May 21, 2009

Ferrari Mondial

A little history

The Ferrari Mondial 8 replaced the Dino-born 308 GT4 in 1980. The questionable Bertone styling of the later gave way to a nicer Pininfarina design, but the need for a relatively long wheelbase still made it difficult for the Mondial to be a true beauty.

Born as a 3.0-litre coupe, the Mondial was also offered as a convertible starting in 1983, before receiving a 3.2-litre engine in 1985. In 1989, an updated Mondial t was introduced. Though roughly similar to the previous Mondials, the “t” saw its transversal engine turned by 90 degrees, becoming longitudinal while the gearbox remained transversal. This peculiar layout had been pioneered by a few Formula One Ferraris a few years before, and justified the “t” name. A brand new electronically-controlled suspension was another new feature. On the outside, the Mondial t was also modernized, finally giving up the busy and somewhat ungainly side air intakes of its predecessors and receiving cleaner, more discreet openings. Broadly criticized when first launched, the Mondial had finally reached maturity in its final incarnation. Nevertheless, its production was suspended in 1993, without receiving a direct replacement.

(This car’s history will be expanded in due time, please be patient.)

About the model

A graceful model that I regularly confuse for a genuine Ixo model rather than a “plain” press series. Well worth 14/20.

Model: Ferrari 3.2 Mondial
Year: 1985
Maker: Ixo
Scale: 1/43
Distributed by: Fabbri as no.47 of its Ferrari Collection press series
Acquired: brand new, in December 2006, in Souillac, France

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