[felix66]

Hi

can anyone offer any buying advice on a 456 GT. I tested one out today and really liked it but it had one or two problems and I am not sure if they are the norm.

The main problem was the door glass didn't contact properly with the rubber strips on the rear quarterlight windows. allowed a lot of wind to noise to be created.

anyone know if this is common? What else should I be looking for? Would I be better off with a 355 for the same money?

Thanks for your help

 

[Azzurro California 575M]

You really need to test drive the 355 to know exactly what you want. If you need four seats or like the convenience of it, then go for the 456 GT. However, if you really want a sporty two-seat screaming V8, take a look at the 355. In my opinion, the 456 GT is really a deal because they are not in high demand because of the four seats, recent release of the 612 Scaglietti (the successor), the controversial design and the fact that it has a quieter V12 engine. Despite all of this, the 456 GT is a very classy car. It is a car of the Montezemolo era along with the 355 where Ferrari began to focus on quality control. You certainly need to shop around and don't hesitate to look at places you normally wouldn't look. Ebay may be a good place to start. Don't be afraid do get expert opinions to make sure you don't get a lemon. The advantage of the 456 GT is that you can get a very expensive car with low mileage and don't have to pay a lot because the bulk of the depreciation rests on the former owners, not you as the buyer. I call that smart-buying my friend. You could go for the 355, but because it is a bit more desirable, you are going to pay for it.

 

[sparky1601]

Hi:

I have had a 456GT 6 speed for the last 4 years and the car has been a great performer and orther than normal maint. a joy to own. My windows seem to seal fine...heard there is a re-alignment process that can be done by the dealer. I would ask for that if you decide to buy. The only issue I've had with the windows have been the window does not retract once in a while...resetting the car's electronics and battery seem to take care of it

MB

 

[Stradale]

A few of my friends have the early generation 456. They're great cars but there are inherent problems with the window not sealing properly, the headlights not opening/shutting properly. There was a factory recall/repair on the windows, so do check whether that has been done. As for the headlights, they'll happen anytime so it's something that you have to live with.

The 355 gives less problem. But then again that's a 2 seater and a different car altogether. What are you really looking for?

 

[Boxer]

I am fortunate enough to have both a 456 GT and a 355 GTS. They are very different cars and you need to drive both to decide which you prefer. The 456 is the ultimate GT - Grand Tourer and if that is your intention for usage then this is the ultimate car. The 355 is a road and track car, great to drive for a few hours; but not up to the Grand Continental several week tour. The 2 major issues I found when looking at 456 s where the windows and rear suspension.