Ferrari 456 1998 - M GTA 2-Door

This lot will be auctioned via Historics Classic and Sportscar Auctioneers at The Brooklands Velocity; Mercedes-Benz World sale on Saturday 29th November. In current ownership for 22 yearsFully restored in 2022, with almost £60,000 spentExceptional conditionThe 456, released in 1992, was a modern-day reimagining of Ferraris overlooked 365 GTC/4 -produced for just 18 months back in 1971/72. Maranello released the upgraded 456M - meaning Modificata - at the 1998 Geneva Motor Show, which featured improved aerodynamics and cooling; the Connolly leather interior was refreshed with new seats and a new Becker stereo. Visually, the 456 had a smaller grille and fog lights outside the grille. The power output remained unchanged on the Modificata, but the cylinder firing order was changed for smoother running. Aerodynamically efficient with a subtly beautiful curvaceous body, the 456 featured a front-mounted four-cam 5.5 litre V12 - which produced a massive 398 ft lb of torque at 4500rpm - rear transaxle, tubular steel space frame chassis, and all-independent suspension.This example is presented in gorgeous dark metallic blue over Magnolia Connolly leather and features an automatic gearbox, perfect for grand-touring. Our vendor purchased the car in 2003, at which point it only had 3,000 miles on the clock. He has enjoyed the car extensively since, however, now needs to reduce his collection. In 2022, our vendor sent his 456M to Ferrari main dealer Graypaul Nottingham for a full restoration, which ended up costing almost £60,000 and included an engine rebuild, full respray and interior re-trim in Connolly leather. Photos of the restoration can be requested, and all invoices are included with the sale. Overall, this is an exceptional example of a fabulous Ferrari grand-tourer, in a superb specification and in very good mechanical condition. Consigned by Charlie McCreery