The Ferrari 456 was the first front-engine Ferrari for 20 years and offered true performance touring for four occupants.

The 456 GT was announced in September 1992, making its public show debut in Paris the following month.

This was a positive and brave move by the company, as the prestige sports car markets were in recession after all the speculation and hype of the late eighties.

However, they showed their commitment to broadening their range and to maintaining their position at the head of the list of the world's most desirable automobiles.

The Pininfarina styled aluminium bodywork made for a pleasing design, particularly the modernised reflection of the fabled 365 GTB/4 ‘Daytona’ with the long bonnet, featuring retractable headlight pods.

Also inspired by the ‘Daytona’ was the design treatment of the rear of the cabin envelope and tail.

Thus, although the shape was thoroughly modern, it contained retro trace elements to associate it with the company's history.

Electronically...