Italian car manufacturer De Tomaso is well-known for producing the Pantera, a powerful and iconic supercar. However, before the Pantera, De Tomaso’s first venture into series production cars was the Vallelunga. This particular model up for auction is believed to be the first fiberglass-bodied production model built by Ghia, making it the very first of its kind.
Founded in 1959 by Alejandro de Tomaso, an Argentinian former F1 racer, De Tomaso Modena SpA initially focused on manufacturing racing vehicles. However, Alejandro had a vision of creating high-performance road cars, which led to the creation of models like the Pantera and the Mangusta. The acquisition of Maserati in 1975 further solidified the company’s reputation in the automotive industry.
The Vallelunga, with its sleek design and lightweight construction, was De Tomaso’s initial foray into series production vehicles. Powered by a 1.5-liter Kent four-cylinder engine sourced from Ford, this model generated 104 horsepower, which was more than enough for its 1600-pound weight. The mid-engine layout, along with the pressed-steel backbone chassis and advanced suspension system, provided excellent balance and handling.
This specific Vallelunga, currently up for auction on Bring a Trailer, has a rich history, previously owned by De Tomaso specialist Marcel Schaub. It underwent a recent refresh, including interior retrimming and carburetor replacement, showcasing its pristine condition and attention to detail.
The Vallelunga is a testament to the craftsmanship and engineering prowess of De Tomaso, combining elements from various manufacturers like Ford, Renault, and Volkswagen. Its exquisite design and racing pedigree make it a valuable piece of automotive history and a sought-after collectible for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
If you’re interested in owning a piece of automotive history, head over to Bring a Trailer to view this rare and stunning De Tomaso Vallelunga. The auction is set to end on June 27th, so don’t miss your chance to own this unique and significant supercar.