Should you buy a Ferrari Mondial?

[@jayernster7869]

I have owned a 1988 Mondial 3.2 for 14 years and I can attest to this model being a very good drivers car. It also has those Enzo-era features such as pop up headlights, that fabulous five speed gated shifter and a proper moon roof just to name a few. The car is no supercar, but it was not built to be one, either. Instead, it is a proper Gran Tourer and is a sweet handling machine. My son was too big for the back seat at 4 years of age, so now I store wine and groceries in the rather cramped back seating area. The 'trunk' is also a place for a few other things, like a picnic basket and a bocce set. The biggest disappointment I have experienced with having a Mondial is that my supposed 'mechanics' have only turned out to be farcical in their competencies, thus costing me huge maintenance bills in the process. I would only ever trust Dave Helms in the Denver area, Eugenio in the Los Angeles area, and Gary Tsai at Ferrari of Rancho Mirage. BE VERY CAREFUL and do your due diligence when sourcing a good mechanic, and DO NOT necessarily trust a wrench turner that has Ferrari signage on the walls of his shop. But a well sorted Mondial will bring a smile to an owners face every time. Thanks for posting this well made video.

[@SportsandGT]

Thanks Jay - some great advice too on who you should trust to do the spannering on a Ferrari

[@wes209]

Throw an LS in there and forget the rest 😄

[@sainta2667]

@jayernster7869 Hey Jay, was it reliable? what was it's weak spots ..I want to get a 3.2 from 1987, but I do no hear much about it. Pls elaborate.

[@domenicrossitto9407]

I have owned a 1986 3.2 Mondial for the past 6 years. My two boys and I have spent countless hours cruising in it. They are now adults and are still happy to go for a cruise and coffee with their old man, I can't describe the joy this car has brought me.

[@SportsandGT]

You would have bought well 6 years ago - asking prices have pretty much doubled as more people saw them for the highly usable Ferrari that they are rather than being all sniffy about them.

[@nickrichardson7451]

I joined the FOC GB in 1982 & bought a 308GT4 in 1985 the first of three, I briefly had a 246 Dino with rust issues, this pre-Mondial history taking me to 2010, when I bought a 1993 Mondial 3.4t which drives well as you found. The downside for me was the servicing cost as the engine is removed to service them. This blighted my enjoyment at £2,500 for the annual service & £4k for the cambelt service. The costly engine servicing featured on the 355, Testarossa & one other of this period. The 1993 car also has a Catalytic converter, to avoid this buy prior to ‘93, & mine needed renewal £2790 plus vat. The Mondial t was used to “test” the adjustable suspension as fitted after to the 355. These shockers leak : £2k then but can be rebuilt now. I loved the handling & the extra speed but my replacement is nearly as good but cheaper to run : a 1988 Mondial 3.2 Coupe, which came with an amazing 4” deep history file! I deliberately bought the highest mileage one with history, that I could find. Acquired in 2019 with 67k miles, it now has 71,200 on it despite covid. It’s Rosso corsa with crema leather interior, and handles perfectly adequately for my liking. It showed an easy 140 on track at Silverstone. I’m 75 so I’m slightly calmer than I used to be! The bugbear of ownership has been iffy electrics but we’ve pretty much sorted them. I don’t see any other better Ferrari I’d prefer for £30k, but now it’s gone up!! I loved my 308GT4’s but spare parts are tricky to find plus they are too much now.

[@SportsandGT]

A nice account of Ferrari ownership and some good tips on the Mondial specifically. Thank you.

[@jjr1728]

Give me one. I'm skint

[@brettself]

The first Ferrari I saw in real life was a Mondial 8 in 1980 in San Bernardino, California. Of course, it was a coupe. It remains my favorite Ferrari to this day. John Pogson also has a great video on his silver QV that is a real joy to watch.

[@SportsandGT]

A good memory and thanks for the video tip. I don't know if I can remember seeing my first Ferrari in real life but it would have been in the 80s too I guess.

