Which color do you envision when you hear the name “Ferrari“? It’s extremely likely you picture red because a red Ferrari has been a go-to status symbol for decades. Our Pick of the Day, a 1995 Ferrari 456 GT posted on ClassicCars.com by a dealer in New York, shows that Prancing Horses can look great in other colors, too.
After Ferrari stopped production of the angular 412 2+2 in 1989, three years would pass until the storied brand introduced another front-engine 2+2. Instead of evolving the 412’s wedge shape, Ferrari went further back in its history and drew inspiration from a much more iconic model: the 365 GTB/4, aka “Daytona.” As Ferrari puts it, the influence on the 456’s largely aluminum bodywork is visible in “the long bonnet, featuring retractable headlight pods, running into a set back cabin. Also inspired by the ‘Daytona’ was the design treatment of the rear of the cabin envelope and tail.” The end result is a tasteful, subtle (as subtle as a V12 Ferrari can be, at least) GT that pays tribute to one of its ancestors without aping its design.
For the 456’s engine, Ferrari started fresh, leaving behind the old flat-12 used in the Berlinetta Boxer, Testarossa, and their descendants. The F116 B 5.5-liter V12‘s two banks of cylinders were set at a 65-degree angle and equipped with track-friendly dry-sump lubrication. Ferrari rated the new V12 at 442 horsepower (although many outlets show 436) and 406 lb-ft of torque. The 456 GT’s gearbox was new as well, making the 456 the first Ferrari road car with an all-synchromesh six-speed transaxle. Together, the engine and transmission were able to bring the 456 to 62 mph in 5.2 seconds and a top speed north of 186 mph.
In the 1990s, there were much flashier Ferraris, such as the F355 and F50. By comparison, the 456 is understated, which adds to its appeal. It’s a different kind of Ferrari, for those whose style is “stealth wealth”—especially in this particular 456’s Canna Di Fucile finish.
With its rich tan leather, the four-seat cabin is the perfect complement to the low-key paint. Power front seats, adjustable dampers, a self-leveling rear suspension, and air conditioning will enable the future driver of this modern classic to rack up hundreds of miles at a clip in total comfort. He or she will also have peace of mind knowing this 56K-mile 456 underwent a $14,000 service at Ferrari of Seattle in 2023 that included new suspension bushings. In addition to service records, it also comes with its original manuals and some tools. You can be that future driver of this 1995 Ferrari 456 GT for $94,500.
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com
