The 1972 DeTomaso Pantera once owned by Ford CEO Jim Farley stands out not only for its provenance but also for its unusual corporate past. The car was originally delivered to Ford’s Aeronutronic division, part of Ford Aerospace, where it served as a company pool vehicle, an uncommon role for a performance-focused model.
Farley, known as an automotive enthusiast as much as an executive, purchased the Pantera in June 2024 through the same auction platform. The car is now being offered again, with six days remaining in the listing at the time it matched his purchase price of $121,000.
A Rare Corporate Past Tied To Ford Aerospace
This specific Pantera, identified by chassis THPNMD04013, has a documented history that begins within Ford itself. According to The Drive, it was delivered new to the Aeronutronic division and used internally before being sold to a private owner in July 1974.
After leaving Ford’s hands, the car spent 18 years displayed at the Yankee Candle car museum in South Deerfield, Massachusetts, a now-defunct institution. That long period in a museum—slightly unusual for a performance car—adds another layer to its already distinctive background.
The Pantera’s origins reflect the broader collaboration it represents. Designed with a steel monocoque by Giampaolo Dallara and styled by Tom Tjaarda, it combined Italian design with American engineering, notably a 351-cubic-inch Windsor V8 engine supplied by Ford.
An Eventful Auction History And Documented Damage
The car’s more recent history includes an incident during a previous sale attempt. When the Pantera was first listed on Bring a Trailer in October 2018, a prospective bidder crashed it during a test drive, spinning the car and damaging the passenger-side door and quarter panel.
The damage was later repaired, and the car was repainted in its original factory yellow color that same year. Despite the accident, the vehicle appears to have been maintained and restored with care, preserving its overall condition.
This episode adds to what is already described as a convoluted ownership history, even by collector car standards. Yet it has not prevented continued interest in the vehicle among enthusiasts and collectors.
Updates Under Farley’s Ownership And Current Condition
After acquiring the Pantera in 2024, Farley carried out several mechanical and cosmetic updates. The engine, which had been overbored, and the ZF five-speed manual transaxle were both serviced.
Modifications include the addition of an Edelbrock Performer intake manifold, refinishing of the 15-inch Campagnolo magnesium wheels in bronze, and the installation of a Ferrero steering wheel and updated audio system. The car currently shows approximately 34,000 miles.
The Pantera is now offered with a clean Michigan title in Farley’s name. As an early model, it retains cleaner styling compared to later versions, which featured more aggressive body modifications.
