Ferrari Mondial t

Why it matters

Introduced in 1989, the Mondial t replaced every earlier Mondial's transverse engine with a longitudinally mounted 3,405 cc V8 connected to a transverse five-speed gearbox, creating the T-shaped drivetrain that gave the model its name. The arrangement, related in concept to Ferrari's 312 T Formula 1 cars, lowered the engine and concentrated mass near the center of the chassis; it also directly anticipated the contemporary Ferrari 348. Bosch Motronic engine management, dry-sump lubrication and four valves per cylinder helped produce 300 hp at 7,200 rpm, while anti-lock brakes and electronically adjustable dampers modernized the chassis. Pininfarina subtly revised the nose, side intakes and rear body while preserving the four-seat fixed-roof silhouette. Ferrari produced 858 coupés through 1993, making the Mondial t the final and most technically sophisticated closed Mondial.