Ferrari Mondial

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Ferrari Mondial
File:Ferrari Mondial t 001.JPG
Overview
Manufacturer Ferrari
Production 1980–1993
6,149 produced
Assembly Modena, Italy
Designer Pininfarina
Body and chassis
Class Mid-engined sports car
Body style 2+2 coupe
2+2 cabriolet
Related Ferrari 208/308 GTB & GTS
Ferrari 328
Ferrari 348
Chronology
Predecessor Ferrari 208/308 GT4

The Ferrari Mondial is an automobile that was produced by Ferrari from 1980 through 1993. It replaced the 208/308 GT4. The "Mondial" name came from Ferrari's history — the 500 Mondial race car of the early 1950s. Despite its predecessor being Bertone styled, the Mondial saw Ferrari return to Pininfarina for styling. Sold as a mid-sized coupe and, eventually a cabriolet. Conceived as a 'usable' model, offering the practicality of four seats and the performance of a Ferrari. The car had a slightly higher roofline than its stablemates, with a single long door either side, offering easy access and good interior space, reasonable rear legroom while all-round visibility was excellent. The cabriolets also hold the distinction of being the only production automobile in history that has four seats, is rear mid-engined, and is a full convertible.

History

The Mondial, produced in fairly high numbers for a Ferrari, with more than 6,100 produced in its 13-year run, and was one of Ferrari's most commercially successful models. The car body was not built as a monocoque in the same way as a conventional car. The steel outer body was produced by the famous Italian coachbuilder Carrozzeria Scaglietti, in nearby Modena, built over a lightweight steel box-section space frame. The engine cover and rear luggage compartment lids are in light alloy. The seats and interior were trimmed in Connolly hide, contrasting with the body color. Most cars were painted rosso red, but some were black or silver, and a few were dark blue.

The Mondial was the first Ferrari car where the entire engine/gearbox/rear suspension assembly is on a detachable steel subframe. This design made engine removal for a major rebuild or cylinder head removal much easier than it was on previous models. Unusually, the handbrake is situated between the driver's seat and the inner sill. Once the handbrake is set it drops down so as, not to impede egress and ingress. Instead of the conventional "H" shift pattern, the gearbox has 1st gear situated in a "dog leg" to the left and back, behind reverse. This pattern, otherwise known as a "reverse h-gate", allows quicker gear shifts between 2nd and 3rd gear, and also between 4th and 5th.

The Mondial underwent many updates throughout production. There were four distinct iterations (8, QV, 3.2, and t), with the latter 3 having two variations each. (coupe and cabriolet)

Starting with the 1980-1982 Mondial 8, what was intended to serve as the touring car vehicle within the Ferrari lineup, proved to be a disappointment to some Ferrari enthusiasts. Safety requirements also forced Ferrari to install large black colored bumpers that some felt was awkward in design. The automotive press at release was not unanimously critical of the Mondial 8, although retrospective articles have often relegated the Mondial 8 as being overrated. Time magazine went on to include the Mondial 8 as one of the 50 worst cars of all time. Some of the stigma bestowed upon the Mondial line can be traced to a few negative articles.[1]

A common misconception of the Mondial 8 is it was a poor performer. The three major US automotive publications (MotorTrend, Car & Driver, and Road & Track) all published reviews in the fall of 1981. Road & Track and Car & Driver yielded disappointing performance results. Road & Track's reported a faulty shifter which contributed to the poor showing.[2] Car & Driver received a pre-production model which may have contributed to poor performance.[3] MotorTrend's review was much more favorable and had performance on par with the 308 GTBi/GTSi and Porsche 928. There was never any definitive conclusion on the performance disparity, Automobile magazine had suggested not being broken in as being the culprit of their observed 0-60 time.[4] (as the MotorTrend review had a fully broken in sample.)

