UNTHINKABLE TRAGEDY: James’ Left Eye Damage Leaves Nathan Shattered!
Ferrari 296 GTB: A New Era of Electrifying Italian Supercar Performance
San Francisco, CA – For a decade, the supercar landscape has been a battleground of V8s and V10s, a symphony of naturally aspirated roars and twin-turbo growls. As an industry veteran with ten years immersed in the world of high-performance automotive engineering and market analysis, I’ve witnessed firsthand the relentless pursuit of power and innovation. Yet, few introductions have shifted the paradigm as profoundly as Ferrari’s 296 GTB. This isn’t merely an evolution; it’s a revolution, a bold declaration that the future of the supercar, even for iconic brands like Ferrari, is undeniably hybrid. Even with formidable rivals like the anticipated Lamborghini Temerario on the horizon, the 296 GTB continues to redefine what’s possible, setting a blistering pace for its competitors.
The arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 marked an unprecedented departure from Maranello’s established formula. Forgoing the celebrated, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 that powered previous generations, Ferrari embraced a completely new twin-turbocharged V6, artfully augmented by electric power. This strategic pivot positioned the 296 GTB at the vanguard of the supercar segment, a tier that, at the time of its debut, was only beginning its transition toward widespread hybrid adoption.
In its nascent stages, the 296 GTB’s most direct contemporary was the Lamborghini Huracán, celebrated for its sonorous, naturally aspirated V10. While it may have been outgunned in raw horsepower figures, the Huracán exuded a charisma and a visceral aural symphony that captivated enthusiasts. Parallel to this, the ferocious McLaren 720S, with its potent twin-turbo V8, also commanded significant attention. Now, with the McLaren 750S representing an evolution of that theme, emphasizing power-to-weight supremacy, the 903 bhp, 10,000 rpm V8 hybrid Temerario emerges as Lamborghini’s potent riposte to Ferrari’s 819 bhp electrified Berlinetta. This strategic intensification underscores the escalating arms race in the hypercar market, with hybrid supercar performance becoming the new benchmark.
The 296 GTB certainly packs an astonishing amount of firepower. Its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, seamlessly integrated with an electric motor to exclusively power the rear wheels (a distinction from the four-wheel-drive SF90), churns out a combined 819 bhp. This groundbreaking configuration shattered conventional supercar expectations. The sheer magnitude of this power output is almost overwhelming, prompting contemplation on where this relentless escalation of performance will eventually culminate – and more importantly, where such exhilarating capability can be fully unleashed.
This marks a significant moment: the 296 GTB is the first V6-powered Ferrari road car to bear the iconic Prancing Horse emblem (the exquisite 246 GT Dino, while V6-powered, never officially wore the badge in its era). It also pioneers Ferrari’s ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger arrangement, a design that centralizes the turbos within the engine’s V-angle for enhanced efficiency and responsiveness. Furthermore, it’s a plug-in hybrid, boasting an electric-only range of approximately 15 miles, offering a glimpse into sustainable high-performance driving. The compact V6 is nestled low within a newly developed aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase shortened by 50 mm compared to its V8 predecessors. This packaging adjustment also places the occupants slightly further forward, contributing to an altered center of gravity and driving dynamic.
The electric motor itself contributes an impressive 165 bhp and 232 lb-ft of torque, while the V6 alone produces a staggering 654 bhp and 546 lb-ft. The combined output is the headline-grabbing 819 bhp. Ferrari strategically opts not to publish a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the engine and electric motor. However, it’s safe to assume this combined torque is nothing short of colossal, contributing to the V6 hybrid supercar performance that the 296 GTB is renowned for. The V6 unit itself offers a weight saving of approximately 30 kg over Ferrari’s V8 engines, and it’s mated to an ultra-slick eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The compact battery pack, a long, slender structure, is cleverly housed behind the seats, further contributing to the car’s balanced weight distribution.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems. For the 296 GTB, Ferrari has introduced its innovative six-axis sensor, dubbed the 6w-CDS (six-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This advanced system meticulously measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes. Replacing traditional yaw sensors, and working in concert with a sensor on the steering rack, the 6w-CDS provides the car with an intimate understanding of both driver input and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patch. This data allows other vital systems, such as Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, to work in harmony, maximizing cornering speeds while preserving unwavering stability and driver confidence. It also enables a new system called ABS-evo, which, in RACE mode and above, leverages the 296’s brake-by-wire system to not only shorten braking distances but also enhance braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers into corners. This level of integrated control is crucial for managing the immense power of new Ferrari models.
