The Ferrari 456 was one of the most tame Ferraris of recent memory and brought back the idea of a grand touring Ferrari to the modern era in the US. Before the end of production, Ferrari released a limited production 456 modeled after the car that Formula 1 Champion Michael Schumacher owned. Buyers could specify this limited edition package via the Carrozzeria Scaglietti Program. Included in this "Schumacher Edition" was a two tone color scheme, special leather interior, revised instrumentation and an upgraded suspension with drilled Brembo brakes. This particular 456M for sale in San Francisco is claimed to be one of only three of its kind to make its way to US shores.

2003 Ferrari 456M Schumacher Edition

This 2003 Ferrari 456M GT Bi colore "Schumacher Edition" is very rare with 11k miles from new! This rarest of rare Ferrari special editions is now available for your consideration. One of less than 20 total built for the world and one of only 3 known to have come to the U.S. market, this is an amazing opportunity for the discerning collector. Ordered new from The Auto Gallery in Woodland Hills for a special client and now available to you if you act fast. The vehicle is as follows:

Exterior:

Extracampanario (special order) Maserati Grigio Nuvolari exterior paint (body)
Canna di Fusille (dark grey) roof color

Interior:

Grigio Scuro leather
Grigio Scuro carpets
Bordeaux stitching

Options:

Red brake calipers
Factory battery charger
Two-tone paint scheme
Dark grey painted wheels
Drilled Brembo brake calipers
Stitching throughout in Bordeaux

The Schumacher Edition was based on the vehicle built for and given to Michael Schumacher when he won the world championship, the dominant characteristic is the two tone paint. This elegant tone on tone color mix was obtained through a special study on the chromatic tones of grey, then also applied to other exterior details such as the wheels and front grille. Ferrari went one step further and gave specialized options to the car such as new graphics for the instruments, interior leather trim, and drilled brake calipers a la the 550 Maranello. #132385 is in exceptional, almost new condition and was delivered new 02/06/04 making it one of the last 456M built for the U.S.

Normally, I'm a fan of the 456, but this special edition seems a bit too brash for my tastes. Generally, more subdued colors work well on this car versus the two tone we see here. Late model examples of the 456 can range between $60,000 to $80,000. With a reserve higher than that range, I'd assume the seller is looking for a sum closer to six figures. For what is essentially a color and trim package, will this car warrant the premium?

-Paul