Positioning:
The Ferrari 456 GT was positioned as a front-engined, V12 grand tourer, designed for comfortable long-distance driving with potent performance, a departure from Ferrari's traditional mid-engined layout.
Competitors:
Competed with other high-performance luxury GT cars of its era, such as the Aston Martin DB7, Bentley Continental R, and the Porsche 911 Turbo (993 generation).
Distinctive Features:
Front-mounted V12 engine, classic coupe styling, luxurious 2+2 seating, and a blend of supercar performance with GT comfort.
Manual Value:
Essential for owners seeking to maintain or repair their 456 GT, potentially saving significant costs compared to dealership service. Covers a wide range of technical areas.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, internal components, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Management:
Ignition system, fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic 2.10 or similar), engine sensors, ECU diagnostics.
Drivetrain:
Clutch (single dry plate), gearbox (manual and automatic variants), transmission overhaul, differential, driveshafts.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension systems (double wishbone), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, power steering system, steering rack.
Braking System:
Brake hydraulics, ABS system, brake calipers, discs, pads, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting systems, gauges, power windows, central locking, fuse box locations and functions.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system (compressor, refrigerant, HVAC controls), heating system.
Interior And Body:
Interior trim removal/installation, dashboard, controls, body panel alignment, door mechanisms.
General Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Engine Repair:
Engine rebuild procedures, cylinder head gasket replacement, valve timing, piston ring replacement.
Transmission Repair:
Gearbox overhaul for both manual and automatic transmissions, clutch replacement, torque converter service.
Brake Service:
Brake pad and disc replacement, brake bleeding, ABS component diagnosis and replacement.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Component testing, wiring repair, ECU diagnostics using appropriate tools.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Component replacement, alignment procedures, steering system repair.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering general maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and technical specifications.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V12
Displacement:
5.5 Liters (5473 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
87 mm x 77.1 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.3:1
Valve Train:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
436 hp (325 kW) at 6200 rpm
Torque:
568 Nm (419 lb-ft) at 4750 rpm
Injection System:
Bosch Motronic 2.10 (or similar generation sequential multi-point fuel injection)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (95 RON or higher)
Oil Type Specification:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity and API/ACEA ratings. Typically a high-performance synthetic oil is recommended, e.g., SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant with anti-corrosion additives. Refer to manual for specific Ferrari-approved mixture.
Type:
6-speed Manual Transaxle
Type:
4-speed Automatic (Torque Converter) - marketed as 456 GTA (Gran Turismo Automatico)
Layout:
Rear transaxle configuration (engine front, gearbox rear for optimal weight distribution)
Manual Gearbox Oil:
Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil specification and viscosity grade. Typically a high-quality synthetic gear oil.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific ATF type and specifications (e.g., Dexron III or equivalent).
Audio System:
Typically equipped with a premium audio system of its era, often from brands like Nakamichi or Clarion, with CD player and radio. Manual details operation and troubleshooting.
ABS:
Standard ABS system as mentioned in safety.
Traction Control:
Standard ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) system.
Original Connectivity:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on audio and climate control systems. Manual details these integrated systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first. However, for high-performance vehicles, annual changes are often recommended regardless of mileage. Refer to the manual for precise intervals.
Major Service Interval:
Significant services, including timing belt replacement (if applicable, though the 456 GT uses a timing chain), spark plugs, and other major component checks, typically around 30,000 miles (50,000 km). Detailed schedule in manual.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Refer to manual. Typically around 10-12 liters for a V12.
Coolant Capacity:
Refer to manual. Typically around 12-15 liters.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 high-performance brake fluid. Refer to manual for exact specification.
Common Problems:
Potential issues include aging electrical components, minor oil leaks from gaskets, and wear items on suspension and braking systems due to age. The manual will guide diagnosis and repair of these.
Maintenance Focus:
Regular maintenance of the V12 engine, lubrication systems, and cooling system is critical for longevity and performance. The manual highlights these areas.
Legacy:
Ferrari has a rich heritage in motorsport and luxury sports car manufacturing, with a legacy built on performance, design, and exclusivity.
Predecessor:
The 456 GT succeeded the Ferrari 412 and marked a return to the front-engined V12 GT formula for Ferrari.
Successor:
The 456 GT was eventually succeeded by the Ferrari 575M Maranello.
Production Years:
1998-2003
Production Volume:
Approximately 3286 units produced in total (including 456 GT and 456 GTA).
Manufacturing Location:
Maranello, Italy