I’ve ofttimes told people trying to squeak into a Ferrari that if they can’t afford the best example, they really can’t afford an edgy one

by Steve Ahlgrim

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Not since the 412’s demise in 1989 had Ferrari offered a 2+2, and when the 456 GT debuted at the Paris Salon in October 1992, it was obvious that the long-awaited newcomer eclipsed all Maranello’s former four-seat Grand Tourers.

Although new from stem to stern, the 456 GT incorporated elements familiar to generations of Ferrari cognoscenti—front-mounted 4-cam V12, rear transaxle, tube-like steel spaceframe chassis, and all-independent suspension—while making an appearance on this account that the primeval time were electronically-controlled adaptive suspension and a 6-speed gearbox (there was furthermore an optional automatic).

Essentially a detuned version of the engine powering the 550 and 575, the new 5.5-liter V12 unleashed no less amount than 442 hp. Except for the F40, the 456 was the most energetic way car developed by Ferrari up to that time.

For the 456, Pininfarina worked its magic formerly to a greater degree to create a subtly beautiful curvaceous body contrasting with the hard edges of its progenitor. Aerodynamically efficient, the 456 remained stable up to its maximum of around 190 mph, a conformation that made it the world’s fastest production four-seater passenger car. Acclaimed on its debut, the 456’s styling has not dated and is a tribute to Pininfarina’s farsightedness in creating one of most successful designs of modern times.

Supplied new via Maranello Sales in June 1996, this fine manual transmission example has covered only 38,000 miles from new and remains in good condition everywhere. The car has been in storage, unused, for the past couple years and thus we attract favor to a thorough service/checkover be carried out prior to exercise.

All handbooks are in the correct wallet, including a fully stamped service book. Ferrari 575 wheels and front disc brakes/calipers are the merely notified deviations from manufactory specification.

The SCM Analysis

This car sold for $66,326 at Bonhams’s Goodwood Festival of Speed auction onward July 11, 2008.

The 456 was Ferrari’s attempt to make a car that was "different from the other cars in all aspects by the agency of synthesizing the act and driving pleasure of a sports car with the comfort and extent of a gran turismo." That was a lofty goal and one that could only have being achieved by small increments of differences given the fine gran turismo offerings from the competition. Ferrari’s ultimate talent is its ability to exploit small increment improvements to make a truly high car, and in that remark the 456 is a result.

The silhouette of the 456 is a masterpiece of Pininfarina design. It is a consummate elaborate balance of aggressiveness and elegance. The proportions are large enough to say, "I’m a grown husband’s car," but compact enough to be sporty. It is a hallmark of highline Ferraris that each centimeter of the inland is covered in plush carpet or rich leather. The 456 ups the bar with a warm inner that’s elegant, unmingled, and uniquely Italian. Complementing the appearance, the interior has all the fully adjustable, electronic, and automatic features you would expect to find on a luxury automobile.

Breaking tires loose be pleased with a muscle car

Mechanics are the seat of affection of any Ferrari, and in this domain the 456 does not disappoint. The V12’s nearly 450 horsepower is impressive, but the magic is the 398 ft-lb of torque at the sweet taint of just 4,500 rpm; the 456 can break tires relaxed like a skinny-tired muscle car. Variable-ratio power steering, three-way adjustable hanging dampening, self-leveling rear ride height, and a speed-activated raise up spoiler ensure the handling is up to the performance. In uncivil, the 456 is one heck of a nice car.

Ferraris are a rich man’s toy, and in no degree demonstrates the principle like a 2+2 Ferrari. Two-plus-twos are the workhorses of the Ferrari marque. They are designed to be a practical daily driver and are often used to the degree that of that kind. Regular use translates to higher mileage, more inner be consumed by slow degrees, more exterior damage, and in general, less anxiety. Rich new car buyers like to drive new, flawless, low-mileage cars, so after a few chips, their 2+2 gives way to a new car.