Ferrari Mondial 3.2 Quattrovalvole coupé

The rich history of the Ferrari Mondial

The Ferrari Mondial is one of the most underrated gems to come out of Maranello. Launched in 1980 as the successor to the 308 GT4, the Mondial was conceived as a practical yet performance-focused four-seat sports car. The model was designed by Pininfarina and offered a unique combination of a mid-engine layout with both a convertible and a coupé option.

The Mondial 3.2, which arrived on the market in 1985, marked a huge step forward in terms of performance and refinement. This model was powered by a 3.2-litre V8 engine, derived from the legendary 328, delivering a powerful and exhilarating driving experience.

Our Ferrari Mondial 3.2, with its iconic Rosso Corsa paintwork and a manual gearbox, is a tribute to this golden age of Ferrari. This 1986 example has covered 157,251 kilometres and has been kept in excellent condition. With a rich service history and a recently overhauled clutch, this Ferrari is not only a joy to own, but also a joy to drive.

The history of Ferrari's V8 mid-engines

Ferrari's fascination with mid-mounted V8 engines began in the 1970s with the introduction of the Ferrari 308 GT4. This model, with a transversely mounted 3.0-litre V8, marked the start of a legendary series of sports cars focused on driving dynamics and performance. Its successor, the 308 GTB, brought a further evolved version of this engine and introduced Pininfarina's signature design lines.

Through the 1980s, Ferrari continued to refine the technology, with the 328 and the Mondial 3.2 as prominent examples. The engine grew in capacity and power, while balance and handling improved ever further. In the 1990s came the F355, which made the switch to a five-valve head and produced a revolutionary soundtrack. Then followed icons such as the 360 Modena, the F430 and, ultimately, the 458 Italia, all of which took the essence of the Ferrari V8 mid-engine to unprecedented heights.

The Mondial 3.2 is a crucial chapter in this evolution, and a direct descendant of Ferrari's rich tradition of V8 mid-engines. This makes it not only a wonderful driver's car, but also an important piece of automotive history.

The thrill of driving the Ferrari Mondial 3.2

Climb in and immediately feel Ferrari's DNA through the perfectly shaped sports seats and the characteristic three-spoke steering wheel. The 3.2-litre V8 bursts into life with a deep, rousing burble, while you slot the metal shifter through the iconic open H-pattern gate. This is no ordinary car: this is a pure driver's car, a machine that begs to be driven.

The Mondial 3.2 offers a balanced blend of comfort and sportiness. Thanks to its mid-engine architecture and rear-wheel drive, the car feels light-footed and responsive, with direct steering that puts you in full contact with the road. Although some regard the Mondial as an 'entry-level Ferrari', it delivers impressive performance, with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.

3 seconds and a top speed of well over 250 km/h. This Ferrari is anything but slow: it is a car that makes your heart beat faster with every corner and every rousing burst of acceleration.

A unique opportunity to own a beautiful Ferrari

This example of the Ferrari Mondial 3.2 is a true enthusiast's car. It has always been maintained with the utmost care and boasts an excellent service history, complete with a wealth of invoices that testify to the care and attention of previous owners. Last year this Mondial underwent a major service, including a clutch overhaul, which means it is in top technical condition and ready for many carefree kilometres.

In addition, the car comes with the original Ferrari Mondial brochure and the official workshop manual, a rare extra for the true collector. This Ferrari is an outstanding choice for anyone looking for an affordable classic with an authentic Ferrari driving experience.

Between two espressos and a set of keys bearing the cavallino

Nick Slinger

Copywriter · HooG Selections