All Hail The Ares Panther’s Pop-Up Headlights - And 641bhp V10

You’re looking at the first new supercar in decades to wear pop-up headlights, but now we also know that there’s serious bite to back up the Ares Panther’s bark.

The supercar, which, as we reported last year, is based on a Lamborghini Huracan but takes the De Tomaso Pantera as its inspiration; hence the ultra-cool pop-ups. It’s the first in Ares’ planned ‘Legends Reborn’ line of reimagined supercars from yesteryear. Production is limited to 21 cars.

We now know that the mid-mounted V10 has been enlarged from 5.2 litres to 5.6, helping the modified beauty achieve at least 641bhp and 413lb ft. More is possible after final testing is complete, says the company.

In a sign of just how aggressive Ares is going with the Panther, throttle response is said to be faster than the standard Huracan’s and the seven-speed twin-clutch gearbox delivers sharper shifts.

Ares Design Technical Director Matteo Vezzani said:

“This car is a showcase of ARES DESIGN’s capabilities. From the very first statement of intent to the shakedown, people have been fascinated by this project and I totally understand why. One of the most significant characteristics of the ARES Panther is its voice.

“The sound produced from the naturally aspirated V10 engine is nothing short of a roar. Super sporty, throaty and head turning, the team have done an incredible job in creating a stunning sounding, beautiful looking car.”

These new details have been released as the car nears its production phase. Test drivers are said to be giving the car its final shakedown before the plans are signed off and built. Prices start at €515,000, but will rise quickly with options and bespoke changes. The Huracan starts at about a quarter of that.

Each car will take about 24 weeks to build, depending on the level of customisation complexity requested by the customer. Everything from the design to the build and the customisation will be carried out at the firm’s new 18,000sq ft Modena facility.