[@Ricobaca]

Lucky.

[@robsas6610]

I had one in the late 1980's and loved it! It was a pussycat in traffic, nice and easy to drive and bloody marvellous when I got onto the open road! My only bugbear with it was that quite often, I'd open the petrol cap by accident (right hand drive model).

[@SportsandGT]

I can’t believe how much they’ve gone up in value over the past few years. What used to be the “entry level” modern classic Ferrari at £20k is now around £50k. Clearly more people have discovered its charms.

[@AlanDevlin]

Keep up the good work really enjoying the left of field cars you’re testing, thx

[@SportsandGT]

Cheers. Just shows what people want, the F40 has barely any views by comparison! 😂

[@es330td]

I love the 2+2 layout. I have owned two Mark III Toyota Supras and really like this kind of car. I think the Mondial is the only Ferrari I would actively want to own.

[@SportsandGT]

I think the +2 concept was something to do with tax rather than being able to carry full sized passengers. Same with the 911.

[@bicyclist2]

I love the yellow and blue coupes shown here. Although I'm wondering why the one at 0:40 has 348 wheels. I've seen a set of the correct wheels for sale on-line. In the US most are rosso corsa red and convertibles. I once saw a gunmetal gray Mondial coupe as a kid in the late 80's and have wanted one ever since. Thanks.

[@SportsandGT]

Good spot on the wheels on that QV- it’s not uncommon for people to put later wheels on older cars either because the originals had deteriorated or they just liked the look. Thanks for watching.

[@andybroer651]

I actually prefer the Mondial QV as it is very tractable, I've spun the 3.4 T cabriolet multiple times, never damaged or hurt anything, but it is very tail happy. I owned a '75 308GT4 for many years and I preferred that for driving dynamics, but a Mondial QV Cabrio would be excellent.

[@SportsandGT]

The 308GT4 is another Ferrari that was overlooked for a long time - although I always liked its wedginess.

[@andybroer651]

@@SportsandGT I regret trading it in on my Countach 5000 QV

[@SportsandGT]

@@andybroer651 I’d make an exception for a Countach!

[@andybroer651]

@@SportsandGT Thanks, I did :-) I wish I still had both

[@kenm251]

Great video, I’m looking to buy one now and you’ve been a great help!

[@SportsandGT]

Thanks Ken - good luck with your purchase

[@gillmaes]

Yes you should buy a Mondial! :) Pulled the trigger myself this year on a nice 3.2 and enjoying every mile. Particularly the 3.2 is a sweet spot in my opinion: faster than the 3.0 and mechanically easier to work on than the T which needs an engine out belt service.

[@SportsandGT]

Well played, any photos?

[@merkur360]

How much you pay for it? There's one I'm looking at at $44K don't know if that's a good price for ut.

[@soucorp]

It was hard to follow your video, the blur and shake of your camera was very distracting, but I did like your review. I have an 88 Mondial 3.2 for the last 10 years, love my car. At the time I was going for a 308 or 328, but we had 2 babies and my wife said no to the 2 door, never looked back. Its a great car for CarsnCoffee that you can maintain yourself as cambelt service does not require an engine out service like the Mondial T. Like any classic car, there are little things that you will discover doesn't work as well as they should, i.e. rear windows, fuse box, but overall, its every bit a Ferrari without spending a fortune.

[@SportsandGT]

Thank you. Yes sorry about the shake. Older cars, British B-roads and experimenting with different mounts and cameras. Great to hear that you like to get out and about in yours.

[@themessenger5868]

"No one will ever love a Mondial." Ferrari produced approximately 7000 examples sporting 4 models over 13 years. At the height of them in the mid eighties, they were actually one of the most expensive models on offer from Maranello. I've owned one (85 QV) for the last 12 years and have never received a negative comment. I love mine...and no matter what you say, I'm not no body. Thanks for being honest in your review and yes...they are on the way up. If you want an investment car right now, then find a Mondial and buy it. You can't lose. They're not making anymore.

