We are glad that FCA, or Stellantis, as they are known these days, is able to root around the Ferrari parts bin every once in a while. The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is a prime example of technology sharing between the brands; Considering Alfa's sales volume in its market segment, can we really expect them to develop an entire engine on their own anymore? Today's 1985 Ferrari Mondial Quattrovalvole Cabriolet doesn't lend any technology to the FCA offerings, but it does offer a rare and wonderful color combination of plum over tan. And where do you think we've seen that today? Why, on the Dodge Charger Hellcat Redeye, of all things!

We've never loved the Mondial Cabriolets until seeing this one in plum or prugna. The photographs here really capture the low-slung shape, only possible with a double wishbone suspension front and rear, well. Being a Quattrovalvole model, this Mondial actually makes respectable power, with a 235bhp rating from its 4-valve per cylinder F105A V8. Fuel injection comes courtesy of a Bosch K-jet, or CIS, system, which controls fueling entirely electromechanically. Sensitive to rusty fuel tanks, the systems are robust, if not exactly optimized. And, in our experience, they somehow lend to a great exhaust note with hints of overrun on decelerations.

Year: 1985
Model:  Ferrari
Engine: 3.0L V8
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage:  45,616mi
Price: $55,000 obo
Location: Sarasota, FL

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1985 Ferrari Mondial Quattrovalvole Cabriolet

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This example appears to be in very good condition for its mileage. Better yet, it has record of a belt service in 2020. The transverse engine Mondials can have their belts serviced through the wheel well, so a so-called major service is within reason for home mechanics, should you own this car up until the next belt change. The car also saw a clutch replacement in 2015, which is something that we would rather not have to suffer through ourselves.

We try not to view these as a cheap Ferrari, or as an attainable way to own a Ferrari. To us, they are just a cool V8-powered, gated shifter, mid-engine Italian convertible. Ignoring their relative standing in the range of Ferrari offerings over the years reveals them to be an interesting option for those with an appetite for Italian cars. In this rare plum color, we can hardly think of a more interesting and appealing convertible from this era to park in the garage.

-Graham