 750hp and 900Nm of torque for an ideal blend of road-ready power and exceptional performance.
Adding to its exclusivity, only 72 units of the P72 will be produced, with a price tag of €750,000 (approximately $846,250). This limited production ensures that the P72 remains a rare gem in the world of supercars. North American buyers will have the opportunity to acquire this automotive marvel through Miller Motorcars in Greenwich, Connecticut. For those captivated by its allure, now is the time to act and secure a piece of automotive history.
The resurrection of De Tomaso through the P72 marks a new dawn for the brand, blending heritage with innovation in a way that few manufacturers can achieve. It is a celebration of the past while embracing the future, a supercar that not only commands attention but also ignites the imagination of enthusiasts and collectors alike. As De Tomaso continues its journey, the P72 stands as a shining symbol of what’s possible when artistry and engineering come together to create something truly extraordinary. *** [EKA [06072019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES| DETOMASO-AUTOMOBILI| MOTORAUTHORITY | MOTOR1 ]
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