Nearly five years before the iconic McLaren F1, another groundbreaking mid-engine car emerged from England, promising to revolutionize the sports car market.
Despite not being as widely recognized as other British sports car manufacturers like Lotus or Jaguar, Panther had ambitious plans to make its mark in the industry. Under the leadership of Young Chull Kim, Panther transformed in the early 1980s, shifting its focus towards modernizing its lineup.
The Panther Solo project exemplified this new direction, aiming to introduce an affordable mid-engine sports car to the market. While the initial prototype faced challenges competing with other budget-friendly sports cars, Panther pivoted to develop a more upscale, 2+2 GT-style version.
The resulting Panther Solo 2, revealed at the 1987 Frankfurt Motor Show, boasted enhanced styling, aerodynamics, and performance. Equipped with a Cosworth-powered turbocharged engine and four-wheel drive, it offered a thrilling driving experience despite its modest performance figures.
However, internal struggles and management issues plagued the production process, leading to delays and increased costs. By the time the Solo 2 reached production, it faced stiff competition and dwindling demand, ultimately resulting in its discontinuation in 1991 after a short-lived production run.
Though it failed to achieve commercial success, the Panther Solo 2 remains a testament to British automotive innovation and ambition, embodying the spirit of a bygone era.