In a significant development, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics technology not to minimize drag, as has been traditional, but to actively generate downforce. The company claims a substantial 360 kg of downforce at 155 mph, with a remarkable 100 kg of that attributed to the deployable rear wing. This active aero is a critical component in the performance tuning of hybrid supercars.
Cooling is meticulously managed. Two radiators in the front fascia handle engine and gearbox heat, complemented by two additional condensers dedicated to battery cooling. Hot air is strategically expelled from the underbody to avoid interfering with the airflow directed to the intercoolers situated along the flanks. The subtle apertures below the headlamps are dedicated to brake cooling, while a roofline-integrated rear wing aids in creating a ‘virtual’ rear screen, channeling air to the rear of the car as if guided by a sculpted surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated from beneath the car. Significant attention has been paid not only to air channelling and the rear diffuser but also to the underbody’s ground clearance, optimizing the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces. This focus on aerodynamic refinement is a hallmark of cutting-edge supercar technology.
The 296 GTBs sampled on the launch circuit were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance upgrade replaces the standard dampers with specialized Multimatic units, derived from GT racing applications. It also incorporates additional carbon fiber aerodynamic elements on the front, increasing front downforce by an additional 20 kg. The cabin and exterior benefit from further carbon fiber applications, contributing to a total weight saving of 12 kg. This can be extended to 15 kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. A further enticing option for Assetto Fiorano-equipped cars is the fitment of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, a step up from the standard Pilot Sport 4S. The Fiorano variant can also be personalized with an exterior graphics package, paying homage to the iconic 250LM of the 1960s. These bespoke options highlight the customization options for high-performance cars.
Having experienced the 296 GTB extensively, its aesthetic is undeniably captivating. It presents a unique and striking design, echoing the spirit of the 250LM even without the more overt graphic treatments. This blend of classic inspiration and futuristic execution is a key differentiator in the luxury sports car market.
Performance and Acceleration:
Initiating motion is as simple as a double press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss and selecting first gear. The 296 defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing for silent, electric-only acceleration unless prompted otherwise via the haptic driver mode selectors on the left side of the steering wheel. Provided throttle inputs remain moderate, the car will continue on pure electric power, contingent on sufficient battery charge.
Drivers can also intentionally select ‘EV mode,’ overriding powertrain demands, or opt for the more aggressive Performance and Qualifying modes. In these settings, both the internal combustion engine and the electric motor work in unison. Performance mode aims to maintain battery charge while delivering strong power, whereas Qualifying mode prioritizes absolute maximum performance, disregarding the battery’s state of charge. This dynamic control is central to the driving experience of electric hybrid supercars.
The sensation of gliding silently through urban environments is an unexpected delight. The adaptive damping is remarkably sophisticated, rendering the cabin a surprisingly comfortable space for covering significant distances. Even the luggage space in the ‘frunk’ is surprisingly practical, a welcome contrast to the SF90. However, the true question on everyone’s mind is the visceral experience when both the engine and electric motor are unleashed in their full glory.
The potency of the hybrid powertrain is immediately evident. Prod the throttle at low revs in a high gear, and the 296 surges forward with an instantaneous response, momentarily making one question the very necessity of gear changes, such is its immediate thrust. Yet, with eight gears at its disposal and an engine that happily revs to 8500 rpm, the full unleashing of the 296’s capabilities is nothing short of astonishing.
