Ferrari 456 GT

Why it matters

Unveiled in Brussels in 1992, the 456 GT replaced the long-serving 412 and restored a classical front-engined V12 flagship to Ferrari's range after a three-year absence. Pininfarina's exceptionally clean body concealed pop-up headlamps, an automatically deploying rear spoiler and four genuine seats within a shape inspired by Ferrari's great 1960s grand tourers. The new 5,474 cc, 65-degree V12 used four valves per cylinder and Bosch Motronic management to produce 442 hp at 6,250 rpm. Mounted behind the front axle and connected to a rear-mounted six-speed manual transaxle, it created near-even weight distribution and propelled the car to 192 mph—making the 456 one of the world's fastest four-seat production cars. Self-leveling rear suspension, electronically adjustable dampers and extensive leather trim balanced performance with long-distance comfort. Ferrari produced 1,548 manual 456 GTs before the updated 456M arrived. Its elegant restraint, naturally aspirated V12 and gated manual gearbox established the blueprint later followed by the 612 Scaglietti and Ferrari's modern four-seat grand tourers.