Almost three decades after the Ferrari 456M GT rolled off the production line, it has continued to be a highly sought-after performance-oriented luxury classic Ferrari. Introduced in 1998 as an evolution of the original 456 GT, the 'M' in its moniker stands for 'Modificata,' signifying various improvements over its predecessor. Under the hood, the 456M GT boasts a 5.5 liter, naturally-aspirated V12 engine, delivering 436hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. This enables the car to go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 188 mph. Even with such power under the hood, Ferrari ensured that the 456M GT was refined properly to keep you comfortable as you drove. The 456M GT is a performance machine and a comfortable long-distance cruiser. Pricing for the Ferrari 456M GT can vary depending on the condition and mileage, but you should expect to pay anywhere from $50,000 to $70,000. The 456M GT has two distinct trim levels - the GT and GTA. The GT version features a 6-speed manual transmission, while the GTA has a 4-speed automatic. Both versions offer an equally thrilling driving experience, with the choice mainly depending on your preference for manual or automatic transmission. Take a few minutes and read this in-depth Ferrari 456M GT review.
The Ferrari 456M GT has a rich history that intertwines with its predecessor. First launched in 1992 as the 456 GT, it was designed to replace the 412 as the company's flagship grand tourer. The 456 was a nod to the displacement of each cylinder in cubic centimeters, a naming convention that Ferrari had used in the past. In 1998, the evolution came into existence as it entered the market, featuring many modifications to its design, aerodynamics, and interior. The changes were subtle but effective. The grille was redesigned, the air intakes on the sides were enlarged, and the rear spoiler was fixed instead of retractable. Inside, the interior was refreshed with new seats and a simplified dashboard. The 456M GT was produced from 1998 to 2003, and during this period, approximately 3,289 units were manufactured, making them quite rare and sought-after in the collector car market today. The 456M GT and the 456M GTA were two notable models. The 456M GT version, a manual transmission car, appealed mainly to Ferrari purists who prefer the tactile engagement of shifting gears. On the other hand, the 456M GTA, equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission, catered to those who sought a more relaxed and effortless driving experience. Aside from the standard models, Ferrari also produced a limited number of unique edition versions of the 456M GT. A notable mention is the Venice Estate, a special version explicitly designed for the Sultan of Brunei, of which only seven were ever made. With an elongated body and a hatchback-style rear, this model is considered one of the rarest Ferraris. The 456M GT remained true to Ferrari's heritage throughout its production run, combining high-end performance with luxurious comfort and practicality. It holds a significant place in Ferrari's history, marking a period of design and technical innovation that laid the groundwork for future grand tourers from the Italian automaker.
The Ferrari 456M GT sports a 5.5-liter, naturally-aspirated V12 engine. This colossal power plant, made entirely of lightweight alloy, delivers an impressive 436 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. The engine's design, characterized by its 65° V angle and dual overhead camshafts for each cylinder bank, ensures an optimal balance of power, performance, and reliability. On the performance front, the 456M GT's engine takes it from 0 to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds while aiming for its top speed of 188 mph. Despite its power, the V12 unit is also known for its smooth power delivery due to the integrated Bosch Motronic M5.2 engine control system. This system optimizes fuel injection and ignition timing, providing excellent throttle response across the entire rev range. Thanks to its hefty displacement and 12-cylinder configuration, the 456M GT's engine produces a nice-sounding V12 exhaust roar, and it does so without being overly intrusive. As for fuel efficiency, don't expect the 456M GT to be forgiving on the wallet. It has an estimated combined EPA of just 13mpg, but that's expected for a top-notch performance-oriented car. Yet, compared to other vehicles in its class, such as the Aston Martin DB7 or the Porsche 911 Turbo of the same era, the 456M GT's fuel consumption is in line, if not slightly better, considering its superior power output. Comparing the 456M GT's engine with its automatic variant, the 456M GTA, the two are mechanically identical. However, their driving experiences differ due to their respective transmission systems. While the manual GT offers a more engaging, hands-on experience, the automatic GTA provides a more relaxed, seamless drive, trading some performance for convenience.
