1976 Panther J72

Description

The Panther J72, produced by Panther Westwinds Ltd. from 1972 to 1981, was a retro-inspired ultra-exclusive luxury roadster designed to evoke the classic pre-war Jaguar SS100. The J72 was the first production vehicle from the British automaker, which was founded by Robert Jankel and Andrew Mackenzie.  

The J72 was built using mechanical components from Jaguar, including options for a 3.8-liter or 4.2-liter XK6 engine, and later a 5.3-liter Jaguar V12. The car was assembled in Weybridge, England, with the chassis supplied by Geoff Jago utilizing a beam front axle, and a Salisbury live rear axle borrowed from a Jaguar Mk2, with engines and gearboxes from Forward Engineering in Coventry. The J72’s body was hand formed from aluminum, while the interior featured luxurious Connolly leather upholstery. Panther Westwinds assembled a collection of artisans, mainly former Rolls-Royce craftsmen, who could do that work to exceptionally high standards.

Tuned to give 190 hp, the 4.2-litre engine gave a top speed of around 115 mph, with 0-60 mph taking around 6.5 seconds. The $26,500 J72 was cherished by a celebrity clientele, including comedian Redd Foxx, singers Freddie Mercury and Sammy Davis Jr., and actress Elizabeth Taylor. Despite the J72’s esteem, only 368 units were produced. 

Highlights 

• One of 368 Panther J72 produced 

• Handcrafted aluminum coachwork 

• Jaguar XJ6 4.2 liter inline-six engine converted to SU carburetors 

• Borg-Warner automatic transmission 

Features 

• Four-wheel disc brakes  

• Moto-Lita wood steering wheel 

• Burl walnut instrument panel with Smith’s gauges 

• Chrome wire wheels with Michelin RainForce MX tires 

• Chrome plated suspension 

• Black canvas top, tonneau cover, and side curtains 

• New bucket seats 

Known Imperfections 

• Paint shows its age with cracking 

• Chips and scratches 

• Front turn signals not installed 

Included 

• Keys 

• Jack and knock-off wrench 

• Original sales brochure 

• Original leather seats  

• Original luggage rack and wind wing 

• Original front turn signals and rear taillights 

• Original wiper arms and blades 

 Ownership History 

The consignor of this rare, handcrafted Panther J72 acquired it in 2024. 

Additional Notes    Sales Tax Notice to Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia Bidders: Because this car is located in Florida, Hagerty Marketplace may be required to collect and remit Florida sales tax on your purchase, even if you plan to register it outside of Florida. Unlike most other states, the states of Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia may not provide a full credit against sales taxes paid to Florida. For additional information, please consult this publication and your own tax advisor regarding sales taxes applicable to cars located in Florida that are sold to residents of another state.