[@SportsandGT]

Underrated and under appreciated for too long. Those who discovered their charms long ago like you are the winners, not just in terms of value but for all the years of enjoyment that others have missed out on.

[@themessenger5868]

@@SportsandGT Indeed...cheers from Perth, Western Australia

[@SportsandGT]

@@themessenger5868 spent a week in Perth back in early 2002 having travelled by train from Sydney. 👍🏻

[@themessenger5868]

@@SportsandGT Indian-Pacific across the Nullarbor... It's a big Island, flat and void.

[@SportsandGT]

@@themessenger5868 yep, that was it. Treated ourselves to “Gold Kangaroo” berths. Superb.

[@econseer]

Great review, excellent job, keep up the great work!

[@SportsandGT]

Thank you Paul. 😊

[@econseer]

@@SportsandGT I really appreciated your review, and I thank you. Just like Chris Harris, you 'get this car.' A lot of new enthusiasts don't really understand the Mondial and fall to clickbait articles. Nice to see you and folks like Chris Pollitt from UKs "Car and Classic" are 'in the know.' Sadly I think a downside is affordable Ferrari like this will increase in price and instead of being driven, will become garage queens.

[@Bighand4]

I have a Mondial t. The only neative is the seats(too narrow) and the engine out service when I need a new cambelt

[@SportsandGT]

Yes - engine out for belts is painful - but a better car than the earlier three variants.

[@Bighand4]

@@SportsandGT Sunroof, 300Hp, 3 step suspension, ABS is some of the advantages :-)

[@pedropons9349]

Thanks for your honest and sincere opinion, very useful!

[@SportsandGT]

Thanks Pedro

[@AarmOZ84]

Would you recommend a Ferrari Mondial for someone who is just getting into car collecting that wants a lost cost Ferrari that is easy to maintain for car shows? What will be some issues that an owner should expect to deal with a Mondial T?

[@SportsandGT]

I’m not sure any Ferrari is especially easy to maintain unless you’ve got the skills, it’s always worth having a specialist do it so that when you come to sell you can show that it’s been properly looked after. The T is probably the best of the Mondials but having the timing belt changed is expensive as the engine has to come out, which isn’t the case with the earlier variants.

[@izyfication]

Great video love the metalic sound of the gearbox

[@SportsandGT]

Proper click-snick!

[@mikeyphoto48]

I loved these Mondials.. I had a ‘77 308 GT4 and always thought the Mondial looked so much better. I’m subscribing to your reviews but hope that the camera shake and wobble isn’t a feature of your work lol.

[@SportsandGT]

Thanks Mike. I’m hoping that excessive shake and wobble is in the past too. Some shake is unavoidable with poor road surfaces and especially in older cars but I’m now using different kit for in car filming.

[@davem1116]

Bumpy ride!!!... but nice review of the Mondial. I currently own a QV coupe and previously owned a QV cabriolet. I think they're wonderful cars. They are not of course as glorious as a 250 SWB. Hardly anything is. They are however emblematic of an era in car design, very fun to drive (they actually pull very well and they handle beautifully), and they have the full early Ferrari experience...gated shifter, engine sound, Connolly leather cabin, the whole deal. I love them and personally like the slightly awkward design. That said one thing I would say is that the Mondial, of any Ferrari I've ever seen, looks WAY better in person. Up close they feel low and aggressive, which doesn't translate to photos as it does with say the 365/512 BB. This review is correct. The emission hampered/not quite ready for prime time Mondial 8 reviews soured the reputation of the whole line of cars very unfairly. I recommend trying one with an open mind if you have the chance. Wonderful cars.

[@SportsandGT]

Thank you. I’ve since changed camera gear and try to avoid some of the bumpier roads! You’re right the Mondial is not to be dismissed without trying one.

