De Tomaso P70 Shelby Feud Car Sale – RM Sotheby’s
Teh 1965 De Tomaso P70: A Racing Icon Heads to Auction
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The De Tomaso P70 is a name whispered with reverence among motorsport enthusiasts. A stunning blend of italian design and American power, this rare prototype represents a pivotal moment in racing history. Now, a meticulously restored example is set to cross the auction block at RM Sotheby’s Monterey sale on August 15, 2025, offering a onc-in-a-lifetime possibility for collectors. Let’s delve into the interesting story of this exceptional machine.
A Brief History of the De Tomaso P70
Born from a collaboration between Alejandro de Tomaso and Carroll Shelby, the P70 was conceived in the mid-1960s as a challenger to Ford’s dominant GT40 program. De Tomaso envisioned a lightweight, high-performance sports racer, and Shelby, with his extensive racing knowledge, was brought on board to help develop the chassis and suspension.
However, the project faced numerous hurdles. Shelby ultimately left to focus on the Ford GT40, and funding proved difficult to secure. Only a handful of P70s were ever constructed,making them incredibly rare and desirable today.
The Design and Engineering Marvel
The P70’s striking design is the work of renowned Italian coachbuilder Fantuzzi. Its sleek, aerodynamic body, crafted from aluminum, is a testament to the era’s pursuit of speed and elegance. Beneath the skin lies a tubular chassis and a powerful 7.0-liter V8 engine, originally intended to be a Ford unit but later sourced from a Chevrolet Corvette.
This combination resulted in a car capable of impressive performance, though its racing career was limited due to the aforementioned development challenges. The P70’s beauty and rarity have cemented its status as a collector’s dream.
recent Appearances and Restoration
For years, the P70 remained largely unseen.It first surfaced in unfinished form at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering in 2005, hinting at its potential. A notable turning point came in April 2013 when the car changed ownership.
The new owner embarked on a comprehensive restoration, aiming to bring the P70 back to its former glory.This painstaking process involved meticulously researching original specifications and sourcing authentic parts. The result is a stunningly accurate and beautifully presented example of this iconic racer.
The restored P70 made a triumphant return to The Quail in 2013, earning the prestigious motor Trend Editor’s Choice Award as a tribute to Peter Brock.Further accolades followed, including being named Best Post-War Racing Car at the 2016 event. That same year, it was also showcased at the esteemed amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, solidifying its place among the world’s finest automobiles.
Auction Details and Estimated Value
This exceptional 1965 De Tomaso P70 is now available for purchase through RM Sotheby’s at their Monterey sale on Friday,August 15,2025. The auction house estimates the car will fetch between $750,000 and $1 million, and it will be offered at no reserve.
This presents a unique opportunity for collectors to acquire a piece of automotive history. with its stunning design, fascinating backstory, and recent restoration, the P70 is sure to attract significant attention from bidders worldwide.You can find more detailed information about the auction and the car itself here. Don’t miss your chance to own a legend.