This 1970 DeTomaso Mangusta is a late-production car with retractable headlights that was purchased new in Peoria, Illinois by a Mr. Dantz, who traded in his 1968 Corvette towards the new price of $9k. The car remained in the original owner’s collection until 2016, when it was acquired by the seller. The odometer now shows fewer than 13k miles, and power is provided by a mid-mounted 302ci Ford V8 paired with a 5-speed ZF transaxle. Factory equipment includes independent suspension, 4-wheel disc brakes, air conditioning, and power windows. The seller has only added a handful of miles, and a service during his ownership included replacement of fuel and coolant hoses, as well the installation of a new fuel pump. This Mangusta is now offered with the original sales invoice and tool pouch, service records, and a clean California title in the seller’s name.

Styling was by Giorgetto Giugiaro during his time at Carrozzeria Ghia, and the bodywork is steel. Standing just 43″ tall, the car features a steeply-raked windshield, bumper-less nose, and distinct center-hinged gullwing engine covers. Production of the Mangusta, a model name that took aim at the Shelby Cobra, totaled just 401 cars.

This example was repainted in the factory red in 1986 after damage occurred on the right rear corner. Closeups of the trim, glass, and panel fit are provided in the gallery below, along with the invoice from the repaint.

Late-production models such as this car received retractable single-bulb headlights in place of the fixed dual headlights fitted earlier in production, which was a response to US-market regulations. Standard equipment includes power-assisted vented disc brakes at each corner, as well as independent suspension and staggered-width magnesium wheels.

The fixed-back seats are upholstered in black leather with pleated inserts, and the tall center console houses the Mangusta’s backbone chassis. Closeups of the leather upholstery, matching carpet, and headliner are provided in the gallery.

Veglia gauges feature green lettering with DeTomaso logos on the speedometer and tachometer. The driver is met with a Ferrero wheel and matching wood knob atop a gated shifter. Fewer than 12,800 miles are shown on the odometer.

The mid-mounted 302ci Ford V8 is equipped with a single 4-barrel carburetor and a quad-tip Ansa exhaust. Power is routed through a 5-speed ZF transaxle, and service work performed within the past few years has included a carburetor cleaning and the installation of new hoses and a fuel pump.

Underside photos have been provided in the gallery below, and a walk-around video showing the floors, exhaust, and suspension can be viewed here.

The original sales invoice accompanies the sale, along with the owner’s manual, tool pouch, and spare tire. A video of the car running can be viewed here, and a ride-along video is attached below.