456M or 4200GT

[Andrew Richmond]

I have read with interest all the comments on the 456 recently but the question for me when I replace my 3200GT is do I buy an early 456M manual, say 98 or 99, or a (nearly) new 03 spec 4200GT manual?

I have a number of pluses and negatives as does my local dealer but I would like to benefit from the opinion of those here.

PS I have driven 02 and 03 4200's and the 550 but never a 456.

[Andrew Richmond]

Thanks for the thoughts - I was offered a loaded 52 plate manual 4200 coupe from a dealer for £45k a few weeks ago but having driven both I would prefer an 03 car.

I fell in love with the 456 a few years ago and understand that I should be buying a 'M' car. These are now becoming affordable (if you can find a manual, but I'm prepared to wait) and as I own three cars I am only likely to do 5k or 6k miles pa in the Maser or Ferrari.

Has anyone driven both (456M/4200GT) and can give straight forward comparison of the driving experience alone without masking it with other variables?

[Andrew Richmond]

Kevin, 4200GT I was offered for £45k was up at £47,995 (still is!)

Maranello have a two year old manual 456M (silver, yuck!) up at £88k but I've moved from 5 miles away from Egham back up to Scotland - hard to find a manual up here! Anyway don't like Maranello margins.

Interestinly Maranello's website does not allow a search on pre 'M' 456's. Are these too grotty to be sold at the Tower Garage?

[Andrew Richmond]

Great drop in under a year is'nt it - £65k+ to £42k!!!!!!!!!!!!!