The acceleration figures – a sprint from 0-62 mph in a scant 2.9 seconds and a top speed exceeding 205 mph – translate into a relentless, exhilarating rate of acceleration that borders on overwhelming, yet is paradoxically addictive. This is a car of formidable speed. The soundtrack is equally compelling, a melodious V6 rasp complemented by a rich tapestry of turbocharger effects. This sonic landscape is a critical element of the supercar sound experience.
Ride and Handling:
What truly sets the 296 GTB apart is the remarkable responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s stated aim of making this car “fun to drive” is not an exaggeration. It feels incredibly agile without ever tipping into nervousness. The steering, as expected from Ferrari, is light and exceptionally quick, but it also delivers a commendable level of feedback. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car remains delightfully throttle-adjustable, eliciting an irrepressible grin.
Despite its dry weight of 1470 kg, the 296 feels significantly lighter. There’s an inherent lack of inertia throughout the entire car that encourages the driver to work with it, employing subtle inputs and reveling in its precision. Engaging ‘CT Off’ mode allows for audacious maneuvers, underpinned by the reassurance of an intelligent electronic guardian. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296’s inherent balance allows it to be coaxed into oversteer with a delicacy one wouldn’t expect from a car producing 819 bhp. This exemplifies advanced vehicle dynamics in hybrid sports cars.
On the track, the 296 GTB has the uncanny ability to shrink even the longest straights. More apparent, however, is its precision as a sharp instrument. The power is readily available to break rear-wheel traction at numerous points around the lap. Yet, the 296 is also exquisitely sensitive to braking and steering inputs, rewarding precise control with amplified driver engagement. The turn-in accuracy and response dramatically shorten the corner entry phase. Rather than easing into turns and building load, the 296 settles immediately, its Multimatic dampers and hyper-quick steering perfectly complementing the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers transitioning from more conventional sports cars, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 are phenomenal, offering a deeply rewarding experience lap after lap. This track-focused supercar performance is a testament to Ferrari’s engineering prowess.
Interior:
The cabin architecture will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90. The 296 inherits heavily from its flagship sibling, particularly regarding its fully digital interface and the accompanying haptic switchgear. These controls, liberally distributed across the steering wheel and the traditional Ferrari pods flanking it, represent a significant departure.
While undeniably complex, the sheer volume of information to be conveyed necessitates this approach. The primary challenge lies in the occasional need for a second press for simple operations, or uncertainty about whether an input has been successfully registered. Nevertheless, the cabin exudes a special, driver-focused ambiance, a key aspect of the luxury car interior design.
evo Car of the Year 2022 Verdict:
“Now it gets serious,” declared evo’s road testers. “When the scores were tallied, there wasn’t even the width of a road tester’s cigarette paper between the Artura and the 296 GTB. The judges were perfectly split too: three of us narrowly preferred the Ferrari to the McLaren; three scored the Macca ahead by a whisker.”
The three judges who placed the 296 ahead – myself, Meaden, and Bovingdon – were effusive. “What a spectacular car,” enthused Jethro. “Beautiful to look at, outrageously fast, amazingly exploitable, and so technically clever. Its V6 shows McLaren how to downsize but turn up the drama, and it matches the Artura in terms of sheer control but feels a bit more playful and indulgent.”
“The first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” was Dickie’s verdict, a sentiment echoed by many. “The hybrid system works very well, and doesn’t change the driving experience as much as I’d feared. Probably because we’ve already become accustomed to the torquey characteristics of the turbocharged V8 in the 488 and F8. The 296 is stonkingly quick, but doesn’t rely solely on speed thanks to the character of the V6, which has a soundtrack that’s always sweet and changes with throttle opening.”
“The Ferrari’s hybridisation was widely praised for its seamless integration, although on the final night we were left stranded after the battery ran flat with no apparent means of bringing the car back to life. To be fair, Ferrari had warned us of the possibility and detailed the various measures we should take to ensure it didn’t happen. But it’s not inconceivable that an owner could find themselves similarly stuck, and as Gallagher said, ‘that the company who introduced individual rear-wheel steering to its cars can’t engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent this happening is a huge oversight’. Fortunately for the 296, that happened after we’d scored all the cars.”
