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California is infamous for having its own air pollution regulations which are always a bit more stringent than the Federal regulations. Ford did not bother to get the 351C 4V smog certified in California for 1974. 1974 was the last year of production for the 351C 4V, and rather than get the engine double certified (Federal & California) they simply omitted the engine as an option for California Ford & Mercury buyers.

My 1974 Pantera was originally sold in California, so it was re-documented as a 1973 as all California Panteras were that year. It spent all of its early years in the state, but eventually was taken north by owners in Oregon and Washington. Then Mike Mayberry brought it back to California circa 2003.

It is registered today in the state of California as a 1973/1974 De Tomaso Pantera. Dual years. California seems to be alright with that.
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