1967–1971 De Tomaso Mangusta Specs & Performance

The Mangusta gave De Tomaso a striking new direction after the lightweight Vallelunga. Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro for Ghia, its low fastback body combined sharp Italian styling with a dramatic rear-mid-engine layout, while distinctive rear-hinged engine covers became one of its defining visual features. Underneath the exotic shape was a Ford V8, creating the unusual Italian-American character that would become central to De Tomaso’s identity.

For 1967–1971, the Mangusta offered a far more muscular experience than its elegant proportions might suggest. The 4.7-liter V8 produced 306 hp, giving the two-seat coupe serious straight-line ability, while a five-speed manual transaxle kept the driver closely connected to the engine. Its rarity adds another layer to the story, with only 401 examples produced during its production run. The Mangusta therefore stands as an important bridge between De Tomaso’s early lightweight sports cars and the Pantera that followed, combining Giugiaro’s design with Ford V8 power in a remarkably distinctive package.