Ferrari quickly removed any doubt in performance by upgrading the engine just two years later (in 1982) with a new four-valve head. This model is known as the Mondial Quattrovalvole or QV and shared its engine with the contemporary 308 GTB/GTS QV. A new cabriolet version was also introduced which would be carried forward to the two subsequent models. These models were produced between 1982 and 1985. The Quattrovalvole was better received by the automotive press and the public, although some of the previous poor reviews for the Mondial 8 caused negative perceptions that would follow the Mondial line.

The next evolution would be the Mondial 3.2, which saw the engine grow in power again and the styling refreshed. This car enjoys much popularity due to being one of the last Ferraris to have a relatively reliable and approachable maintenance, from a drivetrain common with the 328 and with additional power. Enthusiasts consider the Mondial 3.2 as the best "all around" iteration considering cost of maintenance.

The final model (1989-1993) was the Mondial t. This was the biggest change for the model, with a larger 300-hp engine, a substantial update to the styling and interior ergonomics, and with a completely different powertrain layout. Many consider the Mondial t the best iteration, although at the cost of higher upkeep costs.

Mondial 8

Mondial 8
File:Ferrari Mondial 8 Side View Black.jpg
Overview
Production 1980–1982
Body and chassis
Body style 2+2 coupe
Layout Transverse, mid-engine, rear-wheel drive
Powertrain
Engine 3.0 L Tipo F106B FI V8
Transmission 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,650 mm (104 in)
Length 4,580 mm (180 in)
Width 1,790 mm (70 in)
Height 1,250 mm (49 in)
Curb weight 1,445 kg (3,186 lb)

The Mondial was introduced as the Mondial 8 at the 1980 Geneva Auto Salon.[5] It was the first Ferrari to depart from the company's familiar 3-digit naming scheme and some reviews found it fairly mild, relative to other Ferraris, in terms of performance, drawing criticism from some in the motoring press.[5] It used a mid/rear-mounted Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection V8, shared with the 308 GTBi/GTSi, mounted transversely. The engine was originally used in the 1973 Dino 308 GT4. The K-Jetronic system is mechanical, with a high-pressure pump which streams fuel continuously to the injectors; it does not have a computer, just a few relays to handle the cold start sequence etc. The chassis was also based on the 308 GT4, but with a 100-millimetre-longer (3.9 in) wheelbase at 2,650 mm (104.3 in). The suspension was the classic layout of unequal-length double wishbones and Koni dampers all around.

Today, the Mondial 8 is considered one of the marque's most "practical" vehicles, due to its 214 hp (160 kW), proven drivetrain, four seats, and relatively low cost of maintenance (major services can be performed without removing the entire engine/transmission subframe). 703 examples were made. At the time of release, the base price was $64,000 (1981) (or $167,530 in 2015 dollars.)

The Mondial 8 is often the target of negative perceptions due to what many considered unworthy performance for the marque. Two of the three major US automotive publications (Road & Track, Car and Driver) yielded negative performance results that found the Mondial much slower than the 308 GTBi/GTSi

Road and Track November 1981[2]*(Reported faulty shifter) 0-60: 9.4s 1/4 Mile: 17.1s

Car and Driver November 1981[3]*(Pre production model) 0-60: 9.3s 1/4 Mile: 16.9s

In contradistinction, Motortrend yielded better performance numbers nearing the 308 GTBi/GTSi:

MotorTrend's reported "The Mondial is a wink or two slower than the 308...1/4 mile in the low 16s terminal speeds favor the 308 by 2 MPH", and concluded "The Mondial is not the greatest Ferrari ever issued by Maranello, but it is by no means the least".

Motortrend November 1981[6] 0-60: 8.2 1/4 Mile: 16.2

Mondial 8 Production started: 1980. Production ended: 1982. Total production: 703 (145 Right Hand Drive) First serial number: 31075. Last serial number: 41727.

