Description
The Ferrari 456 GTA was the automatic-transmission version of Ferrari’s elegant front-engined V12 grand tourer, produced between 1993 and 2003. It marked Ferrari’s return to a front-engined 2+2 layout after a long gap since the Ferrari 412, and it was designed to offer a blend of performance, luxury, and practicality for buyers who wanted a Ferrari that could be driven daily as comfortably as it could cross continents.
At the heart of the 456 GTA was a 5.5-liter V12 engine, developing around 442 horsepower. This engine was mated to a four-speed automatic transmission supplied by General Motors, which was refined and durable but also smooth enough to suit the car’s grand touring character. While the manual 456 GT was the enthusiast’s choice, the GTA was aimed at a more cosmopolitan audience who wanted the convenience of an automatic gearbox without sacrificing Ferrari performance. Even with the automatic, the car could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in about 5.5 seconds and reach a top speed of over 300 km/h, making it one of the fastest four-seat cars of its era.
Styling was handled by Pininfarina, and the 456 GTA was notable for its understated beauty. Its long hood, flowing lines, retractable headlights, and discreet rear profile gave it a timeless elegance. Unlike many other Ferraris, it did not shout for attention but projected quiet confidence, which suited its role as a luxurious touring machine. The 2+2 seating arrangement provided room for four, although the rear seats were best suited for shorter trips or smaller passengers.
Inside, the 456 GTA was trimmed in high-quality leather, with deep carpeting and refined details. It came equipped with features expected in a luxury car of its class, including climate control, power seats, and a well-appointed dashboard. Comfort was as much a focus as performance, and the car was praised for its ability to cover long distances effortlessly.
The Ferrari 456 GTA is remembered today as a sophisticated grand tourer that balanced Ferrari’s sporting DNA with a level of usability that few of the company’s cars had offered before. It appealed to buyers who wanted a Ferrari that could be driven every day in comfort, while still delivering the thrill of a V12 engine. With its combination of elegance, performance, and rarity, it has become an increasingly appreciated modern classic among enthusiasts.