1969 DeTomaso Mangusta

The De Tomaso Mangusta remains one of the defining Italian sports cars of the late 1960s, blending Giorgetto Giugiaro's timeless styling with dependable Ford V8 power. This 1969 example is one of just 401 Mangustas produced and has remained with its current owner since 2003, benefiting from more than two decades of careful restoration and mechanical improvements.

Finished in dark blue, the car received a bare-metal repaint in 2024 using Sikkens paint, along with replacement window seals, rechromed rear trim, and a ceramic coating. The seller notes the car has worn a blue finish since the 1970s. Signature design details remain intact, including the fixed quad headlights, side louvers, mesh rear grille, and the Mangusta's distinctive gullwing-style engine covers.

Power comes from a rebuilt 302 cubic-inch Ford V8, refreshed in 2006 with upgraded internal components, aluminum cylinder heads, and custom finned valve covers. Later additions include a Holley Brawler carburetor, aluminum radiator, SPAL electric cooling fan, and a high-output alternator. The V8 is paired with a ZF five-speed manual transaxle, while adjustable coilover suspension, power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes, and lightweight 15-inch Campagnolo magnesium wheels complete the performance package.

The cabin was reupholstered in red leather in 2005 and further refreshed in 2021 with a matching headliner, rear bulkhead upholstery, and new carpets. Amenities include power windows, a gated shifter, a serviced Blaupunkt cassette stereo, air conditioning converted to R134a refrigerant, and Veglia Borletti instrumentation behind a wood- and leather-rimmed steering wheel. The odometer shows 55,000 miles, around 6,000 of which were added during the current ownership.

Additional work has included replacement floor panels, an overhauled fuel tank, refreshed cooling components, and a custom exhaust system with ceramic-coated headers and ANSA mufflers. Offered with factory literature, service records, and a clean California title, this beautifully maintained Mangusta represents one of the rarest and most desirable early creations from De Tomaso.

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