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This 1985 Ferrari Mondial Quattrovalvole is a factory right-hand drive Australian delivered example which comes with extensive records and documentation. Delivered new to a customer in Yeronga QLD on 16 August 1985, the car found its way to the current owner who purchased it from a collector in Sydney over three years ago. The seller is downsizing his garage and collection, and regrettably must sell the Mondial to the next lucky enthusiast.
The Mondial series was first introduced in 1980 as the Mondial “8”, and saw production over several iterations through to as late as 1993. Most notably, the Mondial introduced a new and practical 4-seat configuration not previously offered by Ferrari. This new formula wasn’t welcomed by all Ferrari fans, but many warmed to the format over time particularly following the second iteration (the Quattrovalvole) which was introduced from 1983. As suggested by the name, the second iteration included 4-valve per cylinder technology, which brought power from the 3.0 litre V8 to 240hp (179kw) – up from 214hp (160kw) in the Mondial 8. The Quattrovalvole model was built until 1985, and this particular car is from that final year of production.
There were just 1,145 of the Quattrovalvole hardtops built worldwide, and just 152 built in factory right-hand drive. If this car isn’t rare enough, Ferrari forums suggest it is one of just a handful of Australian delivered examples. Presumably, the majority of the right-hand drive cars went to the UK and Japan. The car comes with an original Ferrari log book case packed full of paperwork evidencing the car’s original sale, service history and registration. It also has all of its original handbooks. Interestingly, an Australian version of the Quattrovalvole owner’s manual was actually made, and there are service receipt stubs dating back to 1985. The first service was completed by Auto Classica Ferrari, at 374 Wickham Street, Fortitude Valley on 4 November 1985. Extracts from the car’s documentation are provided in the gallery for those interested.
Overall, the paintwork on this example is in great condition for the car’s age, and the seller has informed us that the body still retains its factory original Rosso Corsa paint. However, it appears that the bumper bars have been painted to match the body at some stage prior to the seller’s ownership. This could be easily reversed if the original look is desired. There are a few minor scuff marks on bumpers, and some very minor paint blemishes on the body. However, the car presents exceptionally well for a vehicle that is now 35 years old, and as you would expect for a vehicle of this type it has always been garaged, regularly serviced and generally looked after by owner-enthusiasts over the years. We note that the odometer reading of 173,000km accords with the car’s service records.
The car is fitted with later model 5-spoke 18 inch wheels (believed to be from a Ferrari 360 Modena). These make the car look more modern, but the originals also come with the car, and are in great condition (just need a quick wipe down). The tyre sticker fitted to the front windscreen provides the original recommended tyre specification when this car was new - that being “Michelin TRX 240/55”. The tyres fitted to the original wheels are per that specification. Although they have plenty of tread, you wouldn’t drive on the tyres fitted to the original wheels as they appear to be over 20 years old. However, they would polish up OK and be a great original piece to fit to the car when you arrive at a show.
Mechanically the car runs smoothly, and there was no evidence of smoke or major engine faults upon inspection. The seller has not had any major mechanical issues outside of regular maintenance, and these cars remain one of the most serviceable classic Ferraris available. On start-up, the owner notes the cold start valve takes a few minutes to bring the idle down. Once running, the quad-cam 32 valve sounds amazing at high revs, and would give plenty of punch for a car that weighs under 1500kg.
The seller notes that the speedometer has stopped working, but the odometer has always worked and continues to work. The seller notes it may be a connection issue within the dash, but has not tampered with the dash to attempt a repair. Instead, a GPS speedometer sits on the dash top as a temporary solution. Further, the air conditioning does work, but seems to have a fault which causes it to intermittently stop. The seller is unsure of the source of the problem, and it needs further investigation. Other than those two issues, everything inside the car works well, including the electric windows and all dash switches and lighting.
The seat trim and carpets are also all original, and have held up very well for their age. The trim is cream leather, most of which is in excellent condition, and the carpets are a contrasting tan colour. All previous owners must have had floor mats fitted, and it really shows. The front driver’s seat is worn more than the others, but there are no tears or serious cracks. It appear that the original leather fabric could be brought back to its former glory without the need to re-trim. This is a testament to the quality of the leather used in these cars. The only area where we note the leather appears to have dried out and slightly cracked is the driver’s side rear seat (front edge of the squab), and we have included an image of that area for reference.
Further complementing the car’s history and originality, it comes with its original jack (located in the front trunk), and its original toolkit (in the rear trunk). Nothing is missing from these kits, and all tools are original with “Ferrari” cast into each handle. The car also has its original Ferrari service light with cigarette lighter power adaptor. Even that has a little Ferrari logo cast into the plastic casing.
This is a fantastic survivor example and has the history and documentation which make for an excellent investment. While you can find examples overseas at lower prices, tracking down an Australian delivered right-hand drive car is extremely difficult. For this reason, the asking price on this car is very reasonable. The images provide some detail as to the vehicle’s overall condition. For the serious buyer, please sign in and contact the seller, Bob, to arrange an inspection or discuss any questions you have.
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