The 1996 Guara Barchetta: De Tomaso’s Attention-Grabbing Supercar
When it comes to turning heads on the sidewalk, the Pantera supercar may be De Tomaso’s most famous car, but it’s the 1996 Guara Barchetta that steals the show. This striking beauty gives even the new De Tomaso P72 a run for its money in terms of attracting attention.
The Guara Barchetta has an interesting history, originating from a series of Maserati Barchetta racecars built in the early 1990s for the Grantrofeo Monomarca Barchetta Maserati one-make series. Alejandro de Tomaso, the owner of Maserati at the time, had these track cars constructed at his Modena factory, along with a single Stradale road car prototype.
After Fiat’s complete acquisition of Maserati, De Tomaso decided to extend the chassis of the racecars to accommodate a switch from the mid-mounted Maserati V6 engine to a more powerful BMW V8 engine. This modification gave birth to the Guara road car. A total of 52 Guaras were built starting in 1993, with most featuring coupe bodywork. A few were convertible Spiders, and only 10 were produced in the Barchetta form, capturing the essence of the original Maserati racers.
This particular Guara Barchetta was purchased brand new in 1996 by the owner of Pantera Parts. It was imported to the U.S. without an engine and later fitted with a 32-valve 4.6-liter Ford V8 engine. This powerful engine produces at least 305 horsepower (309 PS) and drives the rear wheels through a six-speed transmission.
One of the standout features of this Guara Barchetta is its gated shifter, adding a touch of nostalgia and elegance to the driving experience. The slatted tail lamps are also a great example of Italian industrial design. However, our favorite detail is the carbon rear-view mirror that sits on a stalk above the cowl. It reminds us of the iconic early 1970s Targa Florio legends like the Porsche 908, which shares a similar styling.
Originally, Barchettas were designed without a windshield, but this particular Guara has been modified slightly for road use without compromising its looks or appeal. In fact, many would argue that it looks even better with the addition of a windshield. Not having to wear a helmet or tape your mouth shut to keep the flies out adds to the car’s overall appeal. If you’re captivated by this stunning package, you’ll be pleased to know that this example is currently available for sale on Bring-a-Trailer. It’s the perfect summer car for those who appreciate both style and performance.
In conclusion, while the Pantera may be De Tomaso’s most famous car, the 1996 Guara Barchetta is the one that truly turns heads. With its unique history, powerful engine, and striking design, this Guara Barchetta is a true attention-grabber. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply appreciate beauty on wheels, this supercar is sure to leave a lasting impression. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of automotive history.