1966 De Tomaso Mangusta Spyder Prototype

Mangusta Spyder Prototype image

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The De Tomaso Mangusta Spyder Prototype 1966 is a beautiful and rare vehicle that was created by the Italian carmaker De Tomaso. This prototype was built in the mid-1960s and represents the height of automotive craftsmanship and technical achievement. It features a unique design with a low, sleek body, ample interior space, and powerful performance capabilities.

The exterior of the Mangusta Spyder Prototype is designed to catch the eye with its aggressive lines and curves. It sports a distinctive hood scoop that adds a touch of muscularity to the overall design. It also comes with large, aerodynamically-designed ventilated disc brakes that provide exceptional stopping power. This car is truly a sight to behold and looks just as good as it drives.

Under the hood, the Mangusta Spyder is powered by a mid-mounted, high-performance Ford V8 engine. This engine produces an impressive 289 horsepower and is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission that allows the driver to easily achieve high speeds. Due to the lightweight chassis, the Mangusta Spyder can reach a top speed of 155 miles per hour with ease.

The Mangusta Spyder Prototype features a state-of-the-art suspension system that allows for a smooth ride even at high speeds. The suspension uses unequal-length A-arms in the front and a de Dion rear axle with a Watt's linkage in the rear. This system provides excellent handling and stability, even when cornering at high speeds.

The interior of the Mangusta Spyder is equally impressive, with a spacious cabin that provides ample legroom and headroom for both driver and passengers. It features a unique and luxurious design that is both functional and comfortable. Designed with the driver in mind, the dashboard is both intuitive and easy to use, with all of the essential gauges and controls easily accessible.

Overall, the De Tomaso Mangusta Spyder Prototype 1966 is a technical masterpiece that showcases the best that Italian engineering has to offer. With its unique design, powerful engine, state-of-the-art suspension system, and luxurious interior, this car is truly a work of art that any automotive enthusiast would be proud to own.

Milestones

- 1966: De Tomaso Mangusta Spyder Prototype is unveiled at the Turin Auto Show - 1966: The car features a mid-mounted Ford 289 V8 engine producing 306 horsepower - 1966: It is the first car to feature gull-wing doors in a Spyder configuration - 1966: The chassis of the Mangusta is designed by racing engineer Giotto Bizzarrini - 1966: The bodywork of the Mangusta is designed by Italian designer Giorgetto Giugiaro at Ghia - 1966: The car's engineering and design features influence the development of the De Tomaso Pantera - 1967: The Mangusta Spyder Prototype is featured in an issue of Road & Track magazine - 1967: A second prototype is built with improvements to its suspension and steering - 1968: Production of the De Tomaso Mangusta coupe begins, based on the Spyder Prototype's design and engineering - 1983: The Mangusta Spyder Prototype is sold at auction in Arizona for $47,000 USD.


Technical

- Produced in 1966 by De Tomaso - Limited production run of only two units - Based on the De Tomaso Mangusta coupe - Features an open-top design with no roof or windows - Powered by a mid-mounted Ford V8 engine producing 306 horsepower - Equipped with a five-speed ZF manual transmission - Has a lightweight fiberglass body - Utilizes a four-wheel independent suspension system with coil-over dampers - Features vented disc brakes on all four wheels for superior stopping power - Boasts a top speed of approximately 155 miles per hour - Considered one of the rarest and most sought-after De Tomaso models today.
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