1969 De Tomaso Mangusta

Description

Italian design, American V8 power, and tantalizingly low production numbers make the De Tomaso Mangusta an exotic that's constantly in demand. This 1969 model is a truly beautiful car that's been fully restored and is ready to be driven or collected, your choice. It's also the desirable 4-headlight example, is an early serial numbered car, and the 19,710 miles are original to the car. This car has had the same owner since 1974 and we believe it to be a 2-owner vehicle. It's even still on the original 1974 Florida title right now!.

Standing only 40 inches off the ground, the Mangusta came from the mind of legendary designer Giorgetto Giugiaro during his time at Ghia. This was the era of design revolution with few government restrictions, and this car is considered the crossroads of where the rounded 60s gave way to the angular designs of the 70s. In true Italian flair, there is always a bit style for style sake, and that's how gullwing doors end up over the engine. But this one is particularly special. These coupes have always carried an aggressive design line with its muscular wheelarches and low-mounted headlights whose sheetmetal overhangs like a furrowed brow. This personality is really allowed to be seen by adding new super-slick black paintwork, panted rear bumpers, and matching wheels with a hit of aggressive Italian red. Basically the exterior is black as midnight, cool as hell, and is one of the best black paint jobs you'll ever see.

Open the door and you'll see the same black with aggressive red touches that are on the outside. The bucket seats have been reupholstered in leather to continue looking their best, and the addition of the De Tomaso logo adds a nice extra touch of design. For the real drivers out there, this car comes with a new smaller diameter steering wheel that offers better grip. But the purists should remember that the original steering wheel is included. In fact, the original dashboard did not need upgrading and is in amazing shape after all these years! After all, a full package of clear Veglia gauges and toggle switch controls never goes out of style. Neither do luxuries like power windows, original-style AM/FM radio, or air conditioning – although this one has been upgraded to a more powerful and efficient R134a system which actually works!

Why are there gullwing doors for the engine compartment? Because fine china deserves a grand glass case. With the luggage cover removed, we are free to see the 302 cubic-inch Ford V8 in all its glory. The motor looks great with its the big blue block and De Tomaso valve covers. What you might not be able to spot is the upgrade to fuel injection – more evidence that this is a true drive's car. What might be even more substantial viewed through gullwing windows is the ZF five-speed transaxle that was fully rebuilt during the restoration. Backing up this powertrain is a race-inspired chassis with four-wheel disc brakes. This makes for an interesting situation, because there were only 401 Mangustas made and far less survive today. But with even with its rarity, it will be hard to resist taking this unique classic out for a drive.

This is a very well executed upgraded classic De Tomaso that intimidates modern supercars. But remember, the car does come with some original parts such as the steering wheel, engine bay covers, original owner's manual, and a lot of cool De Tomaso literature and brochures. Even the original hand-made De Tomaso parts catalog comes in this sale. This is amazing to drive and has all the right elements to steal any car show. Call Now!!!