Vehicle Overview
While most Ferrari models are two-seaters, the 456M holds four, with the usual front buckets and a cozy two-place rear seat. Unlike the 360 Modena, which has a mid-engine design, the 456Ms V-12 engine sits in the front. The 456 also carries a much higher base price $224,800 versus $138,225 for the 360.
Ferrari describes the 456M as a 2+2 berlinetta the numbers denote the seating arrangements, and berlinetta is Italian for little sedan, what is commonly called a coupe.
Exterior
The 456M is about a foot longer than the two-seat 360 Modena at 187 inches overall, and it sports styling by Pininfarina, an Italian design studio that has penned numerous Ferraris. A cross-hatch grille, large side scallops, a classic long-hood and short rear-deck profile, and softer lines than other current Ferraris are among the major styling cues.
Body panels are aluminum, except for the carbon fiber hood, and the chassis is steel.
Interior
Body-hugging leather seats in the front and rear are designed to hold occupants securely in spirited driving. The front passenger seat automatically slides forward when the backrest is tilted to ease entry and exit to and from the rear seat.
Under the Hood
The 5.5-liter V-12 the same engine used in the 550 Maranello produces 436 horsepower in the 456M and a top speed of more than 186 miles per hour, according to Ferrari. Transmission choices are a standard six-speed manual for the GT model or an optional five-speed automatic for the GTA.