Registration - FAX 483K
Chassis No. - THPNMR02716
M.O.T. - June 2025
Odometer - 46,000
Flamboyantly presented in fantastic French Blue, this rare example of De Tomaso’s Pantera supercar has small-screen heritage. Seen in Season 4 Episode 10 of Breaking Bad, ‘FAX 483K’ is an immaculately presented left-hand drive Pantera - including sumptuous tan leather interior - spending much of its life in the United States, where the warmer weather is kinder to Seventies bodywork. A desirable pre-L model, with sleeker lines thanks to smaller chrome bumpers, this Pantera features original elements such as pop-up headlights, ‘Pantera’ side graphic and twin-binnacle instrument panel. Powered by a Ford 5.75-litre Ford Cleveland V8, output when new was in excess of 330hp, and power is put to the rear wheels through a five-speed ZF transmission with a dog-leg open grate. Featuring disc brakes all-round, a high-torque V8, and robust gearbox, the Pantera is designed to go as well as it looks, with a 5.5 seconds 0-60mph time when new.
A bona fide 70s supercar, ‘FAX 483K’ has been well maintained throughout its life, coming with a folder of receipts documenting work carried out over the years. The odometer displays an indicated 46,000 miles, though given its history outside of the UK, this cannot be guaranteed. Records indicate that this Pantera was imported to the UK almost nine years ago, during which time ‘FAX 483K’ has continued to be cherished. The current owner describes all areas of the De Tomaso as being in ‘excellent’ condition, including the engine, transmission, electrics, bodywork, paint, and interior. They also state that the Ford V8 ‘sounds amazing’ and, matching contemporary reports, the Pantera is a surprisingly easy car to drive; a statement that can’t be said about much Italian exotica of the time.
De Tomaso introduced the Pantera in 1970, with production starting in 1971, replacing the Mangusta. Designed by Ghia’s Tom Tjaarda, the styling - as with many sports cars of the period - started life as a fairly clean wedge-shape, and evolved over the years to become gradually less pointed; think Lamborghini Countach, Lotus Esprit… Pre-1972 models, such as this example, featured the ‘bumperette’ front bumpers – two small chrome strips on the front corners – which were replaced for the facelift with a single, full-width black rubber bumper, to fit US regulations. The US was a key market for the car, with De Tomaso selling the rights to the Pantera to Ford, to distribute the car Stateside; the firm retained rights to market the Pantera in Europe. With a focus on US sales, it meant the Pantera came well equipped, with the likes of electric windows and air conditioning. The Pantera was raced extensively, and remained in production until the early Nineties, rolling out with a new design from Marcelo Gandini as the Pantera 90 Si.
'A Buyer’s Premium applies to the Hammer Price of this Lot if your bid is successful, as per the following; Motor Cars 12.5% + VAT (minimum £150 + VAT), Motorcycles and Bicycles 12.5% + VAT (minimum £150 + VAT); Registration Numbers 15% + VAT (minimum £50 + VAT); Automobilia 15% + VAT (minimum of £5 + VAT).'
Potential buyers should satisfy themselves with the description and condition of each lot prior to sale. Each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ as per the terms and conditions for the auction, buyers are asked to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out the service. Any disputes over descriptions will not be entertained.
Sold for £70,875
(Inclusive of Buyer's Premium)
Auction: The Bolesworth Castle November 2024 Classic, Performance & Supercar Auction, 24th Nov, 2024
Our November auction of classic and performance cars
Viewing Days:
Saturday 23rd November,12 noon - 6pm
Sunday 24th November, 9am - 12 noon
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Fill in the form below and one of our team will get in touch with a no-obligation valuation. We will also take you through the consignment and valuation process, to enable you to make an informed decision.
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