| A very lightly disguised
prototype of the Ferrari 456GT successor is seen testing around Maranello.
Replacing the decade old large front engine 2+2 'Grand Tourer' model, the
460, which may still be called either the 499 or 500 and most likely be
tagged 'Bologna' will boast the Enzo's 5998cc V12 engine with 650Nm of
torque and 550-560hp at 6500-6600rpm.
Particular attention has
been paid to road handling, one of the 456GT's acknowledged weak points.
The engine has been clearly set further back involving the A-pillar being
moved rearwards significantly. Ferrari engineers hope that this will create
near even weight distribution between front and rear wheels. The steel
chassis of the 456GT has been dispensed with in favour of an aluminium
honeycomb chassis, as used on the 360 Modena/Spider.
Designed once again by Pinifarina
it will debut at Frankfurt Motor Show in September or in light of the significance
of the US market to Ferrari, at the Detroit Show in January next year. |