Comparative Statistics
Model Horsepower Torque 0-60 1/4 Mile Skidpad MSRP Produced Source
1980 Ferrari Mondial 8 (US Spec) 205 @ 6,600 RPM 180 @ 5,000 RPM 8.2 seconds 16.2 seconds .81 $64,000 (1981) $167,530 (2015 Inf Adj) 703 MotorTrend 1981[6]
1975 Ferrari 308 GT4 240 @ 6,600 RPM 195 @ 5,000 RPM 8.0 seconds 16.1 seconds .80 $24,104 (1975) $106,606 (2015 Inf Adj) 2,826 Road & Track 1975[7]
1980 Ferrari 308 GTSi (US Spec) 205 @ 6,600 RPM 180 @ 5,000 RPM 7.9 seconds 16.1 seconds .81 $55,040 (1981) $144,076 (2015 Inf Adj) 494 Road & Track 1981[2]
1975 Lamborghini Urraco P111 (US Spec) 175 @ 7,500 RPM 139 @ 3,750 RPM 10.1 seconds 17.9 seconds .79 $22,750 (1975) $100,618 (2015 Inf Adj) 21 Road & Track 1975[7]
1975 Maserati Merak (US Spec) 180 @ 6,000 RPM 185 @ 3,500 RPM 9.2 seconds 17.1 seconds .79 $22,064 (1975) $97,584 (2015 Inf Adj) 1,830 Road & Track 1975[7]
1981 Porsche 928 (US Spec) 229 @ 5,250 RPM 268 @ 3,600 RPM 8.1 seconds 16.2 seconds .81 $24,104 (1975) $106,606 (2015 Inf Adj) 17,669 Road & Track 1981[2]
1980 Chevrolet Corvette 190 @ 4,400 RPM 280 @ 2,400 RPM 7.6 seconds 15.9 seconds .80 $14,447 (1980) $37,817 (2015 Inf Adj) 542,741 Car and Driver 1980[8]
1980 Aston Martin V8 245 @ 5,000 RPM 350 @ 3,400 RPM 7.8 seconds 15.9 seconds .80 N/A 4,021 Car and Driver 2008[9]

US Spec had lower HP/TQ due to emission regulations

Mondial Quattrovalvole

Mondial QV (Quattrovalvole)
File:Ferrari Mondial QV Convertible.jpg
Overview
Production 1982–1985
Body and chassis
Body style 2+2 coupe
2+2 cabriolet
Layout Transverse, mid-engine, rear-wheel drive
Powertrain
Engine 3.0 L Tipo F105A 32V V8
Transmission 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,650 mm (104 in)
Length 4,580 mm (180 in)
Width 1,790 mm (70 in)
Height 1,260 mm (50 in)
Curb weight 1,430 kg (3,153 lb)

The first Mondial engine, although a DOHC design, used just two valves per cylinder. The 1982 Quattrovalvole or QV introduced a new four-valve head, the combustion chamber design was purportedly based on the early eighties Formula 1 engine. Again, the engine was shared with the contemporary 308 GTB/GTS QV, and produced a much more respectable 240 hp (179 kW). Appearance was largely as per the Mondial 8, although with red engine heads and prominent "quattrovalvole" script at the rear. 1,145 coupés were built between 1982 and 1985.

File:Ferrari Mondial QV Coupe Side View.jpg
Side view of Mondial Quattrovalvole berlinetta

Mondial QV Production started: 1982. Production ended: 1984. Total production: 1,145, (152 Right Hand Drive) First serial number: 48037. Last serial number: 55343.

Mondial Cabriolet

A new Cabriolet bodystyle was added for 1983. Body styling remained the same as the coupé variant, with the roof maintaining the 'buttress' design of the roof, though the Cabriolet required the rear seats to be mounted closer together laterally. The introduction of the Cabriolet saw the popularity of the Mondial rise, particularly in the American market, where the convertible body style was highly desirable. The Cabriolet has the added distinction of being the only four-seat, mid-rear engine, convertible automobile ever manufactured in regular production. 629 units were produced between 1983 and 1985, making this the rarest version of the Mondial.

