Description
Panther Lima Turbo (1979) – Rare Factory Turbo Model
The vehicle offered by us is an exceedingly rare ** Panther Lima Turbo**, one of only a few factory-turbocharged models. While the majority of the Lima series was equipped with the standard 2. 3-litre Vauxhall engine (~110 hp) without forced induction, the Turbo version (≈152 hp) represented the absolute top model — handcrafted, high-performance and technically impressive for the late 1970s.
Production of the Panther Lima Turbo ran from late 1978 through approximately 1980 in extremely limited numbers. Based on the Lima Series 2, the Turbo model was fitted for the U. S. export market with a Garrett turbo-kit, to meet the growing demand for more powerful roadsters. Contemporary sources state that only around ** 20 to 25** of these Turbo models were built worldwide, the majority of which were exported to North America. Only a handful of units ever returned to Europe, mostly through re-imports from California.
The Lima was developed by British manufacturer ** Panther Westwinds**, whose founder ** Robert Jankel** was known for producing eccentric, handcrafted luxury vehicles with character. With the Lima, he combined classic 1930s-style bodywork with modern mechanical architecture — a concept that attracted international attention.
Equipment & Technical Highlights
* Engine: 2. 3 litre Vauxhall with Garrett turbo-kit
* Output: approx. ** 152 hp (112 kW)**
* Gearbox: 4-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
* Chassis: Tubular frame with fiberglass body
* Wheels: Original 13″ chrome wire-spoke rims (bolt-on)
* Tyres: Five new white-wall tyres (fitted November 2025)
* Brakes: Rear wheel cylinders overhauled/ replaced
* Recent service after long storage: engine runs smoothly, accepts throttle cleanly, vehicle drives independently (video proof available)
* Notable features: original black leather seats, Smiths instruments, sporty three-spoke steering wheel, genuine US-export Turbo variant
Condition & Assessment
This example spent the majority of its 46-year life in long-term storage in California, confirmed by the current odometer reading of just ** 4, 418 miles**. In November 2025 it received five new white-wall tyres on the original 13″ chrome wire-spoke rims and the rear brake cylinders were completely renewed. The engine was also given minor servicing owing to the prolonged stand-time. Since then it runs cleanly, takes throttle smoothly and drives under its own power — a very solid base for discerning collectors who value authenticity.
The body remains in an honestly preserved ** California condition**, largely free from the typical corrosion issues found in many British vehicles of that era. The car was kept in a garage for the entire period, so the sunny Californian climate did little harm to the paintwork or dashboard instruments. The two-tone body in “Yellow-Black” along with the original “LIMA TURBO” badge on the fiberglass bonnet is impressively intact, showing only light wear consistent with long-term storage.
The interior is original and completely unmodified: black leather seats with natural patina, Smiths dials and the sporty three-spoke wheel. True fans of English roadsters know: that is all you need! The rare Turbo variant also delivers its own distinctive, throaty note — you’ll gladly dispense with the stereo.
Conclusion
As an original U. S. export Turbo, this Lima ranks among the rarest of its kind. With only ** about 25** examples worldwide, it is a coveted rarity for the international collector market. A British low-volume classic that is steadily gaining relevance and recognition across the globe.
Feel free to let me know if you’d like any slight tweaks — for instance emphasising export history or collector potential.
Important Information
The vehicle offered is currently ** located in California (USA)** and will be imported ** exclusively upon customer request**.
Importation takes place ** after full payment**, via our ** local shipping partner in California**, ensuring full security for all parties. The process includes ** transport, customs clearance, and shipping to Europe**.
We at ** TOSIGN Classics & Sportscars** act ** solely as a service provider** in this context. Upon request, we handle the ** entire import procedure** from the ** Port of Antwerp**, including ** official customs clearance in Germany (Aachen customs office)** and coordination of all related ** import documentation and logistics**.
Your Dream Car from California
Through our trusted partner network in California, we can source vehicles of any make or brand upon request – from classic Mercedes models to rare American sports cars or Japanese exotics.
Within a radius of approximately 150 miles around Los Angeles, we have access to a proven network of dealers, collectors, and private sellers. Please feel free to contact us for further details, questions, or specific vehicle requests. What makes this Panther Lima Turbo so fascinating is its unusual blend of British craftsmanship and Californian preservation.
It’s not just a classic — it’s one of the rare factory-built Turbo models, produced in extremely limited numbers for the U. S. market.
I’ve always been drawn to cars that tell their own story, and this one truly does: the design captures the spirit of 1930s roadsters, yet the turbocharged 2. 3 L engine gives it the punch and character of the late 1970s.
What I appreciate most is its authenticity — unspoiled, original, and still carrying the charm of its era.
For anyone who loves unique British engineering with a touch of eccentric flair, this car is something genuinely special.
