Panther

Year of foundation 1972-1990

 Panther Westwinds, commonly known simply as Panther, was a British automobile manufacturer founded in 1972 by Robert Jankel, an entrepreneur passionate about luxury cars and innovative design. From the outset, the company stood out for producing exclusive, bespoke vehicles, combining modern technology with a retro style inspired by classic cars of the 1930s and 1940s. Its first notable model was the Panther De Ville, a luxurious, powerfully powered sedan designed to appeal to a wealthy and often celebrity clientele, also becoming famous for appearances in films and television shows. In subsequent years, Panther expanded its range with sporty models such as the Panther Lima, an elegant coupé with aerodynamic lines, and the Panther Rio, a compact sedan based on more conventional mechanicals but customized with exclusive details. The company was characterized by its artisanal attention to materials and build quality, offering cars that were as much collector's items as they were means of transportation. Despite the fame and originality of its models, Panther faced financial difficulties in the 1980s due to high production costs and a limited niche market. After several restructurings and changes of ownership, production gradually ceased in the 1990s, leaving a legacy of rare and sought-after vehicles among collector car enthusiasts. Today, Panther is remembered as an example of boldness and creativity in the British automotive landscape, capable of blending luxury, craftsmanship, and period design with modern performance, creating vehicles that remain a symbol of exclusivity and unique style.