Mondial QV Cabriolet Production started: 1983. Production ended: 1985. Total production: 629 (27 Right Hand Drive) First serial number: 47247. Last serial number: 59163.

Comparative Statistics Coupes
Model Horsepower Torque 0-60 1/4 Mile Skidpad MSRP Produced Source
1982 Mondial QV Coupe (Non US Version) 240 @ 7,000 RPM 192 @ 5,000 RPM 6.4 seconds 14.5 seconds .81 $66,180 (1984) $151,561 (2015 Inf Adj) 1,145 Motor 1982[10]
Aston Martin Volante 306 @ 5,000rpm 350 l@ 3,000 rpm 8.9 seconds 16.8 seconds .68 $120,000 (1984) $274,816 (2015 Inf Adj) 4,021 Road and Track 1984[11]
1984 Ferrari 308 Quattrovalvole 230 @ 7,000 RPM 188 @ 5,000 RPM 7.3 seconds 15.4 seconds .91 $50,000 (1984) $114,506 (2015 Inf Adj) 748 Edmunds 2007[12]
1982 Ferrari 400i 310 @ 6,400 RPM 289 @ 4,200 RPM 7.1 seconds 15.4 seconds .77 $77,100 (1982) $190,109 (2015 Inf Adj) 502 Road and Track 1982[13]
1984 Chevrolet Corvette 205 @ 4,300 RPM 290 @ 2,800 RPM 6.7 seconds 15.2 seconds .90 $28,000 (1984) $64,124 (2015 Inf Adj) 366,227 Car and Driver 1984[14]
Comparative Statistics Convertibles
Model Horsepower Torque 0-60 1/4 Mile Skidpad MSRP Produced Source
1984 Mondial QV Cabriolet (US Version) 230 @ 6,800 RPM 188 @ 5,500 RPM 7.6 seconds 16.0 seconds .81 $68,000 (1982) $167,671 (2015 Inf Adj) 629 Road and Track 1984[15]
1984 911SC Cabriolet 172 @ 5,500 RPM 189 @ 4,200 RPM 7.0 seconds 15.5 seconds .81 $37,010 (1984) $84,758 (2015 Inf Adj) Road and Track 1984[15]
  • US Versions have less HP to meet emissions standards

Mondial 3.2

Mondial 3.2
File:Ferrari Mondial 3.2 Side View.jpg
Overview
Production 1985–1988
Body and chassis
Body style 2+2 coupe
2+2 cabriolet
Layout Transverse, mid-engine, rear-wheel drive
Powertrain
Engine 3.2 L Tipo F105C 4v V8
Transmission 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,650 mm (104 in)
Length 4,535 mm (179 in)
Width 1,795 mm (71 in)
Height 1,235 mm (49 in)
1,265 mm (50 in) (Cabriolet)
Curb weight 1,410 kg (3,109 lb)
1,400 kg (3,086 lb) (Cabriolet)

Like the new Ferrari 328, the Mondial's engine grew in both bore and stroke to 3.2 L (3,185 cc) in 1985. Output was now 270 PS (199 kW; 266 hp). The Mondial 3.2 was first presented at the 1985 Frankfurt Auto Show in September that year.[16]

File:Ferrari Mondial 3.2 Cabriolet.jpg
Ferrari Mondial 3.2 Cabriolet

Available in both Coupé and Cabriolet forms, styling was refreshed with restyled and body-coloured bumpers, similar to the 328 with more integrated indicators and driving lamps, and new alloy wheels with a more rounded face. The 3.2 also boasted a major interior update, with a more ergonomic layout and a more rounded instrument binnacle. Later cars, from 1987 onwards, also sported ABS brakes. Fuel injection remained the primarily mechanical Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) with an O2 sensor in the exhaust providing feedback to a simple computer for mixture trimming via a pulse modulated frequency valve that regulated control fuel pressure. Ignition system was Marelli Microplex, with electronic advance control and one distributor per bank of the V8. The 1988 Mondial 3.2 would be the final model year that retained the relatively low maintenance costs of the 308/328 drivetrain, allowing major service items like timing belt and clutch replacement to be performed with the engine/transmission package still in the car.

