Introduced in 1992, the 456 GT saw Ferrari return to the front-engined, grand tourer concept for the first time since the 412 of the mid-80s. The automatic model – the GTA – came along in 1996 and refined the model further, adding a smooth four-speed automatic transmission that made it a suave and cosseting continent crosser.
This particular GTA has an excellent history, with a vast maintenance file, comprehensive service record and a very fine specification. All in all, it’s a deeply attractive machine, presented with relatively low mileage. Often seen as the “grown up” Ferrari, it’s a truly elegant and timeless design that offers considerable wells of performance to match its stylish aesthetic.
Ferrari radio and 10x CD changer with twin amplifiers
Factory alarm system
Electric windows and door mirrors
Air conditioning
Electrically operated front seats
With that gorgeous Bordeaux Connolly leather upholstery offering a fine juxtaposition to the light exterior finish, this 456 is certainly a handsomely specified machine. The leather itself is contrasted with black secondary leather, and every inch of it looks to be in fine condition considering the vehicle’s age. In fact, the rear seats appear to have been barely used. There is a little light creasing to the front seats, as you’d expect, but no damage or tearing we could identify.
The headlining is black, with a Bordeaux central spine, and presents very well, with no sagging or damage apparent. Similarly, the black carpets and their complementary floor mats appear to be in excellent condition, with no staining or threading.
In December 2022 the vendor had a new window control module fitted to the passenger side, as the window was not functioning correctly. It now works just as it should.
All of the driving controls and switchgear are in good order, with light blemishes and some wear evident, but only what would be commensurate with the vehicle’s age and mileage.
We are assured by the vendor that everything works as it should, with no faults reported in the cabin other than the fact that the handbrake light occasionally remains on after the brake is released.
That shimmering, metallic grey paintwork really does highlight the 456’s fine proportions and elegant lines. Overall, it shows very nicely, with a smooth finish and no notable damage we could discern. Naturally, there are a handful of age-related marks and the odd stone chip, but in general it wears its 26 years very well indeed.
Featuring an aluminium and feran shell over a spaceframe chassis, corrosion issues are minimal with any 456, and it’s a similar story here. The panels are all clean and tidy, with no evidence of damage or corrosion. The vendor notes a tiny dimple under the passenger side door lock, but it really is quite minimal.
The trim is likewise in good order, with all the badging being present and correct and the light lenses appearing to be clear and undamaged. There is a small amount of delamination starting at the base of the rear windscreen, which is a common issue with the 456.
The car is still riding on its factory, five-spoke wheels. These 17-inch items still provide a nice depth of sidewall to aid comfort, while complementing the look of the 456 well. They wear their silver finish nicely, with no kerbing or lacquer peel to be seen, and they are shod in a matched set of Pirelli P-Zero tyres which were fitted in June 2021.
Peering underneath, the floors and sills look very clean and tidy. Again, there was no corrosion or damage we could see. And the drivetrain elements that were visible show well, being clean and looking to be undamaged and well maintained.
Fully independent sport suspension with three settings
Excellent maintenance and servicing record
Timing belts changed about 2,000 miles ago in June 2021
That 5.5-litre V12 is iconically Ferrari, offering the kind of soundtrack and power you’d expect from the marque. With 442hp on offer at the dab of your right toe, performance is certainly lively, with an addictive accompanying V12 howl emanating from the stainless steel exhausts.
With a fine service record, the engine has clearly been well maintained. New timing belts were fitted and a full service carried out in June 2021. At the same time, new brake discs and pads all round were fitted and a four-wheel electronically shimmed alignment was carried out.
Apparently, the vendor has also had Concentric wheel spacers professionally fitted at the rear, to ensure the wheels fill the arches a little better.
The vendor tells us that the car runs beautifully, with no issues to report, and is a joy to drive.
Front-engined V12, beautiful styling and a high quality finish – everything about this 456 GTA screams “classic Ferrari grand tourer”. We think the 456 is a sure-fire future classic, and this well maintained, suavely specified example would make a very fine choice for any discerning enthusiast.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Car & Classic's secure payment system protects buyers and sellers. At the end of the auction, the winning bidder transfers payment into a third-party escrow account. Once the transfer of the vehicle is complete, both parties confirm they are happy with the sale and the money is released to the seller.
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1997 Ferrari 456 GTA
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