The Ferrari 456M GT's interior perfectly blends sportiness and luxury. Upon entering, you'll notice the somewhat surprising position of the parking brake, which is on the driver's side of the door. Ordinarily, it should get in the way when entering and exiting the vehicle, but that's not so on the 456M GT. Ferrari's design ensures that it does its job without inconveniencing you. You're also greeted by a two-tone dashboard that is a hallmark of Ferraris from this era. High-end finishes are found throughout the 456M GT's interior, including polished aluminum trim, leather upholstery, and exquisite stitching, emphasizing Ferrari's commitment to quality and attention to detail. The dashboard is spacious, clutter-free, and made from top-quality leather and brushed aluminum. The driver's seat in the 456M GT is nothing short of a masterpiece, with its automatic settings allowing for a tailored seating position that caters to every individual's physique. The seats also automatically move forward when you press the release button to enter the rear seats. Expectedly, the seats, draped in sumptuous Italian leather, offer lots of support and comfort, ensuring the driver remains comfortable even during extended periods behind the wheel. Behind the three-spoke steering wheel lies a comprehensive set of gauge clusters with classic analog dials embodying Ferrari's traditional styling. These include a large speedometer and tachometer flanked by smaller gauges for oil temperature and pressure, fuel level, and coolant temperature. The wheel is wrapped in leather and offers a firm, confident grip and easy access to the car's horn and other essential controls. The central console houses an array of buttons and switches, including those for automatic climate control, hazard warning lights, and window controls. Its efficient design also houses the AC vents, ensuring the car is kept cool on hot days. Going down the center console, you'll find the gearshift lever (or the automatic transmission selector in the GTA version) within the driver's easy reach. The selectors are smooth, sturdy, and shift nicely. Ferrari also adds an ashtray and a radio on the center console. Regarding cabin noise, the 456M GT undoubtedly keeps the noise at bay with minimal road and wind noise, allowing a tranquil environment perfect for grand touring. Meanwhile, the rear section of the 456M GT features a 2+2 seating configuration. This means it has two smaller rear seats that, while less spacious than the front ones, can accommodate passengers for short journeys or serve as additional storage space. It's an excellent car for a family of four: two adults and two kids.
The Ferrari 456M GT's exterior consists of elegant curves and aggressive lines that are unique. The Pininfarina-designed bodywork is a spectacle to behold, with its elongated bonnet and short rear overhang giving it a classic grand tourer silhouette. At the front, the 456M GT features a wide, low-slung grille bearing the prancing horse emblem. The integrated fog lights are complemented and subtly positioned within the front bumper. Above it, pop-up headlights give the car a sleek, uninterrupted look when retracted, adding to its aerodynamic efficiency. The side profile of the 456M GT is defined by its clean, flowing lines, with the gently rising beltline and muscular wheel arches. The side mirrors are aerodynamically shaped to minimize wind noise and resistance, enhancing the car's high-speed stability. Looking at the 456M GT from the sides, there isn't much difference between it and its predecessor, the 456 GT. The doors, with handles that sit flush against the bodywork, open wide for easy access to the cabin. The car sits on 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 255/45 ZR-rated tires at the front and 285/40 ZR-rated tires at the rear, providing excellent grip and stability. Moving to the back, the 456M GT features distinctive round taillights, a subtle lip spoiler on the trunk lid that improves aerodynamics without detracting from the car's classic lines, Ferrari's logo, and the dual tail-pipes on each side of the vehicle. The trunk, accessible via an elegantly designed handle incorporated into the rear Ferrari logo, opens to reveal a surprisingly generous cargo area for a sports car. The 456M GT offers 8.5 cubic feet of trunk space, enough for a couple of golf bags or overnight luggage, making it a truly practical grand tourer.
One of the main unique technological features of the 456M GT is the car's security system. The security system takes over the car when you turn it off and step out. When you return to the car to continue your journey, you must press the disarm button on the key to notify the vehicle to disengage. If you don't do this critical step and you insert your key into the ignition to turn on the car, it won't start. Another technological aspect of the 456M GT is the sophisticated suspension system. The 456M GT employs electronically adjustable damping with self-leveling rear suspension, continually adjusting the car's damping to provide optimum stability and comfort. There's a one-touch button to turn on the adaptive suspension. Safety technology is another area where the 456M GT shines. It features an anti-lock braking system and traction control, contributing to the car's excellent handling and stability. The vehicle also has dual front airbags, providing an added layer of safety. Finally, the Ferrari 456M GT includes several convenience technologies. These include power windows, power seat controls for the driver and passenger, automatic climate control with door-mounted AC vents for rear passengers, and remote keyless entry.
The Ferrari 456M GT, given its stature as a grand tourer, is a model steeped in luxury and high performance, and its pricing reflects this. When first launched in the late 1990s, the car retailed for over $200,000, a price point in line with its status. In the pre-owned market, prices can start from around $50,000 for models with high mileage to upwards of $100,000 for well-maintained, low-mileage examples. If you own a 456M GT and you're looking for the best hassle-free way to sell your car online, you should list your car here.
The Ferrari 456M GT is a luxury performance car that checks the boxes for performance, elegant design, luxury, and noteworthy features wrapped in an exterior with timeless appeal. It is a practical, versatile vehicle that caters to drivers seeking a high-performance car for everyday use and special occasions. Exotic Car Trader can facilitate the process if you want to pick up a pre-owned Ferrari or other vehicles. With streamlined online procedures, Exotic Car Trader simplifies the buying and selling process, allowing you to focus on the excitement of the transaction rather than the logistics. The Ferrari 456M GT offers top-notch luxury, performance, and practicality. It's a car that gives you the Ferrari experience and the grand tourer experience at its finest. As the days go by, the 456M GT may become even more rare than it is now!
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