Ares Design Panther Resurrects De Tomaso Pantera As 641HP Coachbuilt Huracan

Following many enticing teasers and a camouflaged prototype, 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 (641 hp) at 8,250 rpm and 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) 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/3,137 lbs vs. 1,422 kg/3,134 lbs), 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 (201 mph).

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 (about $695,000). Building one takes Ares Design three months, so you’ll have to be patient as well as wealthy.