1998 Ferrari 456M Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Ferrari 456M has a curb weight of 1690 kg (3,726 lbs), which represents the weight of the car without passengers or cargo but including all necessary operating consumables such as oil and a full tank of fuel. Its maximum weight capacity is 2100 kg (4,630 lbs), indicating the car can accommodate an additional load, including passengers and luggage, up to this weight safely. This weight balance supports both performance dynamics and comfort, characteristic of a high-end grand tourer.

The Ferrari 456M features a low ground clearance of 119 mm (4.7 inches). Such a low ride height is typical for high-performance sports cars and grand tourers as it lowers the vehicle's center of gravity, thus improving handling and cornering stability. However, this also means the car may be more susceptible to scraping on speed bumps or steep driveways, which owners should be mindful of to avoid damage. The low clearance emphasizes performance but requires careful navigation on uneven surfaces.

The Ferrari 456M offers a luggage capacity of 316 liters (approximately 11.2 cubic feet), which is quite generous for a two-door grand tourer. This space is sufficient for a couple of medium-sized suitcases or several smaller bags, making it practical for long drives or weekend trips. The 456M balances performance with usability by providing enough cargo space for comfortable touring without compromising its sleek coupe design.

With a length of 4763 mm (187.4 inches) and width of 1920 mm (75.6 inches), the Ferrari 456M can fit into a standard garage, although precise fit depends on garage size. Many standard single-car garages are typically about 2.5 to 3 meters wide (98 to 118 inches) and around 5 to 6 meters long (197 to 236 inches), so the 456M’s footprint fits within these dimensions with some clearance. However, owners should consider door width and turning space within the garage, ensuring comfortable entry and exit for the car.

The Ferrari 456M is essentially a facelift and evolution of the original Ferrari 456, retaining similar dimensions but with subtle refinements. Both models share the same fundamental platform and body size, with the 456M continuing the 4763 mm length, 1920 mm width, and 1300 mm height. The 456M introduces design updates for improved aerodynamics and aesthetics but maintains the spacious and grand touring proportions of its predecessor, keeping the size and usability consistent while enhancing performance and styling.

In comparison to other grand tourers produced in the late 1990s and early 2000s, such as the Aston Martin DB7 or the Jaguar XK8, the Ferrari 456M is quite comparable in size but slightly larger overall. Its length of 4763 mm (187.4 inches) and width of 1920 mm (75.6 inches) put it on the upper end of the size spectrum, offering a more substantial road presence. Its curb weight of 1690 kg (3,726 lbs) is also in line with similarly equipped grand tourers, balancing luxury and performance. The 456M's combination of grand dimensions and Ferrari engineering make it stand out in its class.

The Ferrari 456M is equipped with tire sizes of 285/40 R17, which are quite wide and sport-focused. Tires of this size provide a large contact patch with the road, improving grip and cornering ability, essential for a high-performance grand tourer. The 17-inch wheel diameter offers a balance between ride comfort and sporty handling, allowing for responsive steering while maintaining a relatively smooth ride for long-distance comfort. Overall, these tires contribute to the car’s confident road manners and dynamic capabilities.

The Ferrari 456M, as a grand tourer, is designed to blend high performance with comfort, making it suitable for both spirited drives and longer journeys. Its spacious interior and practical luggage capacity support everyday usability better than many pure sports cars. However, its low ground clearance and performance-oriented maintenance needs might limit practical daily use for some owners. Typically, it excels as a weekend or special-occasion vehicle for enthusiasts who appreciate its luxury and performance balance.

The Ferrari 456M is distinguished by its elegant design cues, including a sleeker front fascia, updated headlights, and subtle aerodynamic improvements compared to the original 456. Engineered as a front-engine V12 grand tourer, it delivers effortless power and smoothness with a focus on high-speed stability and driver comfort. The 456M meshes Ferrari’s legendary engine technology with a refined chassis, creating a unique blend of luxury, performance, and classic Italian craftsmanship that sets it apart from contemporaneous GT cars.