3.2 Mondial Coupe Production started: 1985. Production ended: 1988. Total production: 987 (91 Right Hand Drive) First serial number: 59165. Last serial number: 79671.

3.2 Mondial Cabriolet Production started: 1985. Production ended: 1988. Total production: 810, (57 Right Hand Drive) First serial number: 59393. Last serial number: 78895.

Comparative Statistics Coupes
Model Horsepower Torque 0-60 1/4 Mile Skidpad MSRP Source
1987 Mondial 3.2 Coupe (US Version) 260 @ 7,000 RPM 213 @ 5,500 RPM 6.3 seconds 14.6 seconds .82 $73,200 (1987) $153,323 (2015 Inf Adj) Car and Driver 1987[17]
1987 BMW M6 256 @ 6,500 RPM 243 @ 4,500 RPM 6.1 seconds 14.7 seconds .77 $58,720 (1987) $122,994 (2015 Inf Adj) Car and Driver 1987[18]
1985 Chevrolet Corvette 230 @ 6,500 RPM 330 @ 4,500 RPM 6.0 seconds 14.5 seconds .90 Car and Driver 1984[19]
1988 Porsche 928 S4 Euro Version 320 @ 6,000 RPM 317 @ 3,000 RPM 6.4 seconds 15.0 seconds .82 $63,500 (1988) $127,722 (2015 Inf Adj) Motor 1988[20]
Comparative Statistics Convertibles
Model Horsepower Torque 0-60 1/4 Mile Skidpad MSRP Source
1987 Mondial 3.2 Cabriolet (US Version) 260 @ 7,000 RPM 213 @ 5,500 RPM 7.6 seconds 15.2 seconds .84 $78,100 (1987) $163,587 (2015 Inf Adj) Road and Track 1987[21]
  • US Versions have less HP to meet emissions standards

Mondial t

Mondial t
File:Mondial t 1.jpg
Overview
Production 1989–1993
Body and chassis
Body style 2+2 coupe
2+2 cabriolet
Layout Longitudinal, mid-engine, rear-wheel drive
Powertrain
Engine 3.4 L Tipo F119DL V8
3.4 L Tipo F119G V8
Transmission 5-speed manual
Valeo auto-manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,650 mm (104 in)
Length 4,535 mm (179 in)
Width 1,810 mm (71 in)
Height 1,235 mm (49 in)
Curb weight 1,426 kg (3,144 lb)
1,468 kg (3,236 lb) (Cabriolet)

The final Mondial evolution was 1989's Mondial t (Coupe and Cabriolet). It was a substantially changed model, "spearhead of a new generation of V8 Ferraris", according to Road & Track magazine. It was visually different from preceding Mondial models, the most recognisable being the redesign of the air intakes to a smaller rectangular shape. Additionally, the door-handles were of a visually different design, as were the front and rear bumpers which became body coloured. New front and rear wings cover wider tracks and are re-profiled to a fuller shape compared to preceding models, which feature a rolled lip.

The 't' called attention to the car's new engine/transmission layout: the previously-transverse engine was now mounted longitudinally whilst the gearbox remained transverse, thus forming a 't'. By adopting this layout, a longer engine could be mounted lower in the chassis, improving handling dramatically. The 't' configuration was used by Ferrari's Formula One cars of the 1980s, and would be the standard for the marque's future mid-engined V8 cars, beginning with the 348, introduced later in the year. The transverse manual gearbox was fitted with a Limited Slip Differential with a twin-plate clutch design with bevel gears driving the wheels. Later in production, a Semi-automatic transmission termed "Valeo" was available as an option; while shifting was by means of a traditional gear lever, the clutch was actuated automatically without a clutch pedal. The engine was up to 3.4 L (3405 cc) and 300 hp (224 kW). The engine was now controlled by Bosch Motronic DME 2.5 (later DME 2.7) electronic engine management that integrated EFI and ignition control into a single computer unit. Two of these were used in the car: one for each bank of the engine. Engine lubrication was upgraded to a dry-sump system.

