456 Reliability ?? Your Opinions requested !!!

[joelk]

Hi there,

I'm considering buying a 456 (approx 1996) and would appreciate anyone's thoughts on their reliability when used as an everyday car.

Also, can anyone suggest what are the 456 specific problems & issues to look out for?

Many thanks,

Joel

[joelk]

Gulp ! That list of faults on ferrari chat is fairly lengthy... I'm moving from a TVR Cerbera, due to being fed up with monthly breakdowns - so want something that's going to be 100% reliable - and not going to cost a fortune it something bad does happen.

Maybe a deep breath and a leap of faith is needed ?

[joelk]

Not sure about a LHD car in UK... not with my overtaking habits! - Having to get all the way into the opposite lane before getting visibility, in some of the most powerful cars ever built doesn't sound like a good idea for me...

I saw that LHD AM DB7 too - a definate bargain. If you're up for a LHD, I'd be tempted to get a Dodge Viper. Rare as hen's teeth, awesome power and bullet proof reliability.

FYI : The 456 is 1994 with 33k (if that sheds any further light on advice issues).

Cheers!

>> Edited by joelk on Tuesday 5th August 15:18

[joelk]

Thanks for the tips guys... I took one for a test run today. After they put in a new battery it drove really well. A far more sophisticated drive than my Cerbera - and surprisingly, more forgiving.

HOWEVER - before we set off I checked the oil cap and it had a creamy coffee like residue on the underside. Does anyone know if this is a very bad sign? - Or are there other possible explainations (other than the engine being cooked) for this?

It's a 94, with 37k, last serviced at 31k - with previous FSH.