1994 Ferrari 456 GT - Manual G/Box

During its time the Ferrari 456 was the fastest production four seater in the world. Powered by what was essentially a de-tuned version of the engine powering the 550 and 575, the new 5.5-liter V12 unleashed no less than 442 hp. Except for the F40, the 456 was the most powerful road car developed by Ferrari up to that time.

For the 456, Pininfarina worked its magic to create a subtly beautiful curvaceous body contrasting with the hard edges of its predecessor. Aerodynamically efficient, the 456 remained stable up to its maximum speed of around 190 mph. Acclaimed on its debut, the 456's styling has not dated and is a tribute to Pininfarina's vision in creating one of most beautiful vehicle designs of modern times.

Supplied new by Lancaster's of Essex this particular 456 is 1 of only 141 manual gearbox cars to be supplied to the UK and as such makes this a very rare V12 Ferrari. Finished in Blue Tour de France with contrasting cream hide interior this car looks absolutely stunning from any angle. Its paintwork has a mirror deep shine throughout and less some minor stone chips to the bonnet is in superb order throughout, the 550 alloys are clean and glaze free and indicate careful ownership.

We are informed by the vendor that there is a comprehensive service history file made up of both main dealer and independent Ferrari specialist. Reassuringly, since 2010 it has been maintained by SMDG of Surrey, there is paperwork indicating expenditure with them over recent years of just over £8,000 with the most recent being a major service including the critical cambelt change in September of 2012. The mileage of 52,750 is warranted and supported by both its history file and previous MOT certificates. All handbooks are in the correct wallet and it comes complete with two sets of keys and Ferrari tool kit. This V12 springs into life with a silken whoosh, settling immediately into a muted even idle. Once warm, oil and water temperature needles sit mid gauge and oil pressure is good.

There's a simple atmosphere to the interior which is pleasingly bereft of distracting trinkets with a handsome display of analogue instruments and it is refreshingly free from the sort of electronic gadgetry that can be frustratingly intrusive in the generation of big Ferraris that succeeded it. This 456 has the slotted aluminium seven figured gate and robust gear-lever that you want to find in any Ferrari. The appeal of this car is its transmission; the way it slots with such well-oiled positivity, rewarding down changes with a sweetness that makes you want to get it right every time. Regrets? Every time you open your garage door and view this beautiful car and wonder why it ever took you so long to own one.