De Tomaso Longchamp Classic Cars for Sale
The De Tomaso Longchamp was a car produced by Italian manufacturer De Tomaso between the years of 1972 and 1989.
History of the De Tomaso Longchamp
The De Tomaso Longchamp can be traced back to 1972 when it was introduced at the prestigious Turin Motor Show. At first, the design was only offered as a two-door 2.2 coupe. The frame was said to have been influenced by the dimensions of the Lancia Marica (produced by Tom Tjaarda). While the primary design remained virtually the same throughout the remainder of the 1970s, 1980 ushered in some slight changes. A wider wheel base as well as improvements in its suspension were some of its defining characteristics.
A slight problem was soon encountered when the supply of American-built 351 V8 engines was no longer available. The production of the De Tomaso Longchamp was thereafter reallocated to Australia. This is where the units were shipped from until the ultimate demise of the line in 1989.
Special Characteristics of the De Tomaso Longchamp
Many historians have observed that the De Tomaso Longchamp borrowed several of its features from other vehicles. For example, its tail lights were the exact same used on the Alfa Romeo 1750/2000 series. The headlamps were taken from the Ford Granada. The 351 Cleveland V8 engine was also present within the Pantera and other muscle cars built during the 1960s.
Due to the size of the engine, the De Tomaso Longchamp was noted for its impressive power output. Boasting approximately 330 horsepower, the car was able to reach top speeds of 240 kilometres per hour (149 miles per hour). While most were produced with a three-speed automatic transmission, there were five that had been equipped with a five-speed manual ZF gearbox. Independent suspension ensured a smooth ride over uneven surfaces while power-assisted steering and disc brakes added to superior levels of control. In a slight contrast to such power, the De Tomaso Longchamp had a luxurious interior. Many surfaces were covered with leather and users could enjoy a very unique driving experience.
End of Production
409 models of the De Tomaso Longchamp were ultimately produced between 1972 and 1989. Of these, 395 were coupes and 14 were the "spyder" variant. However, many will note that production slowed down dramatically during the last few years. It has even been rumoured that 1986 was the last year that new units were built. The remainder of sales represented those that were already in stock. Although the exact origin of the name is unknown, it is believed that "Longchamp" was derived from a city of the same name. This was quite close to the birthplace of Alejandro de Tomaso in Buenos Aires.