The coachbuilder and tuner first announced their coachbuilt creation, called Project Panther, in February. Built on the base of a Lamborghini Huracán, The panther's design is inspired by the De Tomaso Pantera, which explains the name. The concept is nearing conclusion and has been sent to their Modena-based headquarters for testing. The test drivers in that location have greater experience and time behind professional wheels than most locations, making it a perfect choice for a vehicle of this level.
Under the hood, the Huracán has the original 5.2-liter V-10 engine upped to 5.6-liter displacement. This raises the horsepower to a punchy 650 from the previous 601 hp. Torque remains the same at 413 pound-feet. All of these specs are subject to change as development continues, however.
Ares is looking to improve throttle response and precision shifting with sharper extracts from the original seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The tuner is also modifying the exhaust to ensure a truly unique sound.
“Within just six months of announcing the Panther project we have our test car on the road and are ready to present to the world our expression of a car that I dreamt of as a kid. The Ares Panther will be the perfect blend of old-school charm and charisma, underpinned with an iconic modern chassis and clothed in full carbon.”
A modest 21 examples of the Panther will be built. Each one will cost $600,000 and have already been preordered in their entirety. This doesn't include the cost of a donor Huracán. Production begins later this year, lasting for around 24 weeks.
