Former Mexican President Gustavo Díaz Ordaz’s De Tomaso Mangusta

During his time as President of Mexico, Gustavo Díaz Ordaz Bolaños took delivery of this very De Tomaso Mangusta in May of 1969.

One of just 401 examples produced, this Mangusta retains its numbers matching engine and chassis.

Of the 401 Mangustas made, however, this one is believed to be one of just 150 to be fitted with both twin headlights and the more desirable 289 cubic-inch Ford V8. (Instead of the more commonplace 302 cubic-inch V8.)

Find this 1969 De Tomaso Mangusta for auction from at Bonhams, with an estimated value of $280,000-$390,000.

Why is the 289 ci V8 more desirable than the 302 ci?

306 HP from the 289, 230 hp from 302.

In reply to DrJ :

Good question (because I was curious, too).

Per the seller, the 289 was slightly more powerful. The 289 was rated at 306 horsepower, while the 302 was rated at 271 horsepower.

EDIT: You beat me to the answer to your question.