Unveiled at the FF40 International Celebrations that took place in Brussels and at Spa Francorchamps during September 1992, the 456 GT replaced Ferrari’s 412 which had itself been an evolution of the 365 GT4 originally launched back in 1972.

With its beautiful Pininfarina styling, superb chassis dynamics, lusty new 442bhp V12 and outstanding build quality, the 456 GT re-defined what was possible from a front-engined 2+2. Despite depressed economic conditions, orders poured in from around the world.

An automatic transmission GTA variant was added to the range in 1996 and a further enhanced Modificato (the 456M) subsequently came on stream in 1998. However, for most enthusiasts, the original six-speed manual remains the most sought after iteration of this elegant model that kick-started Ferrari’s revival under the management of Luca di Montezemolo.