Few things pair better than a Ferrari and a V12. The 456 was built to replace the 412, but Ferrari kept the recipe simple. A honking great V12 up front, four seats in the middle and the rear wheels doing all the driving.
The 456 was the launch pad for an all-new V12 and made a clear statement to the world. That Ferrari was back to building cross-continental grand tourers, the 456 was and is an utterly usable Ferrari. The styling at launch was considered understated, but today, it has aged with immense grace and has quickly become beloved.
Externally, the 90s lines look as elegant today as they did at launch. This particular car is finished in a lovely shade of Argento Nurburgring. A colour fitting for the 456, this isn’t a loud and brash Ferrari. The colour complements the lines of the car perfectly.
The paintwork itself is in great shape, despite its age and silver being a traditionally difficult colour to maintain it retains great depth and shine. Whilst there are some age-related marks, they don’t detract from the 456s beauty. The silver bodywork is matched by silver 17” 5-spoke alloy wheels. The wheels are all in great shape and are free from any nasty curb rash.
Step inside and you’re met by a set of Bordeaux leather seats, the headrests are embossed with the iconic Cavallino Rampante! The seats are in excellent shape and only show the most minor of wear. In the centre console, you’ll find the original radio remains in place. Inside, all of the switchgear, gauges and systems work as they should. The dashboard, door cards, steering wheel and headliner are trimmed in a contrasting black and the dash is completed by a 456GTA badge
Under the bonnet, you’re greeted with a 5.5-litre naturally aspirated V12, which produces around 430bhp and 406lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a 4-Speed automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly and offers the driver the ultimate cruising experience. There are no signs of any damage or nasty leaks in the engine bay, it’s clean and tidy.
The overall condition of this 456 is rather impressive, this is thanks in no small part to an extensive program of regular maintenance throughout its life from both Ferrari main dealers as well as marque specialists.
The service records include:
01/1998 - 6,310 miles - Service - Ferrari Main Dealer
05/2003 - 13,933 miles - Service - Ferrari Main Dealer
06/2004 - 15,228 miles - Service - Ferrari Main Dealer
06/2005 - 16,029 miles - Service - Ferrari Main Dealer
02/2006 - 16,840 miles - Service & Cambelts - Ferrari Main Dealer
06/2007 - 19,587 miles - Intermediate Service - Ferrari Specialist
06/2008 - 20,965 miles - Service - Ferrari Specialist
06/2009 - 22,436 miles - Service - Ferrari Specialist
09/2009 - 22,693 miles - Cambelts - Ferrari Specialist
06/2010 - 23,267 miles - Service and Inspection - Ferrari Specialist
06/2011 - 23,657 miles - Service - Ferrari Specialist
07/2013 - 24,497 miles - Service & Cambelts - Ferrari Specialist
06/2016 - 26,494 miles - Service - Ferrari Specialist
06/2017 - 26,784 miles - Service - Ferrari Specialist
07/2018 - 27,240 miles - Service & Cambelts - Ferrari Specialist
06/2019 - 27,485 miles - Service - Ferrari Specialist
06/2020 - 27,700 miles - Service - Ferrari Specialist
08/2022 - 27,957 miles - Service & Cambelts - Ferrari Specialist
09/2023 - 28,834 miles - Service - Ferrari Specialist
In part due to a drop in values, some 456 fell into the hands of owners who were not prepared to complete the maintenance required of such a car. Nevertheless, this example hasn’t suffered that fate, with consistent and regular maintenance throughout its life.
A 456 is a great addition to any collection, for those who want a true Grand Tourer, and for those who are Ferrari die-hard fans, the 456 has something to offer for everyone. This example benefits from an incredibly tasteful specification, as well as an extensive service record and low mileage.
As with all our vehicles, a full digital folder is available on request containing more images, walk-around videos, and scans of the service history. The car can also be viewed by appointment at our West London showroom.