1982 Ferrari Mondial Quattrovalvole
In 1982 at the Geneva Auto Show, Ferrari replaced the Mondial 8
with an even more powerful version, the Mondial Quattrovalvole. The
"Quattrovalvole" name referred to the 4 (quattro) valve per cylinder
engine that increased the engine power, but also made it easier to comply with
US emissions legislation. The car was produced between 1982 and 1985, during
which time 1145 examples were produced, in both right and left hand drive
versions, together with various world market specification models.
The Mondial Quattrovalvole featured a wedge body shape theme with
the radiator grille beneath the front bumper. The overall shape was identical
to the preceding model, including the black plastic wrap around bumpers front
and rear, together with the large trapezoidal air intake grilles for the engine
bay on the body sides behind the doors, and paired circular rear light
assemblies.
Although the exterior remained unchanged, apart from the
replacement of the Mondial 8 badge with Mondial Quattovalvole badging to the
tail panel, the interior was lightly modified, mainly in respect of the center
console layout.
The console was extended forward to meet the front bulkhead, and
the ventilation controls incorporated into it, whilst the radio position moved
from behind the gear change to a more clearly visible location ahead of it. The
door panels had revised pattern pockets and pulls, whilst the leather rim
steering wheel became plain spoke (instead of slotted) with a satin black finish.
Under the hood there was a four valves per cylinder heads, the V8
engine fitted with Bosch K Jetronic fuel injection and Marelli MED 803A
Digiplex electronic ignition to produce a claimed 235 bhp for main European
market versions, and 230 bhp for US market versions. Top speed went up to 149
mph.
The engine was transversely mounted in unit with the all
synchromesh five speed transmission assembly, which was below, and to the rear
of the engine’s wet sump. The model featured independent suspension via wishbones,
coil springs and hydraulic shock absorbers all round, with front and rear anti
roll bars.
