With effortless power and superlative comfort, there’s something special about a V12-engined Ferrari GT. The visceral performance backing up the continent-crossing abilities, it’s a compelling formula – and the 456 is particularly special: when it was launched in 1992, it was the second-fastest four-seater production vehicle in the world… and to be fair, the car that held the title of being the fastest, the Porsche 959, was a hyperactive supercar with all the inherent histrionics that brings. The Ferrari 456 could do 192mph, but it could also pootle to the shops, cosseting you in leather-lined splendour.

The example we have here is a 456 GTA, meaning that the 5.5-litre V12 is mated to a hydraulic automatic transmission. This makes the car particularly rare, as of the total production run of 3,289 cars, just 403 were built in GTA spec. And there’s an intriguing history behind it too: this car was originally delivered brand new to Hong Kong in 1997, and resided there throughout its life until being brought over to the UK in 2017.

There were a few administrative hoops to jump through in order to get it officially registered (as the Hong Kong authorities are notoriously entertaining to deal with when it comes to paperwork), but everything was carried out thoroughly and fastidiously with official records sourced from Maranello; the car was officially registered with the DVLA in December 2020.

There’s a sheaf of paperwork to show that it’s been maintained in a no-expense-spared fashion in recent years by the marque specialists at Autofficina in Surrey, and the car presents in all-original condition and pleasingly tidy throughout. A beautifully appointed GT with staggering firepower under the bonnet, ready for its next owner to enjoy a new set of adventures with.

The cabin is in lovely condition with very few notable signs of wear. The leather trim is good with no scuffs, holes or marks, no undue bolster wear and just a gentle patina to the seat centres; the front seat electrics work, and the rear seats are very tidy. The carpets are decent, with the odd minor mark and sign of usage but nothing to be concerned about.

The electric windows raise and lower correctly, the gauges all appear to be functional, and the car is fitted with its original Ferrari stereo, mated to a 10-disc changer in the boot. Speaking of the boot, it’s all dry and tidy in there; the factory toolkit is present and fully stocked, which is a very sought-after thing, and tyre inflation kit is also here.

The headlining’s good, there’s no undue wear to the buttons and controls, the dash-top is free from sun damage – it’s a very nicely presented interior indeed.

Flying in the face of the received wisdom that Ferraris ought to be red, this 456 looks glorious in its deep and rich shade of Tour de France Blue. The bodywork is in tidy condition throughout too, with no evident dings or scuffs, and nice even panel gaps. The wheels have been repainted and look terrific with no signs of kerbing; they wear a matching set of Continental tyres.

The light lenses and window glass are all good, and all of the correct Ferrari badges are in place. The pop-up headlights work correctly (and look fantastic!). Overall, a very well presented example of this desirable modern classic, finished in arguably the best colour.

It’s a pretty phenomenal drivetrain in this car: the F116 5.5-litre V12 is an interesting engine, as its 65° architecture owes more to the Dino V6 than the more traditional 60° V12s in the line-up – and with 436bhp on offer, it can trebuchet the GTA from 0-62mph in a mere 4.8 seconds.

This big-hearted motor, and its auto transmission (developed by FF Developments), are housed within a tubular steel space-frame chassis. And everything appears to be operating in fine fettle here – the mighty V12 fires happily, idles evenly and pulls through the revs with the keenness you’d expect, the transmission shifting smoothly.

The brakes are strong, the steering precise, and the suspension provides that essential blend of suppleness and sportiness. It’s just as a 456 ought to be.

The elegant 456 is a true modern classic, and it’s one that effortlessly fulfils three diverse roles. If you want a generously-appointed machine to waft you across continents, it’s very comfortable doing that. If you fancy a supremely rapid tearaway to kick its tail out on track days, it can do that too. And then it can return to daily driver duties and amble down to Sainsbury’s. The 456 will do it all without breaking a sweat. 

This example has an interesting history, a desirable spec, and has been correctly maintained to ensure that it’s ready to enjoy. So what are you waiting for?

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.*