Mantovani graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering, though his passion for sport was evident in the fact that he took part in a number of activities: competitive skiing, canoeing, climbing and motor-racing.

In 1953 he purchased an A6GCS in which he raced in the Sport category. He claimed victory at Caserta at the Supercortemaggiore Grand Prix and also at the Targa Florio. A year later, and teamed with Musso, he won the Tourist Trophy and the Coppa Dolomiti.

His predisposition for racing led to his buying a Maserati 250 F (chassis no. - 2511) so that he could take part in the 1954 Formula 1 championship. The Milanese driver enjoyed the support of the parent company and also became part of the official squad. Driving capably, he obtained two fifth place finishes: the first at the German GP and the second in Switzerland.

At the wheel of the Maserati 250 F he proved a combative competitor. In 1955, however, he was involved in serious accident at Valentino circuit in Torino where a delay in administering medical help resulted in the loss of a leg. In 1987, Mantovani was appointed head of the Commissione Tecnica of the Registro Maserati and in 1988, he became a board member of the Club Maserati. Mantovani died in Milan on 24 February 2001 after a short illness.