Reply to "Pantera #7206 - GTS"

David,

You will see from reading previous posts on the topic of Pantera values that there is no shortage of opinions.

In MY opinion, two of the most significant reasons that Panteras don't have the "collectible" value of other low-production exotics are:

1) They were originally presented as a "cheap" alternative to the thoroughbred exotics of the day. Other American powered cars have reached very high values (Iso Griffo, Monteverdi, Bizzarrini) but they were always presented as high-end, exclusive cars and thus are "blue chip" investments.

2) Pantera owners (even those with very rare GT5, GT5-S and Pushbutton cars) feel quite comfortable customizing and modifying their cars from stock to create their "perfect" vision of a Pantera. Just look at the values of a customized Ferrari or Shelby GT350 (or any other "blue chip" car) and you will GENERALLY see a dramatic reduction in value for "resto-mods" compared to a completely original stock or "survivor" car. Yes, there are ALWAYS a few exceptions (the 300 SL Gullwing with the new Mercedes driveline is a perfect example), but these exceptions are rare.

I think that it is unlikely that MOST Panteras will ever be "blue chip" cars for these two reasons. And that is fine with me because I didn't buy mine as investment. If, however, you DO wish to buy one as an investment, then you should ONLY consider a COMPLETELY stock, original car. I suspect there are less than a hundred or so Panteras worldwide that can claim that status. Ironically, the "100 mile" white '74 Pantera isn't one of them because the current owner/seller has made some minor "updates" that have rendered it "destroyed" to some in the serious collector community. Of course, many changes can be reversed, but as is so often said "they are only original once".

Good luck with your search David. Don't worry, ownership isn't a requirement of acceptance into our community, but it will be more fun for you when you do finally have "your" cat.

Mark