In the present automotive climate, with historic European marques being revived left, right and center, a name like de Tomaso couldn't lay dormant for long. The Modena-based supercar-maker (not unlike Pagani) founded by Argentine-Italian industrialist and former racing driver Alejandro de Tomaso had a colored history that included the production of such iconic sportscars as the Ford-powered Pantera and Mangusta. Along the way, de Tomaso also made a few racing cars – including an F1 car for Williams – and even tried its hand at Jaguar-rivaling luxury cars like the Deauville and the Longchamp, as well as temporarily taking over such stoic firms as Ghia, Vignale, Moto Guzzi, and, in between Citroen and Fiat ownership, even Maserati. After a last-ditch effort to produce a new Mangusta with Qvale went sour, however, the company dissolved in June 2004, shortly after the founder's passing.
The latest industry reports, however, suggest that the de Tomaso name might embark on a new future, lead by a group of American and Chinese investors. The company was last owned by MG-Rover, which closed it down after just one year. Back in the day, de Tomaso's most famous customer was Elvis Presley; if thousands can believe that Elvis is still alive, then certainly de Tomaso could be resuscitated as well. We'll be watching the gates of Graceland for emerging news.
[Source: Motor Authority]
Sign in to post
Please sign in to leave a comment.
Continue