Beschreibung
For sale in our forthcoming auction 'Retromobile the Official Sale', on 2 February 2024 :
French title
Chassis No 8MA1074
Engine No 302-201
- One of 64 examples built with retractable headlights
- Matching numbers
- Numerous recent works
The breath-taking design of the Mangusta is thanks to the talented Giorgetto Giugiaro who was working at Ghia at that time. Initially intended for the Iso man-ufacturer who rejected it, the project was led by De Tomaso who immediately attracted the strength of this design, which inspired performance and modernity. Like many sports car manufacturers, it retained the Ford V8 engine, offered in 289cc for the European market and 302cc for the North American production. (prior to the 302 becoming standard at the end of the production)
This particular example was sold new in Canada and therefore has the powerful 302cc V8 engine. This is one of 64 examples sold with retractable headlights, out of a total production of 401 examples. Regularly used for 30 years, it was then imported to Belgium, where the current owner acquired it in used condition. He then got a bodywork restoration carried out, while retaining the original sub-structures which were very healthy. The work undertaken was of excellent quali-ty, both for the bodywork adjustments and the quality of the paint, presented in this orange shade which transforms the car into a true piece of design.
Body seals were replaced, the upholstery was restored in black nappa leather and the engine was taken out. Since the compressions were in excellent condi-tion, only the sealing and peripherals were redone or replaced. (carburettor, al-ternator, water pump, radiator with double fan, etc.) Naturally, the braking sys-tem was completely refurbished at the same time, which makes this superb Mangusta ready for the road. We noted the presence of the handsome obus mir-ror with convex glass. Its incredible looks will definitely be a head turner as it passes by, while the powerful V8 will provide enjoyable driving thrills to its own-er. It's not every day that you get to drive a design masterpiece!
