1980 De Tomaso Pantera GT5 Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the De Tomaso Pantera GT5 is approximately 1474 kg (3249 lbs). This relatively moderate weight for a high-performance sports car is achieved through its lightweight construction combined with powerful drivetrain components. The curb weight affects acceleration, handling, and fuel efficiency, with the Pantera GT5 striking a balance between robust performance and agility, enabling it to be both fast on straights and responsive in corners.

The Pantera GT5 has a ground clearance of 146 mm (5.75 inches), which is typical for high-performance sports coupes designed for good road grip and handling. This lower ride height improves aerodynamics and center of gravity, enhancing stability and cornering capabilities. However, it means the car may be less suited for uneven roads or speed bumps, making it ideal for smooth, twisty tarmac roads or track use.

The Pantera GT5 features staggered tire sizes for optimal grip and handling: front tires are 285/40 VR15 mounted on 10J x 15 rims, while the rear tires are larger at 345/35 VR15 with 13J x 15 rims. This setup enhances traction, especially in rear-wheel drive layout, providing strong lateral grip during cornering and stability during acceleration and braking. Larger rear tires help deliver the engine's power efficiently to the road.

The Pantera GT5, with its length of 4270 mm (168.1 inches) and width of 1970 mm (77.6 inches), generally fits within the dimensions of a standard residential garage, which typically accommodates vehicles up to about 5 meters (16.4 feet) in length and 2.4 meters (7.9 feet) in width. However, due to the car’s wide body and low height (1100 mm/43.3 inches), caution is advised, especially in garages with narrow doors or limited width clearance. Drivers should measure garage dimensions beforehand to ensure a comfortable fit.

Compared to the original Pantera produced in the early 1970s, the Pantera GT5 introduced in 1980 maintained similar overall dimensions but featured subtle refinements. The length of 4270 mm (168.1 inches) and width of 1970 mm (77.6 inches) were slightly adjusted to accommodate improved aerodynamics and a wider-body design in some versions. While the height and curb weight remained in a similar range, the GT5 generally benefited from updated suspension and chassis tweaks to improve handling without dramatically increasing size or weight.

When compared to other exotic Italian sports cars of the 1980s such as the Lamborghini Countach or Ferrari 308/328, the Pantera GT5 is slightly more compact in length but wider, with 1970 mm (77.6 inches) width offering a broad stance. For example, the Countach measured around 4290 mm (169 inches) long and had a narrower width. The Pantera’s proportions emphasize stability and grip, while its low height of 1100 mm (43.3 inches) is comparable to the low-profile nature of its competitors, all aiming for a sleek, aerodynamic form factor.

The substantial width of 1970 mm (77.6 inches) gives the Pantera GT5 excellent road presence and enhances cornering stability by lowering the lateral center of gravity and spreading out the tires’ contact patch. However, this width can make maneuvering and parking in tight city spaces or narrow streets more challenging. Drivers used to compact sedans or smaller sports cars may need extra care when parking or driving in congested environments with the Pantera GT5.

The De Tomaso Pantera GT5, being a two-seat sports coupe with low height (1100 mm/43.3 inches) and a relatively compact footprint, offers a snug but driver-focused interior environment. The emphasis is on sporty ergonomics rather than spaciousness. Headroom and legroom accommodate drivers and passengers with an athletic driving posture, but taller individuals may find the low roofline restrictive. The cockpit prioritizes accessibility to controls and offers limited storage typical of high-performance sports cars.

The Pantera GT5’s low ride height of 146 mm (5.75 inches) enhances handling and aerodynamic efficiency by lowering the center of gravity, but it may reduce practicality for everyday driving. This clearance means caution is required over speed bumps, steep driveways, and uneven road surfaces to avoid damage to the underbody or front splitter. While the setup benefits precision and cornering on smooth surfaces or tracks, it compromises ride comfort and ease of entry/exit compared to higher sports cars or grand tourers.