“Ferrari’s signature super-quick steering divided opinion, the brake feel didn’t match the very best of the group, and the tech interface was widely criticised for being overly complex, but otherwise the 296 was irresistibly seductive. ‘I thought I wouldn’t like the Fezza all that much – too complex, rather gratuitous points of difference,’ said Vivian, ‘but I ended up somewhat bewitched: the spooky way it changes direction; its amazing damping and looney-tunes levels of grip; the linearity of seemingly never-ending power…'”
As Peter Tomalin, from evo’s ECoty 2022, eloquently summarized, “It’s a real return to form for Ferrari, after the SF90 left us cold last year. The 296 is way more successful because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels much more natural, and far less intrusive. Ferrari has taken so much from the SF90, learnt from that car, and distilled it into a series production model that’s one of its very best.”
Price and Rivals:
When a vehicle is so densely packed with cutting-edge technology, there’s always the inherent risk that it might become less than the sum of its parts. This was a concern some felt with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, could feel somewhat unapproachable in its driving characteristics.
However, the 296 GTB represents a distinct evolution. As demonstrated during the 2022 evo Car of the Year competition, where it secured a joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura, the 296 feels far more organic. Its potent blend of power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect balance, redefining the capabilities of a supercar in the approximately $250,000 price bracket. A “Versione Speciale” variant, essentially a codename for a more potent iteration, is anticipated soon, promising even greater power, performance, and intensity. The hope is that the standard 296’s remarkably natural feel will be retained. This focus on supercar value and evolution is keenly watched by enthusiasts.
It is precisely this aspect of the 296 GTB’s character that we hope Lamborghini has scrutinized most intensely when honing its hybrid Temerario supercar. A figure exceeding 900 bhp is an almost obscene amount of power for a series production supercar, and it could easily overwhelm the chassis if not meticulously resolved. If Lamborghini has truly mastered this challenge – and their exemplary execution of the Revuelto provides ample reason for optimism – then we are poised for an epic twin test, featuring a combined output of a staggering 1700 bhp! This represents the apex of V12 hybrid supercar performance versus V6 hybrid.
Alternatively, we could elevate the stakes to a 2400 bhp triple threat, incorporating the McLaren 750S. This model, by comparison, could now be described as the ‘minnow’ of the class, boasting a mere 740 bhp. However, it counters with a relatively petite kerb weight of 1389 kg, ensuring a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s inherent rawness, ergonomic perfection, crisp steering, and agile chassis demonstrably distinguish it against the comparatively detached Ferrari. This competitive landscape highlights the varied approaches to performance car comparisons.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbocharged V6, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819 bhp @ 8000 rpm
Combined Torque: 546 lb-ft @ 6250 rpm
Weight: 1470 kg (dry) (566 bhp/ton)
0-62 mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205 mph
Price: Starting from $320,000 USD (approx.)
The Ferrari 296 GTB is more than just a car; it’s a statement of intent, a bold stride into the electrified future of supercars. Its blend of blistering performance, sophisticated technology, and engaging dynamics sets a new benchmark. For those seeking the pinnacle of automotive innovation and an unparalleled driving experience, the 296 GTB beckons. Discover how this masterpiece of Italian engineering can elevate your driving passion – explore financing options or schedule a personal consultation today to experience the future of Ferrari firsthand.
Ferrari 296 GTB: A New Era of Electrifying Italian Supercar Performance
San Francisco, CA – For a decade, the supercar landscape has been a battleground of V8s and V10s, a symphony of naturally aspirated roars and twin-turbo growls. As an industry veteran with ten years immersed in the world of high-performance automotive engineering and market analysis, I’ve witnessed firsthand the relentless pursuit of power and innovation. Yet, few introductions have shifted the paradigm as profoundly as Ferrari’s 296 GTB. This isn’t merely an evolution; it’s a revolution, a bold declaration that the future of the supercar, even for iconic brands like Ferrari, is undeniably hybrid. Even with formidable rivals like the anticipated Lamborghini Temerario on the horizon, the 296 GTB continues to redefine what’s possible, setting a blistering pace for its competitors.
The arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 marked an unprecedented departure from Maranello’s established formula. Forgoing the celebrated, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 that powered previous generations, Ferrari embraced a completely new twin-turbocharged V6, artfully augmented by electric power. This strategic pivot positioned the 296 GTB at the vanguard of the supercar segment, a tier that, at the time of its debut, was only beginning its transition toward widespread hybrid adoption.
In its nascent stages, the 296 GTB’s most direct contemporary was the Lamborghini Huracán, celebrated for its sonorous, naturally aspirated V10. While it may have been outgunned in raw horsepower figures, the Huracán exuded a charisma and a visceral aural symphony that captivated enthusiasts. Parallel to this, the ferocious McLaren 720S, with its potent twin-turbo V8, also commanded significant attention. Now, with the McLaren 750S representing an evolution of that theme, emphasizing power-to-weight supremacy, the 903 bhp, 10,000 rpm V8 hybrid Temerario emerges as Lamborghini’s potent riposte to Ferrari’s 819 bhp electrified Berlinetta. This strategic intensification underscores the escalating arms race in the hypercar market, with hybrid supercar performance becoming the new benchmark.
The 296 GTB certainly packs an astonishing amount of firepower. Its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, seamlessly integrated with an electric motor to exclusively power the rear wheels (a distinction from the four-wheel-drive SF90), churns out a combined 819 bhp. This groundbreaking configuration shattered conventional supercar expectations. The sheer magnitude of this power output is almost overwhelming, prompting contemplation on where this relentless escalation of performance will eventually culminate – and more importantly, where such exhilarating capability can be fully unleashed.
This marks a significant moment: the 296 GTB is the first V6-powered Ferrari road car to bear the iconic Prancing Horse emblem (the exquisite 246 GT Dino, while V6-powered, never officially wore the badge in its era). It also pioneers Ferrari’s ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger arrangement, a design that centralizes the turbos within the engine’s V-angle for enhanced efficiency and responsiveness. Furthermore, it’s a plug-in hybrid, boasting an electric-only range of approximately 15 miles, offering a glimpse into sustainable high-performance driving. The compact V6 is nestled low within a newly developed aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase shortened by 50 mm compared to its V8 predecessors. This packaging adjustment also places the occupants slightly further forward, contributing to an altered center of gravity and driving dynamic.
The electric motor itself contributes an impressive 165 bhp and 232 lb-ft of torque, while the V6 alone produces a staggering 654 bhp and 546 lb-ft. The combined output is the headline-grabbing 819 bhp. Ferrari strategically opts not to publish a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the engine and electric motor. However, it’s safe to assume this combined torque is nothing short of colossal, contributing to the V6 hybrid supercar performance that the 296 GTB is renowned for. The V6 unit itself offers a weight saving of approximately 30 kg over Ferrari’s V8 engines, and it’s mated to an ultra-slick eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The compact battery pack, a long, slender structure, is cleverly housed behind the seats, further contributing to the car’s balanced weight distribution.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems. For the 296 GTB, Ferrari has introduced its innovative six-axis sensor, dubbed the 6w-CDS (six-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This advanced system meticulously measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes. Replacing traditional yaw sensors, and working in concert with a sensor on the steering rack, the 6w-CDS provides the car with an intimate understanding of both driver input and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patch. This data allows other vital systems, such as Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, to work in harmony, maximizing cornering speeds while preserving unwavering stability and driver confidence. It also enables a new system called ABS-evo, which, in RACE mode and above, leverages the 296’s brake-by-wire system to not only shorten braking distances but also enhance braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers into corners. This level of integrated control is crucial for managing the immense power of new Ferrari models.
In a significant development, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics technology not to minimize drag, as has been traditional, but to actively generate downforce. The company claims a substantial 360 kg of downforce at 155 mph, with a remarkable 100 kg of that attributed to the deployable rear wing. This active aero is a critical component in the performance tuning of hybrid supercars.
