1998 Ferrari 456 GTA V12 Auto

Four seat grand tourers – with a v12 engine – are amongst the most coveted and collectible cars the world.

The Ferrari 456 remains an affordable entry into the elusive club. Built between 1992 and 1998, a total of 1548 examples were made – with around 200 rumoured to be factory right-hand drive examples, like this one.

Originally sold new in Singapore then delivered to Australia later in 2003, this end-of-life 1998 Ferrari 456 is one of the last ever made. As a result, it features an improved version of Ferrari’s illustrious V12, called the Tipo F116 C.

Later model 456s with the ‘C’ designation engine received an improved version of Bosch Motronic fuel injection system, that made the V12 even-more reliable – despite already forging a reputation as a strong, Dino-based Ferrari motor.

The main benefits were improved drivability and response, and a switch in firing order to make the V12 smoother than before. It’s also factory automatic version, making it the last-ever Ferrari to use a conventional torque-converter automatic.

The low-down power reserves and smooth transmission play to its four-seat grand tourer strengths. As a side benefit, not only are traditional hydraulic autos bulletproof compared to fancier, and arguably more cumbersome dual-clutch units, but also smoother to enjoy on the road.

It makes this Ferrari one you’ll enjoy using throughout summer. Being most powerful production Ferrari of its day means it isn’t strapped for performance either.

With 55,000km now on the odometer and benefitting from a recent cambelt change, its unique blue-over-blue colourway ties a nice bow on this rare, end-of-series V12 Ferrari.

Get in before everyone else cottons on.