1997 Ferrari 456 GTA

Highlights

• Argento Nürburgring over Nero leather
• Good service records with documented services from 1998 to 2019, including cambelt changes
• Radiator and heater matrix overhauled in September 2021 at 43,082 miles by Bell Sport & Classic
• Standard specification throughout with no modifications
• Originally supplied by Ferrari Tyne & Wear to a notable first owner
• Private registration plate included in the sale

The Appeal

The Ferrari 456 GTA represents one of the great front-engined V12 grand tourers of the 1990s. Styled by Pininfarina and driven by a magnificent 5.5-litre V12, the Ferrari 456 was designed as a grand tourer built for effortless long-distance travel in the marque’s classic tradition. The GTA variant, with its smooth-shifting automatic transmission, offered a more relaxed driving experience without sacrificing any of the mechanical drama, and has become increasingly appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

This 1997 example is finished in Argento Nürburgring with a Nero leather interior, a colourway that suits the 456's elegant lines particularly well. It was originally supplied by Ferrari Tyne & Wear to Mr Ian Skelly, a prominent oil industry figure and former Director of Rangers Football Club, and comes with good service records spanning across four main dealers and specialists. The vendor describes it as a very clean example for its age, presenting well both inside and out, though it would benefit from some light recommissioning following a period of limited use. With an MOT valid to September 2026 and a private registration plate included in the sale, this is a compelling opportunity to acquire a well-documented V12 Ferrari GT.

History and Paperwork

• UK-supplied, right-hand drive car first registered in September 1997
• Originally supplied via Ferrari Tyne & Wear on September 20 1997
• Good service records dating from 1998 to 2019
• Serviced by Glenvarigill Company Ferrari from 1998 to 2002
• Reportedly serviced by Ferrari Edinburgh (Graypaul) from 2004 to 2006, and AE Performance Engineering from 2007 to 2009
• Looked after by Cheshire Classic Cars LTD from 2012 to 2019
• Cambelts reportedly replaced three times: June 2000 at 4,464 miles (evidenced) November 2004 at 20,241 miles, and April 2009 at 38,381 miles (evidenced)
• Radiator and heater matrix overhauled in September 2021 at 43,082 miles by Bell Sport & Classic
• Last recorded service in July 2019 at 41,937 miles
• Service book, V5C and recent invoices supplied
• MOT valid to September 2026
• Private registration plate included in the sale
• 44,425 miles shown on the odometer, supported by service records

Service history shown in image gallery:

• 07/2019 - 41,937 miles - Cheshire Classic Cars
• 07/2015 - 41,123 miles - Cheshire Classic Cars
• 01/2012 - 40,511 miles - Cheshire Classic Cars
• 04/2009 - 38,291 miles - AE Performance Engineering (inc. timing belts)
• 09/2002 - 7,080 miles - Glenvargill Company Ferrari
• 08/2001 - 5,949 miles - Glenvargill Company Ferrari
• 05/2001 - 5,949 miles - Glenvargill Company Ferrari
• 06/2000 - 4,464 miles - Glenvargill Company Ferrari (inc. timing belts)
• 09/1999 - 4,160 miles - Glenvargill Company Ferrari
• 09/1998 - 3,099 miles - Glenvargill Company Ferrari

The Condition

• Finished in Argento Nürburgring over a Nero leather interior with Cavallino emblems embossed on the head restraints
• 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels with coloured Cavallino centre caps, black brake callipers and Pirelli Asimmetrico tyres
• Electronically-controlled suspension system developed in collaboration with Bilstein
• Ferrari-branded CD-stereo
• Has been in very little use for a number of years and would benefit from some light recommissioning after storage
• Exterior presents well for its age with no scuffs, dents or damage beyond minimal wear and tear
• Some stone chips and light bubbling noted on the C-pillars
• Dashboard is shrinking, which is a common fault with the 456, but is said to be repairable with heat and glue
• Interior presents well overall
• Some pitting to the gear selector surround
• Bonnet release has broken (Common problem on these) but there is an temporary fix in place to open the bonnet

The Mechanics

• Dry-sump 5.5-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine, known internally as the F116 B/C
• Produces 436bhp at 6,250rpm, and 406 lb-ft of torque at 4,500rpm
• 5,474cc, each individual cylinder displaces 456cc, giving the car its name
• Bosch Motronic management system
• Four-speed automatic transmission
• Electronically-controlled suspension system developed in collaboration with Bilstein
• 0-62mph in roughly 5.5 seconds, top speed of 185mph

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