Ferrari once considered entering American open-wheel racing, and a one-off Ferrari Mondial pace car became an unexpected part of that ambitious chapter. Built in 1987 for the PPG Pace Car program, the unique vehicle reportedly cost $1 million and offered an early look at technology being developed for the Italian automaker’s upcoming Ferrari 348.
Ferrari’s Unusual American Racing Ambitions
Ford and Chevrolet may be among the most recognizable names in American motorsports, but Ferrari once explored a potential entry into the scene.
During the 1980s, company founder Enzo Ferrari grew frustrated with Formula 1 politics and proposed regulation changes, threatening to leave the series. In 1986, he commissioned the Ferrari 637 for a possible entry into the CART Indy Car World Series and the Indy 500. The car, however, never competed in a race.
Another vehicle emerged from that unusual period in Ferrari’s history: a one-off Mondial designed to serve as a pace car for CART events.
The unique Ferrari has returned to the spotlight, offering a closer look at an American racing venture that never fully materialized. Now part of The Caretakers Collection, the vehicle remains a distinctive piece of the automaker’s motorsports history.
The $1 Million Ferrari Mondial Pace Car
The Ferrari Mondial pace car was developed for the PPG Pace Car program, which supplied vehicles to lead CART events. Other cars used in the program included the 1983 Dodge Daytona Turbo Z and the 1992 Subaru SVX.
Although the Mondial never achieved the recognition of models such as the Ferrari Testarossa, its unique design and history make it a notable part of the brand’s racing story.
The car reportedly cost $1 million to build in 1987, equivalent to around $3 million today.
Designed by Italian firm I.DE.A Institute, the pace car featured an extended wheelbase, redesigned front and rear bodywork, and integrated warning lights. It also received a brake-cooling system that used nozzles to spray water.
Inside, the cabin featured a custom dashboard and steering wheel, along with Kevlar and suede accents.
Experimental V8 Previewed Ferrari 348 Technology
Power came from an experimental 3.4-liter V8 engine reportedly producing 300 horsepower.
The engine was being developed for the upcoming Ferrari 348, giving the Mondial pace car a role beyond leading the field at CART events.
The one-off vehicle also served as an early showcase for Ferrari’s developing powertrain technology, connecting its American racing ambitions with an upcoming production model.
Where the Ferrari Pace Car Stands Today
The Ferrari Mondial pace car is not for sale, but it remains a rare reminder of a lesser-known chapter in the automaker’s history.
Ferrari is more widely associated with its strong presence in Formula 1, making the unique American racing project an unusual part of its motorsports legacy.
Today, the IndyCar Series uses different pace cars depending on the event. The 2026 Indy 500 is paced by the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X.
In Formula 1, pace-car duties are handled by the safety car, the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+.
