At first glance, you might think it’s just a 1971 De Tomaso Pantera. But if you look again—really look—you’ll realize this is no ordinary classic. What once began as a sleek Italian-American hybrid has been reimagined into something far more ferocious. The result? A modern-day beast named ADRNLN, an aggressive, sculpted machine that stunned audiences at the 2013 SEMA Show.
This transformation didn’t happen overnight. It took an almost obsessive level of dedication, with countless design sessions, creative debates, and a deep reservoir of craftsmanship. At the heart of it all were the Ringbrothers, known in the custom car world for pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Their vision, fused with the artistic talents of Brian Stupski from Problem Child Kustoms, resulted in a Pantera that doesn’t just turn heads—it stops traffic.
From Pure to Powerful: The De Tomaso Pantera
The original Pantera holds a unique spot in automotive history. Designed by Italian firm Ghia and powered by a Ford V8, it was a fusion of European styling and American muscle. It had its flaws, but also undeniable character. Fast, angular, and exotic, the Pantera always seemed like the kind of car that had untapped potential—if only someone could figure out how to unlock it.
That’s exactly what the Ringbrothers set out to do.
Breathing New Life Into a Legend
Enter ADRNLN. With its wide, planted stance, razor-sharp lines, and intimidating presence, this Pantera isn’t just restored—it’s reimagined. The transformation took what was already a compelling car and elevated it to another level entirely.
This isn’t just about bolting on a body kit or dropping in a bigger engine. The project required an immense amount of forethought and precision. Every curve and crease of the new bodywork reflects a decision made deliberately, a collaboration between designer and builder.
Brian Stupski’s concept sketches were the spark. With a style that merges comic book drama with real-world feasibility, his designs guided the project’s evolution from imagination to execution. These sketches—previously unseen by the public—offered a roadmap for what the Pantera could be, daring the team to rethink everything.
And the Ringbrothers delivered. Known for their obsessive attention to detail and commitment to craftsmanship, they didn’t just replicate the vision—they exceeded it.
Design with Purpose
What stands out most about ADRNLN is the clarity of its design language. From the menacing front fascia to the exaggerated wheel arches and sculpted rear, everything feels intentional. There’s a harmony in the chaos—a feeling that every piece was shaped not just to look good, but to perform.
It’s not just a showpiece, either. The car was built to drive, and drive hard. Underneath the custom exterior lies a monster V8 ready to roar, giving ADRNLN the muscle to match its menace. That blend of aesthetic excellence and mechanical integrity is what makes this build more than just eye candy.
Why It Matters
Projects like ADRNLN remind us of what makes car culture so compelling. It’s not just about horsepower or polish—it’s about imagination, about taking something from one era and giving it a second life with modern tools and ideas.
More importantly, this Pantera reflects the spirit of SEMA itself. The show isn’t just a showcase of cars; it’s a celebration of innovation, creativity, and passion. ADRNLN stands as a symbol of what can happen when builders, artists, and dreamers come together with a shared goal: to create something unforgettable.
The Creative Force Behind the Curtain
While the Ringbrothers executed the physical transformation, Brian Stupski was responsible for the soul of the design. Known in the industry for his ability to visualize wild concepts that are still buildable, his contribution can’t be overstated. His company, Problem Child Kustoms, has become synonymous with inventive yet grounded design—an ideal match for a car like the Pantera.
Looking through his original design sketches is like stepping into the mind of a futurist gearhead. Bold contours, aggressive proportions, and subtle nods to the Pantera’s heritage are all present, but evolved into something more radical. These visuals served not only as inspiration but as a blueprint for the final product.
Legacy in Motion
It’s tempting to think of ADRNLN as the final word on Pantera customization, but in truth, it’s more like the opening chapter of a new story. By setting the bar so high, the Ringbrothers and Stupski have shown what’s possible when vision and skill align.
The custom car world thrives on inspiration, and this Pantera is bound to inspire a new wave of builders to take risks, blend styles, and respect the past while charging headfirst into the future.
So if you’re ever lucky enough to see ADRNLN in person, take a moment to appreciate not just the beauty and power of the machine, but the collaboration, perseverance, and raw creativity that brought it to life.
It’s more than a car. It’s a statement. And it’s loud.
