De Tomaso Mangusta
The Italian mongoose designed to kill the Cobra.
- Power
- 306 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.9 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
- Est. value
- $215k–$435k
About the De Tomaso Mangusta
The De Tomaso Mangusta is a landmark of 1960s supercar design, featuring Giorgetto Giugiaro's striking 'gullwing' engine covers that open from a central spine. Named after the mongoose—the only animal capable of killing a cobra—it was Alejandro de Tomaso's defiant response to a failed partnership with Carroll Shelby. While its mid-mounted Ford V8 provided reliable American muscle, the chassis was notoriously under-developed, leading to a significant rear-weight bias and challenging handling at the limit. Despite these flaws, its low-slung silhouette and rarity make it one of the most desirable Italian-American hybrids of the era.
De Tomaso Mangusta specs
The De Tomaso Mangusta produces 306 bhp (228 kW) and 533 Nm (393 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | De Tomaso |
|---|---|
| Model | Mangusta |
| Trim | 4.7 V8 |
| Years | 1967–1971 |
| Type | Supercar |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Italy |
| Production | About 401 built |
| Original price | About $11,000 when new |
| Engine | 4.7-litre Ford 289 HiPo V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,728 cc (4.7 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 306 bhp (228 kW) at 6,100 rpm |
| Torque | 533 Nm (393 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,800 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.9 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,300 kg (2,866 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 235 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a De Tomaso Mangusta worth?
A typical De Tomaso Mangusta is estimated to be worth $215,000 – $435,000 (about £160,000 – £324,000).
Its original price when new was about $11,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
De Tomaso Mangusta rarity in CarSpot
The De Tomaso Mangusta is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
De Tomaso Mangusta fun facts
- The Mangusta's name was a direct jab at Carroll Shelby after he withdrew from the P70 racing project to focus on the Ford GT40.
- Early European models used the high-revving 289 V8, while US-market cars were fitted with a less powerful 302 V8 to meet emissions standards.
- The car's unique rear engine covers are hinged in the middle, meaning you can only access one side of the engine bay at a time.