The Mondial's chassis would underpin a new generation of 2-seat Ferraris, right up to the 360, but the 2+2 Mondial would end production just four and a half years later in 1993. However, the "t" layout of the engine and transaxle, adapted from Ferrari's Formula One cars, continues to be used in mid-engined V8 model Ferraris to date, albeit with a more sophisticated chassis. The new layout saw the engine and transmission mounted on a removable subframe; the assembly could be removed through the underside of the vehicle for maintenance. This is necessary for timing belt replacement, making this a costly procedure for the owner who does not have a lift. On the other hand, the clutch was now located at the very rear of the drive train. This makes clutch replacement and service a simple, inexpensive, and readily owner-doable proposition.

The "t" was home to other Ferrari firsts: It used power assisted steering for the first time, and had a 3-position electronically controlled suspension for a variable trade off between ride quality and road holding. It also had standard ABS.

The Mondial t represented the most substantial upgrade to the Mondial model line in performance and handling since its introduction in 1980. Previous Mondials had rarely justified their price premium over the competition in terms of bare performance statistics, which led to some poor press coverage. The "t" offered greater performance whilst retaining a mid-engined layout and a practical packaging layout, and was favorably received. It also had the advantage of two usable rear seats.

The company has not produced a mid-engined 2+2 car since then, leaving the 2+2 configuration to the more classic front-engined design starting with the 456 in 1992. As of 2012, the V12 FF along with the V8 California are the company's only 4-seat vehicle offerings, but both of these are front engined, leaving the Mondial t as the most modern 4-seat, mid-engined, Ferrari yet produced.

Mondial t Coupe Production started: 1988. Production ended: 1993. Total production: 858 (45 Right Hand Drive) First serial number: 79596. Last serial number: 97698.

Mondial t Cabriolet Production started: 1989. Production ended: 1993. Total production: 1,017 (51 Right Hand Drive) 379 were imported into the United States/Canada First serial number: 80399. Last serial number: 97733.

Comparative Statistics Coupes
Model Horsepower Torque 0-60 1/4 Mile Skidpad MSRP Produced Source
1989 Ferrari Mondial t Coupe (Euro Version) 300 @ 7,000 RPM 229 @ 4,000 RPM 5.6 seconds 14.2 seconds .89 $94,000 (1991) $164,220 (2015 Inf Adj) 858 Autocar 1998[22]
1991 BMW 850i 296 @ 5,200 RPM 332 @ 4,100 RPM 6.3 seconds 14.9 seconds .82 $98,000 (1991) $158,816 (2015 Inf Adj) 31,062 Car and Driver 1991[23]
1990 Ferrari 348ts 296 @ 7,000 RPM 224 @ 4,000 RPM 6.0 seconds 14.4 seconds .90 $103,400 (1991) $180,642 (2015 Inf Adj) 4,228 Car and Driver 1991[24]
1989 Aston Martin Virage 330 @ 6,000 RPM 350 @ 4,000 RPM 6.7 seconds N/A N/A $150,000 (1991) $262,054(2015 Inf Adj) 1,050 Supercars.net[25]
Comparative Statistics Convertibles
Model Horsepower Torque 0-60 1/4 Mile Skidpad MSRP Produced Source
1989 Ferrari Mondial t Cabriolet (US Version) 296 @ 7,000 RPM 224 @ 4,000 RPM 6.2 seconds 14.5 seconds .85 $97,000 (1991) $170,000 (2015 Inf Adj) 1,017 Car and Driver 1990[26]
1990 Jaguar XJ-S Convertible 296 @ 5,200 RPM 332 @ 4,100 RPM 7.5 seconds 16.0 seconds N/A $70,000 (1991) $122,292(2015 Inf Adj) 12,372 Automobile Catalog[27]
1989 Mercedes Benz SL500 322 @ 5,500 RPM 354 @ 3,200 RPM 6.3 seconds 14.7 seconds .82 $82,000 (1991) $143,256 (2015 Inf Adj) 213,089 zeroto60times.com[better source needed][28]
1990 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet 247 @ 6,100 RPM 228 @ 4,800 RPM 5.3 seconds 14.3 seconds .86 $80,257 (1991) $140,211 (2015 Inf Adj) 4,802 Car and Driver 1991 [29]
1989 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible 244 @ 4,300 RPM 345 @ 3,800 RPM 5.8 seconds 14.4 seconds .88 $41,331 (1991) $72,206 (2015 Inf Adj) 366,227 Car and Driver 1989[30]
  • US Versions have less HP to meet emissions standards

