Quick Facts
• Location: Kitchener, Ontario
• Asking Price: CAD$26,000
• Mileage: 50,000 km reported
• Engine: Built 1776cc flat-four
• Transmission: 4-speed manual
• Production: One of 610 built, <300 imported to North America
• Recent History: Previously offered on BaT August 2021
• Notable Features: Complete restoration, fresh paint, rebuilt engine
Introduction
Brazil’s automotive scene might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of sports cars, but Puma carved out a unique niche in automotive history. Starting life as Lumimari in 1963 before becoming Puma in 1964, this innovative company specialized in creating fiberglass-bodied sports cars using proven mechanical components from established manufacturers.
The Vehicle
Now appearing for sale in Kitchener, Ontario is a 1981 Puma GTI, representing a rare opportunity in the North American market. According to the seller, this example features:
• Complete restoration with fresh silver base coat/clear coat paint
• Built 1776cc flat-four engine with reportedly less than 2,500km
• Black interior in excellent condition
• Four-speed manual transmission
• 50,000 kilometers from new
• One-owner history
Market History and Analysis
This specific Puma has an interesting market history. In August 2021, it appeared on Bring a Trailer from Cambridge, Ontario, showing 48,000 kilometers. While it reached USD$15,250 (approximately CAD$20,500), it did not meet reserve. The current CAD$26,000 asking price reflects both market evolution and reported improvements.
Recent comparable sales include:
• January 2024: 1981 Puma GTI – USD$6,200 (CAD$8,350), Ontario
• November 2023: 1978 Puma GTE 1600 Coupé – USD$17,906 (CAD$24,100)
• July 2023: 1980 Puma GTS Convertible – No sale at Mecum Auctions
Value Considerations
Market data from classic.com shows Puma values ranging from USD$6,200 to USD$40,000 (CAD$8,350 to CAD$53,900), with an average transaction price of USD$19,152 (CAD$25,800). According to the seller, this example’s comprehensive restoration and mechanical upgrades justify its positioning near the market average.
Ownership Experience
As stated in the current sale listing on Facebook Marketplace, this Puma GTI generates significant public interest. “No matter where I go,” the seller notes, “I constantly see people taking photos, and when I do get a chance to slip into a parking lot it doesn’t take long for people to gather around and ask questions.”
Maintenance & Parts Considerations
Mechanical Servicing
• VW-based drivetrain offers straightforward maintenance
• Local VW specialists can handle most mechanical work
• Fiberglass body eliminates traditional rust concerns
• Regular maintenance similar to period VW vehicles
Parts Sourcing
Mechanical Components:
• Engine and transmission parts through VW suppliers
• Brake and suspension components readily available
• Standard service items easily sourced locally
Puma-Specific Items:
• Body panels and trim require knowledgeable specialists
• Interior components may need custom fabrication
• Glass and lighting through South American networks
• Badges and emblems via specialist vendors
Community Resources
Owner Groups
• Puma Owners Group on Facebook
• Brazilian Classic Cars Forum
• VW-Based Specials Groups
• Classic.com Puma sale listings
Club Support
• Brazilian Car Club of North America
• Local Classic VW Clubs
• Ontario Classic Car Community
• International Puma Owner Networks
Investment Potential
Market Trends 2021-2024
• Growing appreciation for 1980s sports cars
• Increased interest in South American classics
• Rising values for limited-production vehicles
• Strong demand for turnkey restored and well preserved examples
Value Drivers
• Documented restoration quality
• Original matching numbers
• Complete ownership history
• North American market premium
• Limited production numbers
Future Market Outlook
The Puma GTI market shows promising signs for collectors and enthusiasts:
• Emerging collector interest in Brazilian classics
• Strong potential for continued appreciation
• Limited supply supporting value stability
• Growing recognition in major online and live auction markets
Conclusion
This 1981 Puma GTI represents a unique opportunity in the classic car market. With its comprehensive restoration, documented history, and rare status in North America, it offers an interesting alternative to more common European sports cars of the era. At CAD$26,000, it presents a distinctive entry point into the growing market for unique and fun 1970s-1980s sports cars.
Update: the more you look, the more you find! About a week ago, this specimen came to market on Facebook Marketplace.
NOTE: All specifications are subject to verification upon inspection.
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