[@leloupdewallstreet6984]

I love this car, it is very incredible car. Ok it's not most beautiful Ferrari but it has many advantages, for example price. I have already drove one and it's very fantastic car! It is very confortable!

[@SportsandGT]

Often overlooked and underrated - largely due to journalist reactions to the launch model. Now being rediscovered.

[@leloupdewallstreet6984]

@@SportsandGT I very the 3.2 version with its 240 horsepower, I think it's better Mondial version. Then it not necessary to make an engine depose in order to change the distribution!

[@Juraj22772]

Hi. Thanks for the honest review. I’m thinking also about buying one but have never driven one so far. I’m 192cm tall and not sure how I would fitting into the cockpit. Can anyone comment on this please? Thanks. Juraj from Bratislava, Slovakia

[@SportsandGT]

Thank you. I’m 198cm and had no issue other than 4th gear being where my left knee wanted to be, but that was a right hand drive car. For you with left hand drive it might be problematic with reverse being where your right knee wants to be. But you don’t need reverse gear for very long. Try at least sitting in one - maybe at a car show if the owner will let you - then arrange a test drive with a dealer.

[@Juraj22772]

@@SportsandGT Many thanks for the quick response which made me even more to want one. I will definitely do a sitting test and test drive somewhere soon. Thanks and good luck with your channel. Regards. Juraj

[@kjmsupercars]

I ended up buying one, and highly recommend getting one!

[@SportsandGT]

Great, which variant did you go for?

[@kevinwirga6021]

The Mondial T has a completely different engine and gearbox from the earlier 3.2 engined car!

[@SportsandGT]

You're right - the engine was mounted longitudinally to sit lower in the car but the transmission stayed transverse.

[@recyclespinning9839]

Beautifully balanced and looks like it be fun to drive.

[@SportsandGT]

Yes, if not for my long legs and 4th gear it would have been great!

[@gregmayled]

Successor is the California. The FF succeeded the 612, 456 then 412.

[@SportsandGT]

Kind of. Although the California itself broke the Ferrari mould by having a front-engined V8 rather than mid-mounted.

[@fritzmuller8246]

I loved my Mondial QV . It never gave any Trouble at all and I could take my wife , my girlfiend and my wife's girlfriend away for inappropriate weekends of hedonism with just enough space in the boot for several bikinis stashed around my golf bag .

[@SportsandGT]

Brilliant. What a trip that would have been! 😂

[@dannypembroke2372]

Go, Fritzie!!! If you need a wingman . . . . .

[@KevinRaubRocks]

awesome....Sera blue, not TDF Blue :)

[@SportsandGT]

Thank you… noted! 😉

[@John-w3f2o]

It's tbe stratospheric raye at whichbvalues of the 308 and Duno GT4 have risen that has made the Mondial the only affordable FerrTi, cause rvem the mialignrd 400 is nowadays is fetching u h higher figures and noonfet bought only by junkyards who kept yje V12 and scrapped rest of it

[@SportsandGT]

Mondial is a long way from being the most affordable Ferrari now. Thanks for watching.

[@marcusbrown1767]

Shabby video with all the shaking. Blue colour is splendid.

[@SportsandGT]

Yep, sorry about that. Older cars, bumpy roads and still haven’t got the best camera and mount combo.

[@timgosling6189]

Really enjoyed my t Cabrio back in the day. Great for children and actually not bad at all on track (apologies for the limitations of my friend's phone camera): kzbin.info/www/bejne/aKaTnJaPrtijZ80 Oh, and 0-60 should be in the mid 5-second bracket for a 3.4t.

[@SportsandGT]

Lovely sounds

[@usernameisusername]

Yes. Yes you should... Just keep in mind anyone can buy one but few can afford to own one

[@SportsandGT]

Especially if it’s a T needing an engine out belt change!

[@RSTI191]

Mondial over a Porsche Twin Turbo? ??

[@SportsandGT]

Can you get one of those for the same money?