PPG Pace Car

The Mondial-based Ferrari PPG Pace Car was built exclusively for PPG Industries to use as a safety car for the PPG Indy Car World Series as part of its pace car program. Built by Ferrari under the design of I.DE.A Institute at a cost of approximately $1 million, it was introduced at the 1989 Champion Spark Plugs 300 in Laguna Seca.[31]

In 2004, one of its examples was offered at a Christie's auction held during the 2004 24 Hours of Le Mans, where it was sold for €70,500.[31]

Legacy

With its one of a kind Pininfarina derived design; everyday versatility, the Mondial has amassed a cult following of enthusiasts. It historically has not received broad admiration however and is sometimes the target of derision due to what many consider the compromises (4 seats and heavier weight) Ferrari undertook creating the car in both form and function. Some early negative reviews for the first model, the Mondial 8, has often been repeated by derivative articles that further tarnished the Mondial image across the subsequent six iterations.

Many current enthusiasts have actually welcomed the negative views, as it has allowed the price of the model to remain relatively stable and Ferrari ownership and/or parts manageable, many speculate (and some lament) that it will inevitably rise significantly in value.[32]

The Mondial has also garnered more positive press in recent media.

"The Mondial has been the perennial underdog Ferrari along with the V-12 400i/412. Both are having the last laugh, but Mondial prices in particular have been climbing. Offered in 2+2 coupe and convertible body styles, the Mondial shares the revvy 308/328/348 flat-plane crank V-8 with all of the visceral thrills that entails. Striking Pininfarina looks, decent reliability, Ferrari sounds and room in back for the kids? What’s not to like?" -Hagerty - August 2015

"..the V8 sings and the chassis is a delight, with many thinking it sweeter in the ride and handling than the equivalent two-seat models...Find a good one and you’ll get one of Ferrari’s most reliable and inexpensive cars." -Mark Pearson "Autocar" May 2015

"The Mondial might be a four-seat GT car on paper, but it's still a mid-engined screaming Ferrari at Heart." -Terry Shea "Hemmings Sports & Exotic Car" August 2014

"The Mondial is a highly usable, underrated Ferrari with good parts availability..." -Malcom McKay - "Classic Sports Car" June 2013

"Ferrari Mondial makes an excellent practical classic Ferrari. With four seats, a comfortable ride, that quintessential Ferrari sound track and in later forms - impressive handling and performance, the Mondial represents excellent value for the money." -"Italia" July 2012

In 2012, Top Gear reviewed a 1980 Mondial 8, nominating the Mondial and the F50 as the two Ferrari contenders for "The Worst car in the history of the world." James May compared it to "Lennon & McCartney's Eggman - rubbish," criticised the performance, handling and interior space, and stated that anybody who bought one would be "bitterly disappointed". Jeremy Clarkson decided that the F50 was a "worse catastrophe in Ferrari's history".[33]

In 2015, a pristine 1991 Mondial t coupe sold for €95,200 + 12% buyers premium + 19% VAT = €126,884, or approximately $142,000 US Dollars[34]

References

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  33. "The Worst car in the history of the world", chapter 5, 12:29
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