Ferrari 456 Specs, Price And Horsepower
The Ferrari 456 stands as a remarkable blend of luxury and performance, marking its place as one of Ferrari’s most understated models. In this comprehensive review, we find out its elegant design, powerful V12 engine, and sophisticated features that cater to both driving enthusiasts and collectors alike. Whether you’re considering an investment in classic cars or simply appreciate fine automotive craftsmanship, today we will thoroughly examine the Ferrari 456’s enduring appeal.
A Complete Ferrari 456 Review
Here we look into the various aspects of the Ferrari 456, examining its design, performance, comfort, and overall legacy.
1. Aesthetic and Design Evolution of the Ferrari 456
Ferrari 456 presents a blend of elegance, power, and avant-garde aesthetics. Undoubtedly, the car was a testament to Ferrari’s commitment to infuse innovation into its design architecture which extends from its exteriors to the interiors.
Exterior Styling
From the get-go, the Ferrari 456 strikes a pose with its scintillating design that stands out in the crowd. What might grab your attention at first might be the streamlined exterior, a signature Ferrari design feature resembling a mighty bird poised for flight.
The notable aspect of the 456 design evolution was the transition from the pop-up headlamps to a more integrated, aerodynamic design with the 456M model. This marked an important shift in Ferrari’s design strategy, one that leaned towards fluidity and seamless contours.
It’s also interesting to note the introduction of a two-tone paint option in 2002. This gave the roof, A, and C pillars a contrasting shade from the rest of the body, creating a unique aesthetic appeal that set the Ferrari 456 apart.
Interior Refinement
Evolved over the years, the interior offers standard luxury along with customization options growing towards the end of the model’s lifecycle. The 456 particularly benefited from Ferrari’s Scaglietti personalization program, offering an expanded range of choices.
One could choose from Dayton-style seat inserts, painted brake calipers, Scuderia Ferrari wing shields, leather-covered lower sections replacing carpeted ones, or even a silver dedication plate. The integration of these refined, indulgent features served not just as stylistic enhancements but also as markers of the overall evolution of the Ferrari brand.
2. Ferrari 456 Performance
Here’s a closer look at the performance characteristics of the Ferrari 456:
Engine
The heart of the Ferrari 456 is a 5.5-liter V12 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant is a hallmark of Ferrari’s commitment to high-performance engines. The 65-degree V12 engine is known for its smooth delivery and relentless power, which contributes to the car’s dynamic driving experience.
Horsepower
The engine produces a robust 442 horsepower (328 kW). This high output allows the Ferrari 456 to deliver quick acceleration and a spirited driving performance, making it not just a luxury tourer but also a capable sports car that lives up to the Ferrari legacy.
Acceleration
The Ferrari 456 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.1 seconds. This level of acceleration is quite impressive, considering the vehicle’s size and its grand touring capabilities, blending the line between a sports car and a luxury cruiser seamlessly.
Top Speed
The top speed of the Ferrari 456 is around 188 mph (302 km/h). This makes it one of the fastest cars in its class at the time of its production, showcasing Ferrari’s ability to engineer cars that offer both luxury and extreme performance.
3. Ferrari 456 Price
The price of a Ferrari 456 can vary depending on the model year, mileage, condition, and other factors. Here’s a brief guide:
- The highest recorded sale price was $210,000 for a 1995 Ferrari 456 GT 6-Speed on October 3, 2023.
- The lowest recorded sale price was $29,700 for a 2001 Ferrari 456 M Coupe on October 11, 2019.
- The average price of a Ferrari 456 is $78,706.
Here’s a breakdown of the average sale price by model:
- Ferrari 456 GT: $82,600
- Ferrari 456 GTA: $50,888
- Ferrari 456M GT: $109,403
- Ferrari 456M GTA: $57,155
4. Technical Specifications of Ferrari 456
- Production Years: 1992-2003
- Body Style: 2-door coupé
- Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive
- Engine Type: 5.5-liter (5474 cc) 65° V12
- Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic M5.2 fuel injection
- Compression Ratio: 10.6:1
- Horsepower: 442 hp (328 kW) at 6,250 rpm
- Torque: 406 lb-ft (550 Nm) at 4,500 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
- 0-60 mph: 5.1 seconds
- Top Speed: 188 mph (302 km/h)
- Wheelbase: 2,600 mm (102.4 in)
- Length: 4,750 mm (187 in)
- Width: 1,920 mm (75.6 in)
- Height: 1,300 mm (51.2 in)
- Curb Weight: About 1,690 kg (3,726 lbs)
- Suspension: Independent suspension with coil springs, gas dampers, and anti-roll bar
- Brakes: Ventilated disc brakes with ABS
- Steering: Power-assisted rack and pinion
- Combined: Approximately 15 mpg (U.S. gallons), subject to driving conditions and style
- Interior Features: Luxurious leather upholstery, wood trim, and modern conveniences such as automatic climate control and a high-quality sound system.
