De Tomaso Longchamp GTS, 1974
Chassis No.: 02067 Engine No.: Not known Registration: GGA 165M The Longchamp was developed from the De Tomaso Deauville four door saloon using a shorter wheelbase chassis with the same suspension, engine and transmission. The two models were the only front-engined production cars ever produced by De Tomaso. The Longchamp was first exhibited at the 1972 Turin Motor Show and was initially offered only as a two door 2+2 coupé. It was designed by Tom Tjaarda of Ghia and was influenced by his previous Lancia Marica prototype. The Longchamp featured a long bonnet to accommodate a 5769cc Ford Cleveland V8. The 351 Cleveland, a popular engine in late 1960’s Ford ‘muscle cars,’ was the same as that used in the Pantera producing 330bhp and consequently gave the Longchamp a top speed of 149mph. Suspension was independent front and rear with coil spring and wishbones, aided by power assisted rack and pinion steering with vented disc brakes all around. Formally owned by Le Mans race 'Ace' Claude Dubois and uprated to GTS specification by the factory, this example is one of only 412 cars manufactured worldwide. Finished in steel blue metallic coachwork with Nero hide and automatic gearbox, this De Tomaso was originally registered on 14th November 1973 making this one of the first 300 cars manufactured, generally referred to as the 2000 series. This particular example has formed part of significant car collection and is supplied with a wealth of invoices, original owner-driver handbook and factory supplied sales brochure. https://www.historics.co.uk/auction/lot/?lot=7321&au=65
