When De Tomaso introduced the Pantera Gt5 at the Turin Motor Show in 1980, it marked a significant turning point for the Pantera model. The arrival of the Pantera GT5 signaled a shift in design philosophy and ultimately contributed to the decline of the original narrow-bodied Pantera’s sales.
The Pantera GT5 embraced the popular trend of widebody styling, featuring prominent wheel arch extensions, deep side skirts, and a substantial rear spoiler. This bold aesthetic not only modernized the Pantera’s appearance but also allowed De Tomaso to incorporate the latest advancements in tire technology, specifically Pirelli’s groundbreaking P7 low-profile tires.
This striking transformation positioned the Pantera GT5 as an appealing alternative to the Lamborghini Countach. Both Italian supercars, in their updated forms – the Pantera GT5 and the Countach S – offered similar visual drama and performance aspirations. However, a key differentiator was the Pantera GT5‘s accessibility. Unlike the complex and high-maintenance V12 engine of the Countach, the Pantera GT5 utilized a robust and straightforward Ford V8 engine. This engine choice made the Pantera GT5 easier and less expensive to service, a considerable advantage for many enthusiasts. The Ford V8 meant that practically any competent mechanic could work on the Pantera GT5, unlike the specialized expertise required for the Countach.
The introduction of the Pantera GT5 did revitalize sales for De Tomaso. However, the fiberglass additions, while impactful, soon began to appear somewhat dated as automotive design evolved. Recognizing this, Alejandro de Tomaso commissioned a further evolution of the widebody Pantera.
This next iteration, the Pantera GT5S, debuted at the Turin Motor Show in November 1984. It joined the existing Pantera GTS and Pantera GT5 models, alongside other De Tomaso offerings like the Deauville and Longchamp. The Pantera GT5S refined the widebody concept, moving away from the GT5’s fiberglass additions to a more sophisticated all-steel body. The wheel arches, side skirts, and front spoiler were seamlessly integrated, giving the Pantera GT5S a smoother, more contemporary look that aligned with the increasingly curvaceous design trends of the mid-1980s.