- Safety Features: Includes dual front airbags and sophisticated anti-lock braking system.
5. Pros and Cons of Owning a Ferrari 456
Owning a Ferrari 456 offers a thrilling and luxurious experience, but it comes with a hefty price tag. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right car for you:
Pros:
- Exhilarating Performance: The Ferrari 456 packs a powerful V12 engine that delivers an unforgettable driving experience. The sound alone is legendary.
- Elegant Design and Exclusivity: Pininfarina’s timeless design turns heads wherever you go. With production ending in 2003, the 456 is a rare sight on the road.
- Gran Turismo Capabilities: The 2+2 seating offers surprising practicality for weekend getaways. The luxurious interior with high-quality materials provides a comfortable environment for both driver and passengers.
- Potential Investment: Classic Ferraris like the 456 can appreciate in value over time, especially well-maintained examples.
Cons:
- High Maintenance Costs: Owning a Ferrari is expensive. Parts are specialized and require service from mechanics familiar with the brand, driving up the cost.
- Fuel Consumption: The V12 engine is a gas guzzler. Be prepared for high running costs, especially with rising fuel prices.
- Limited Practicality: While the 2+2 seating offers some backseat space, it’s not ideal for large families. Cargo space is also limited compared to most cars.
- Attention-grabbing: The Ferrari name attracts attention, which might not be for everyone.
6. Variants of Ferrari 456
The original version of the Ferrari 456 was the GT, introduced in 1992. It featured the classic 5.5-liter V12 engine, delivering robust performance with 442 horsepower. This model came standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, emphasizing its sporty nature. The 456 GT set the standard with its elegant design, featuring a luxurious interior trimmed in leather and wood, and it remained true to Ferrari’s grand touring ethos, providing ample space for four adults.
2. Ferrari 456 GTA
In 1996, Ferrari introduced the 456 GTA, which featured an automatic transmission. The GTA was equipped with a 4-speed automatic gearbox that broadened its appeal to those seeking a more relaxed driving experience without sacrificing the performance Ferrari is known for. This model was particularly appealing to drivers in urban environments or those who preferred not to use a manual gearbox.
3. Ferrari 456M GT
The 456 underwent a significant update in 1998, resulting in the 456M GT (Modificata). This version featured several enhancements over the original GT, including revised styling cues like a new front grille, improved aerodynamics, and minor interior updates for better comfort and functionality. Mechanically, the 456M GT retained the same engine and performance specifications but included upgrades to the suspension and chassis to improve handling and ride quality.
4. Ferrari 456M GTA
Similar to its manual counterpart, the 456M GTA provided the same updates and improvements as the 456M GT but came with an automatic transmission. This variant combined the ease of an automatic with the updates of the Modificata series, offering a more contemporary driving experience while maintaining the grand tourer’s luxury features.
Special Editions
While not officially different variants, several special editions and one-off custom versions of the 456 were produced during its lifecycle. These were typically tailored to specific customer requests and included unique color combinations, interior finishes, and occasionally, mechanical tweaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Ferrari 456 GT models were produced?
A total of 1548 Ferrari 456 GT models were manufactured from 1992 to 1998. This low production count signifies the model’s exclusivity in the market.
Is the Ferrari 456 considered a supercar?
Yes, the Ferrari 456 is recognized as a supercar. Notably, it was the final Ferrari to be fitted with pop-up headlights. It’s designed for superior performance, following the renowned front-engined, rear-wheel-drive layout.
What is the 0-60 acceleration of a Ferrari 456?
The 0-60 acceleration time of the Ferrari 456 is not specifically stated in the article, but given its high-performance specs, it’s expected to be relatively low.
Who designed the Ferrari 456 model?
The Ferrari 456 was a design masterpiece by Pietro Camardella and Lorenzo Ramaciotti of Pininfarina. The car’s bodywork was manufactured by Pininfarina until 1996 when Ferrari assumed responsibility.
What is the average worth of a Ferrari 456?
The average worth of a Ferrari 456 GT is approximately $82,600. This valuation is attributed to its high-performance attributes, exclusive features, and limited production run.
Hi! I’m Larry Gibbs, studying mechanical engineering with a focus on cars. I really love Ferraris and write blog posts about the latest car stuff. When not studying or blogging, I’m usually on a road trip exploring new places. I also enjoy playing football and watching movies. Life’s an adventure, and I’m all about enjoying the ride!