Cooling is meticulously managed. Two radiators in the front fascia handle engine and gearbox heat, complemented by two additional condensers dedicated to battery cooling. Hot air is strategically expelled from the underbody to avoid interfering with the airflow directed to the intercoolers situated along the flanks. The subtle apertures below the headlamps are dedicated to brake cooling, while a roofline-integrated rear wing aids in creating a ‘virtual’ rear screen, channeling air to the rear of the car as if guided by a sculpted surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated from beneath the car. Significant attention has been paid not only to air channelling and the rear diffuser but also to the underbody’s ground clearance, optimizing the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces. This focus on aerodynamic refinement is a hallmark of cutting-edge supercar technology.
The 296 GTBs sampled on the launch circuit were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance upgrade replaces the standard dampers with specialized Multimatic units, derived from GT racing applications. It also incorporates additional carbon fiber aerodynamic elements on the front, increasing front downforce by an additional 20 kg. The cabin and exterior benefit from further carbon fiber applications, contributing to a total weight saving of 12 kg. This can be extended to 15 kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. A further enticing option for Assetto Fiorano-equipped cars is the fitment of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, a step up from the standard Pilot Sport 4S. The Fiorano variant can also be personalized with an exterior graphics package, paying homage to the iconic 250LM of the 1960s. These bespoke options highlight the customization options for high-performance cars.
Having experienced the 296 GTB extensively, its aesthetic is undeniably captivating. It presents a unique and striking design, echoing the spirit of the 250LM even without the more overt graphic treatments. This blend of classic inspiration and futuristic execution is a key differentiator in the luxury sports car market.
Performance and Acceleration:
Initiating motion is as simple as a double press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss and selecting first gear. The 296 defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing for silent, electric-only acceleration unless prompted otherwise via the haptic driver mode selectors on the left side of the steering wheel. Provided throttle inputs remain moderate, the car will continue on pure electric power, contingent on sufficient battery charge.
Drivers can also intentionally select ‘EV mode,’ overriding powertrain demands, or opt for the more aggressive Performance and Qualifying modes. In these settings, both the internal combustion engine and the electric motor work in unison. Performance mode aims to maintain battery charge while delivering strong power, whereas Qualifying mode prioritizes absolute maximum performance, disregarding the battery’s state of charge. This dynamic control is central to the driving experience of electric hybrid supercars.
The sensation of gliding silently through urban environments is an unexpected delight. The adaptive damping is remarkably sophisticated, rendering the cabin a surprisingly comfortable space for covering significant distances. Even the luggage space in the ‘frunk’ is surprisingly practical, a welcome contrast to the SF90. However, the true question on everyone’s mind is the visceral experience when both the engine and electric motor are unleashed in their full glory.
The potency of the hybrid powertrain is immediately evident. Prod the throttle at low revs in a high gear, and the 296 surges forward with an instantaneous response, momentarily making one question the very necessity of gear changes, such is its immediate thrust. Yet, with eight gears at its disposal and an engine that happily revs to 8500 rpm, the full unleashing of the 296’s capabilities is nothing short of astonishing.
The acceleration figures – a sprint from 0-62 mph in a scant 2.9 seconds and a top speed exceeding 205 mph – translate into a relentless, exhilarating rate of acceleration that borders on overwhelming, yet is paradoxically addictive. This is a car of formidable speed. The soundtrack is equally compelling, a melodious V6 rasp complemented by a rich tapestry of turbocharger effects. This sonic landscape is a critical element of the supercar sound experience.
Ride and Handling:
What truly sets the 296 GTB apart is the remarkable responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s stated aim of making this car “fun to drive” is not an exaggeration. It feels incredibly agile without ever tipping into nervousness. The steering, as expected from Ferrari, is light and exceptionally quick, but it also delivers a commendable level of feedback. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car remains delightfully throttle-adjustable, eliciting an irrepressible grin.
Despite its dry weight of 1470 kg, the 296 feels significantly lighter. There’s an inherent lack of inertia throughout the entire car that encourages the driver to work with it, employing subtle inputs and reveling in its precision. Engaging ‘CT Off’ mode allows for audacious maneuvers, underpinned by the reassurance of an intelligent electronic guardian. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296’s inherent balance allows it to be coaxed into oversteer with a delicacy one wouldn’t expect from a car producing 819 bhp. This exemplifies advanced vehicle dynamics in hybrid sports cars.
