Jay Leno's Garage (2013) Season 9 Episode 4 1971 De Tomaso Pantera

In Jay Leno's Garage season 9 episode 4, the spotlight is on the 1971 De Tomaso Pantera. The episode delves into the history of the Italian-American hybrid sports car that has captured the attention of car enthusiasts around the world.

Jay Leno starts off by showcasing the sleek design of the 1971 De Tomaso Pantera, which is a perfect blend of Italian aesthetics and American muscle. He takes viewers through the car's exterior, pointing out its signature features such as the low-slung hood, the sharp creases on the body, the hidden headlights, and the wide rear fenders that house the beefy tires.

Next up, Jay gives viewers a peek under the hood of the Pantera. One of the most striking aspects of the car is its mid-mounted engine, which is a Ford 351 Cleveland V8 that can churn out up to 330 horsepower. Jay notes that the Pantera was one of the first cars to feature this type of engine placement, and it was a game-changer in the world of sports cars.

As the episode progresses, viewers get to learn more about the Pantera's history and how it came to be. Jay explains that the Pantera was the brainchild of Alejandro De Tomaso, an Argentine-Italian businessman who founded the De Tomaso car company in the 1950s. De Tomaso had a vision of creating a car that combined Italian engineering and American muscle, and the Pantera was the realization of that dream.

Jay also talks about how the Pantera was met with a mixed response when it was first released in the early 1970s. Some critics praised the car for its stunning design and powerful engine, while others were critical of its handling and build quality. Despite these criticisms, the Pantera became a cult classic among car enthusiasts and has remained a highly sought-after collector's item to this day.

To give viewers a better sense of what it's like to drive the Pantera, Jay takes the car out for a spin on the open road. He notes that while the car's ride can be a bit rough due to its stiff suspension, the handling is impressive and the engine roars like a beast. Jay also talks about how the Pantera has undergone various upgrades and modifications over the years, and how these changes have impacted the car's performance and overall appeal.

In addition to showcasing the Pantera itself, the episode also features interviews with experts and collectors who share their insights and opinions about the car. They discuss everything from the Pantera's place in automotive history to its impact on modern sports cars. Viewers also get to see some rare footage of early Pantera ads and commercials, which provide a glimpse into how the car was marketed back in the day.

Overall, the Jay Leno's Garage season 9 episode 4 is a fascinating exploration of the 1971 De Tomaso Pantera and its place in the world of sports cars. Whether you're a die-hard car enthusiast or simply appreciate beautiful design and powerful engines, this episode is sure to entertain and educate.