Ferrari 456M GT (2002)

In 1992, Ferrari introduced the overdue replacement for the defunct front-engined 412, in the form of the Pininfarina-penned Ferrari 456 GT and 456 GTA. Inspired by the iconic styling of the 365 GTC/4, the 456 was heavily influenced by the concept and style similar to that of the ‘Daytona’.

Using a newly designed tubular steel spaceframe chassis, in combination with composite and aluminium body panels, the new 2 + 2 Ferrari weighed in at just 1690kg. Ferrari had made extensive technological advances since producing their last V12 allowing the all-new powerplant to not only be exceptionally light, but also highly compact. The naturally aspirated 5.5 litre V12 produced 442 bhp at 6,250 rpm and 404lb ft of torque; at the time the second most powerful road car ever produced by Ferrari, humbled by only the F40. 0 to 62 mph was completed in just 5.2 seconds, accelerating towards a top speed of 188 mph, making it the world's fastest production 4-seater.

The 1998 Geneva Motorshow introduced the 456 Modificata. Cosmetically the 456M featured a wealth of changes over that of the original car; a new smoother bonnet, a new, more pointed front bumper featuring a wider intake aperture and inset spot lamps, as well as a redesigned rear bumper with an integrated fixed rear spoiler.

The interior was also revised, notably moving the radio ahead of the gearstick, introducing a new three spoke steering wheel, revised dashboard layout with three round air vents instead of the preceding rectangular units.

Mechanically the 'M' saw revised front control arms, larger front brakes from the 550 Maranello, uprated ABS with new ASR traction control system. The engine remained the same, although the firing order was revised, improving smoothness.