Modena-based Ares Design has revealed the Panther Project 1
coachbuilt supercar in final production specification. The first product of Ares
Design’s “Legends Reborn” program may be named and styled after the legendary
1970s De Tomaso Pantera, but it is actually a Lamborghini at heart. That’s
because the retro-styled body covers the aluminum and carbon fiber hybrid
chassis of the Huracan complete with the 5.2-liter naturally-aspirated V10.
In this application, however, the engine develops
650 PS at 8,250 rpm and 600 Nm at 6,500 rpm courtesy of a
tuned ECU and exhaust system. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and
electronically controlled Haldex AWD system stay the same.
Despite packing 10 extra horses and the fact that it
practically weighs the same (1,423 kg vs. 1,422 kg), the
Panther is 0.2 seconds slower from 0 to 100 km/h than the latest Huracan Evo,
covering the sprint in 3.1 seconds. Top speed, on the other hand, is an
identical 325 km/h.
Compared to the donor car, the Panther is longer and
narrower, thus sporting distinct proportions. The shape of the doors is
actually the only thing that gives away the Huracan origins of the bespoke
supercar. All the body panels are made from carbon fiber, and the pop-up
headlights feature full LED technology.
Since we’re talking about a coachbuilt car, the
interior is very different as well and only the digital cockpit reminds us of
the Lambo. The cabin features interior panels in carbon fiber and leather, as
well custom made Nappa leather and Alcantara upholstery. Obviously, Ares Design
can fully tailor it to the customer’s wishes.
The company will start delivering Panthers to
customers at the end of May. If you’re interested, the modern-day De Tomaso
Pantera will set you back € 615,000 (US$ 695,000). Building one takes Ares
Design three months, so you’ll have to be patient as well as wealthy.
