Introduced in 1980, Ferrari’s Mondial—named for the French word for “global”—would go on to become one of the manufacturer’s most prominent mass production models, with more than 6,000 examples built across a 13-year production run. The reasons for its success were plain to see, as beneath its sharp Pininfarina styling lay a powerful mid-mounted V-8 engine and seating for four adults. It was, by some margin, one of the most practical Ferraris of the 1980s and 1990s.

The model enjoyed several redesigns over the years, the most significant of which arrived in 1989 with the launch of the Mondial t. The new designation hinted at the improved transverse gearbox and longitudinal engine layout, which allowed the drivetrain to be mounted 13 centimetres lower, bringing much-improved road holding and handling. The engine was increased in capacity to 3.4 litres, lifting total output to 300 horsepower, while power steering, electronically controlled shock absorbers, and anti-lock brakes all combined to increase overall usability.

Just 1,017 Ferrari Mondial t Cabriolets were built between 1989 and 1993, among them chassis 96504, which was constructed during the model’s final year of production. It was ordered new by The Factory Fresh collection and was subsequently retained by consigning owner, kept in storage for the best part of 30 years. The Mondial is equipped with desirable "clutchless manual" transmission. Having barely been driven at all, the odometer reads just 254 kilometres at the time of cataloguing. The car is accompanied by a leather folio containing selected Ferrari books and manuals.

Offering the fun of a drop-top Ferrari and with the advantages of the Mondial t’s updated trim level, chassis 96504 represents a great opportunity for Prancing Horse enthusiasts to bring this fondly remembered era of sports cars into the present day with this “nearly new” Ferrari.