[@RSTI191]

@@SportsandGT Definitely.. I drove a 2001 996 Twin Turbo for 13 years. Loved every minute of it. Just wondering if the Mondial is just as fun, same or better handling and as reliable. I had 415 hp in the Porsche, handled like a fighter jet on wheels. It's well beyond that today.

[@SportsandGT]

@@RSTI191 ah ok - a friend of mine has a 996 turbo - definitely a hairier beast than the Mondial 👍🏻

[@RSTI191]

@@SportsandGT Contemplated going after a Mondial, never driven one. I miss my Turbo- at times. Hoping to get a 997 turbo cabrio down the line at some point. I have to say the 996 was very reliable. Aside from standard maintenance, the only thing I ever replaced, 2 actually, was the shifter cable and coolant reservoir as they tend to crack due to engine heat. Was never a fan of the long throw shifter it had. Other than that the car handled like a dream. Did whatever you asked of it and never asked any questions.. Thanks much for you input. Oh, any thoughts on the 355?

[@peteralexander1155]

The standard wheels don`t do justice to the design of the car.

[@SportsandGT]

Wheels can make a big difference to the look of a car.

[@davidkris]

Shhhhhh don't tell everyone, I've not bought mine yet!

[@SportsandGT]

😂 I think the cat’s already out of the bag - prices have risen quite a bit since last summer when I filmed this. The 456 and 348 are both now cheaper than the Mondial.

[@Ricobaca]

You have to before you can upgrade to the latest and greatest models.

[@SportsandGT]

Not sure if it is still the case that you have to buy a few entry level models before you can get the best - maybe for the limited editions. There won’t be many Mondials in official Ferrari dealerships now though. Thanks for watching.

[@ilcavalieresommelier]

Of course yes…

[@SportsandGT]

I think they’re now into a price bracket where buyers actually want a Mondial rather than just wanting to buy any Ferrari.

[@leloupdewallstreet6984]

Why lof of Ferrari fan dislike this ?

[@SportsandGT]

Possibly because it was so cheap for so long it devalued their overpriced models.

[@leloupdewallstreet6984]

@@SportsandGT 2+2 are apprecied by Ferrari fans often mostly Ferrari with v8. It's the same reaction with California

[@realdata1378]

The best Ferrari sports car is the all analog (baby Testarossa) Ferrari 348. The 348 is the biggest bang for the buck in Ferraris. As the predecessor to the 355, the 348 has the Formula 1 exhaust note without the costly valve and active suspension issues the 355 has. Less is more in analog sports cars. Older is easier as most can work on a 348. Its now or never for 348 buyers.

[@SportsandGT]

I agree, the 348 has been sitting around the bottom end of pricing but is definitely moving upwards. The 456 (a GT rather than sports car) seems to be the cheapest prancing horse now.

[@METALBUG999]

you buy a mondial if you already have another ferrari or super car.

[@SportsandGT]

Maybe - or if you're just desperate to have a Ferrari. That said, they're no longer the cheapest prancing horse.

[@rosariocostruzioni9077]

Bellissima v🐴✌

[@SportsandGT]

Veramente

[@Bighand4]

Get a better camera, without the terrible sound and that handle the vibration.

[@SportsandGT]

Thank you for taking the time to comment - this was one of the first videos I made 3 years ago when first building this channel using whatever equipment I could lay my hands on - indeed I have now got a better camera and mount for in-car filming. Thanks for watching.

[@dragancrnogorac3851]

It's red alfa romeo...

[@SportsandGT]

Sorry, I don’t know what you mean

[@garymcafee2479]

This guy doesn't even know how to drive a manual car, let alone the beautiful gated shifter of a Ferrari!😂😂😂

[@SportsandGT]

This guy does, but it’s not easy when your knee and the gear stick need to be in the same place for fourth! 😅

[@Dave.S.TT600]

NO. YOU SHOULD NOT BUY A MONDIAL

[@SportsandGT]

Many disagree - prices have risen a fair bit since making this video.