The De Tomaso P72 is a rare gem in the world of luxury automobiles, blending vintage design with state-of-the-art performance. Launched to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the iconic Italian brand, the P72 captures the essence of the golden era of racing while embracing the precision and power of modern automotive engineering. With its limited production run and handcrafted design, the P72 offers a truly unique driving experience for collectors and enthusiasts.
A Legacy Reborn
Founded in 1959 by Argentine-born Alejandro de Tomaso, De Tomaso Automobili gained recognition for producing distinctive sports cars such as the Pantera and Mangusta. The P72 draws direct inspiration from the 1965 De Tomaso P70 prototype, a project originally developed with legendary American designer Carroll Shelby. This heritage is evident in the P72’s sweeping curves, bubble canopy, and timeless proportions, designed to pay tribute to the beauty of 1960s endurance racers.
Exterior Design
The exterior of the De Tomaso P72 is a striking blend of retro aesthetics and modern aerodynamics. Its fluid body lines, rounded front fascia, and prominent wheel arches evoke classic Le Mans racers, while the aerodynamic enhancements ensure stability and performance at high speeds.
The carbon fiber bodywork not only reduces weight but also adds to the car’s strength and durability. The teardrop-shaped cockpit and elongated rear end are not just for style—they contribute to aerodynamic efficiency and a lower drag coefficient.
Interior: Handcrafted Luxury and Artistic Precision
Step inside the P72, and the cabin reveals a world of artisanal craftsmanship. The interior features premium quilted leather, exposed gear linkages, copper detailing, and analog gauges modeled after vintage timepieces. Every element is designed for tactile engagement and aesthetic harmony.
The center console, adorned with rose gold-finished elements, complements the retro-inspired switches and gauges. Unlike modern digital cockpits, the P72’s interior emphasizes mechanical elegance, offering a nostalgic but functional experience.
Power and Performance
Underneath its elegant exterior, the P72 is powered by a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine developed in partnership with Roush Performance, a respected name in high-performance engines. This powerhouse produces approximately 750 horsepower and 900 Nm of torque, offering robust acceleration and thrilling responsiveness .
The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, enhancing driver engagement and control—rare in today’s era of automatic supercars. The P72 is built on a carbon fiber monocoque chassis derived from the Apollo Intensa Emozione, ensuring high torsional rigidity and safety while keeping weight to a minimum.
Chassis and Suspension
The carbon fiber monocoque chassis adheres to FIA LMP (Le Mans Prototype) safety standards, offering both safety and performance. This racing-grade structure enhances cornering stability and delivers a superior power-to-weight ratio.
The independent suspension system and advanced dampers provide exceptional handling on both track and road. Combined with performance brakes and high-performance tires, the P72 ensures precision, agility, and driving confidence.
Limited Production and Customization
De Tomaso has committed to building only 72 units of the P72 globally, underscoring its exclusivity. Each car is hand-assembled and offers extensive customization options, allowing owners to select bespoke interiors, finishes, and performance setups.
The starting price of the P72 is approximately €1.6 million (around $1.7 million), reflecting its rarity, craftsmanship, and technological sophistication.
Technological Integration
Despite its classic design, the P72 incorporates modern technology discreetly. Essential features such as traction control, ABS, and engine diagnostics are integrated without disrupting the vintage ambiance of the interior. This fusion ensures that drivers benefit from 21st-century safety and reliability without compromising the car’s classic character.
Market Position and Competition
The De Tomaso P72 competes in the ultra-luxury hypercar segment, where exclusivity and artistry are as crucial as raw performance. Rivals include the Pagani Huayra, Koenigsegg Jesko, and Bugatti Chiron, all known for their limited numbers and bespoke construction.
What sets the P72 apart is its deep historical connection, manual gearbox, and dedication to vintage design. In a market where most hypercars embrace futuristic aesthetics, the P72 appeals to a niche that values heritage, craftsmanship, and analog driving pleasure.
Environmental Considerations
While the P72 is not a hybrid or electric vehicle, its low production volume and handcrafted nature mean its environmental impact is relatively small compared to mass-produced cars. Nevertheless, De Tomaso has hinted at exploring sustainable manufacturing techniques and future electrification in subsequent models.
Public and Critical Reception
Since its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the P72 has garnered widespread acclaim for its breathtaking design and bold vision. Automotive journalists and collectors have praised it for its authentic tribute to motorsport history and for resisting the industry’s digital-only trend.
According to Autocar UK, the P72 “stands out as a passionate statement about the value of analog driving in a digital age”.
Conclusion
The De Tomaso P72 represents a rare and masterful convergence of the past and present. With its handcrafted construction, powerful V8 engine, retro-futuristic styling, and ultra-limited production, the P72 is more than just a supercar—it’s a rolling piece of automotive art.
For enthusiasts who seek a unique blend of heritage, exclusivity, and performance, the P72 stands as a compelling option in the modern hypercar landscape. As De Tomaso reestablishes itself on the global stage, the P72 sets a bold precedent for what the future of luxury motoring can look like—rooted in tradition, yet driven by innovation.