Launched at the 1970 Turin Motor Show, the Deauville was intended as a rival to the likes of Jaguar's XJ12 and Maserati's Quattroporte. The work of American-born stylist Tom Tjaarda whilst at Ghia, its handsome well-proportioned bodywork clothed all-round independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes. Powered by a 5763cc Cleveland V8 engine allied to C6 three-speed automatic transmission (both sourced from Ford), the newcomer was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 7.6 seconds and nigh on 145mph. Evolving through two series over the course of a fifteen-year long production run, just 244 Deauvilles are thought to have been sold.

Decidedly scarce in right-hand drive, this example is finished in Rosso-Metallizo and trimmed using Beige leather with Chocolate velour inserts. Last taxed for UK road use some two decades ago, the De Tomaso remains on the DVLA database under the registration number 'RYW 507R'. Part of a Continental collection in recent years, the Deauville is described by the vendor as being in 'average overall' condition. Though, he rates the paintwork as 'good' and tells us that the luxury saloon is 'smooth and powerful to drive'. A rare and attractive motorcar that surely deserves to be returned to its former glory?