No problem. I'm curious what they mean by Prototype? Is it a true T series prototype, or is it just that it's a very early build of a production car?
Not sure why the term "prototype". However, looking at the engine compartment it's quite possible to be one of the first Mondial t Coupes. The ad's statement "T Prototype is the final model of the Mondial Series" is probably referring to the t as being the last model for the Mondial product line.
Notice the placement of the engine oil cooler. On the "prototype" its placed upwards and more towards the engine. Whereas the other two production cars have theirs tucked into the right fender area. Plus there's no "finishing trim" on the top sides of the engine for the prototype. Different coolant expansion tank as well.
Not sure if I want a prototype. What if something gets broken and you need a new part that is unique. Sharp eyes Wade!
Thanks Tijn. Speaking of unique, look at the engine oil fill tube... which isn't the same either. Different location anyway.
Indeen, good job on comparing the Prototype to the production cars. MvT, I agree, although I'm sure most could be custom made to spec. If it goes on the lower end of the estimate (2.5m Yen= ~$23k USD) it will be a steal. I'm not that familiar with Mondials, do they also require a major engine-out service every so often?
It looks like Stephan's (Bill's old car) is up for sale on eBay - https://www.ebay.com/itm/1986-Ferrari-Mondial-3-2-Coupe/303020832864?hash=item468d72f860:g:6IoAAOSwKwhb02Xx:rk:1f:0&vxp=mtr . I looked at the car in LA at the beginning of last Summer and it was definitely sharp looking. 2cam
Basically the same service intervals and procedures as the 348 - engine-out for cam belts and such. If in the market, I wouldn't hesitate to buy that car for under $23k. Granted, lots of unknowns at this point - cylinder compression, rust issues, a/c? Not having the adjustable suspension is a plus for me (reduces complexity).
I thought Mondials were more money friendly by not requiring a major service, but like I saw somewhere on FChat "there is no such thing as a cheap Ferrari". At $23k it would still be worth a shot I guess, enjoy it for a year or two and sell it for similar money (given that nothing, especially the "prototype" parts, doesn't break).
Hey Simon. You are correct. There is no such thing as a cheap Ferrari. However, some are less expensive to maintain than others. The Mondials (pre-t) and 3x8s fit into that category. Regardless, they're still not as low cost as a Miata or any other mass-produced vehicle. 2cam
The t (as a model) is worlds apart from its predecessors, and the only one needing an engine-out for the "full service". For my money, for money-friendly, I'd suggest a well-sorted 3.2 Coupe, without a sunroof. I seem to recall this one, but I don't think its for sale...
Is that a factory prototype? Would expect it to go for much more yen! Are those wheels 355 fronts are ?? They look unique but similiar....
While the wheels look very much like those from a 355, I'm pretty sure they're BBS Pininfarina wheels. Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login
In proportion they look better then the real F355 one IMHO. Not sure if this is price wise a cheaper option and they do not come around that easy with 5 holes :-S
I remember these wheels because they're exactly what I wanted for my '87 Fiero GT back during the early 90s. I had the brochure at the time as well. But they were beyond my price range at the time. These wheels came in various sizes/offsets and bolt patterns, plus two-piece versions (maybe three?). The BBS pics I sourced from the internet (Google Images). I can imagine that they're rarer today than the 17" Speedline Mistral wheels for the Mondial.
Thank you for the tips, i'll keep them in mind once I'm ready to take a shot at a Mondial. Any particular reason for no sunroof car, or just personal preference?
No dial sunroofs are notorious for being very problematic, and very, VERY expensive to get them fully “sorted”. There is a Mondial “saying” that if you have a functioning sunroof NEVER to use it!! Temple
Got you! I actually found a nice looking (I know, everything is always nice in pictures) 1986 Mondial 3.2 on ebay with the sunroof and in the lisitng the guy said the following now I know why he specifically mentioned the sunroof. Here is the listing, I love the color on it https://www.ebay.com/itm/1986-Ferrari-Mondial-3-2-Coupe/303020832864?hash=item468d72f860:g:6IoAAOSwKwhb02Xx:rk:2f:1&frcectupt=true Image Unavailable, Please Login