On the track, the 296 GTB has the uncanny ability to shrink even the longest straights. More apparent, however, is its precision as a sharp instrument. The power is readily available to break rear-wheel traction at numerous points around the lap. Yet, the 296 is also exquisitely sensitive to braking and steering inputs, rewarding precise control with amplified driver engagement. The turn-in accuracy and response dramatically shorten the corner entry phase. Rather than easing into turns and building load, the 296 settles immediately, its Multimatic dampers and hyper-quick steering perfectly complementing the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers transitioning from more conventional sports cars, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 are phenomenal, offering a deeply rewarding experience lap after lap. This track-focused supercar performance is a testament to Ferrari’s engineering prowess.
Interior:
The cabin architecture will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90. The 296 inherits heavily from its flagship sibling, particularly regarding its fully digital interface and the accompanying haptic switchgear. These controls, liberally distributed across the steering wheel and the traditional Ferrari pods flanking it, represent a significant departure.
While undeniably complex, the sheer volume of information to be conveyed necessitates this approach. The primary challenge lies in the occasional need for a second press for simple operations, or uncertainty about whether an input has been successfully registered. Nevertheless, the cabin exudes a special, driver-focused ambiance, a key aspect of the luxury car interior design.
evo Car of the Year 2022 Verdict:
“Now it gets serious,” declared evo’s road testers. “When the scores were tallied, there wasn’t even the width of a road tester’s cigarette paper between the Artura and the 296 GTB. The judges were perfectly split too: three of us narrowly preferred the Ferrari to the McLaren; three scored the Macca ahead by a whisker.”
The three judges who placed the 296 ahead – myself, Meaden, and Bovingdon – were effusive. “What a spectacular car,” enthused Jethro. “Beautiful to look at, outrageously fast, amazingly exploitable, and so technically clever. Its V6 shows McLaren how to downsize but turn up the drama, and it matches the Artura in terms of sheer control but feels a bit more playful and indulgent.”
“The first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” was Dickie’s verdict, a sentiment echoed by many. “The hybrid system works very well, and doesn’t change the driving experience as much as I’d feared. Probably because we’ve already become accustomed to the torquey characteristics of the turbocharged V8 in the 488 and F8. The 296 is stonkingly quick, but doesn’t rely solely on speed thanks to the character of the V6, which has a soundtrack that’s always sweet and changes with throttle opening.”
“The Ferrari’s hybridisation was widely praised for its seamless integration, although on the final night we were left stranded after the battery ran flat with no apparent means of bringing the car back to life. To be fair, Ferrari had warned us of the possibility and detailed the various measures we should take to ensure it didn’t happen. But it’s not inconceivable that an owner could find themselves similarly stuck, and as Gallagher said, ‘that the company who introduced individual rear-wheel steering to its cars can’t engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent this happening is a huge oversight’. Fortunately for the 296, that happened after we’d scored all the cars.”
“Ferrari’s signature super-quick steering divided opinion, the brake feel didn’t match the very best of the group, and the tech interface was widely criticised for being overly complex, but otherwise the 296 was irresistibly seductive. ‘I thought I wouldn’t like the Fezza all that much – too complex, rather gratuitous points of difference,’ said Vivian, ‘but I ended up somewhat bewitched: the spooky way it changes direction; its amazing damping and looney-tunes levels of grip; the linearity of seemingly never-ending power…'”
As Peter Tomalin, from evo’s ECoty 2022, eloquently summarized, “It’s a real return to form for Ferrari, after the SF90 left us cold last year. The 296 is way more successful because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels much more natural, and far less intrusive. Ferrari has taken so much from the SF90, learnt from that car, and distilled it into a series production model that’s one of its very best.”
Price and Rivals:
When a vehicle is so densely packed with cutting-edge technology, there’s always the inherent risk that it might become less than the sum of its parts. This was a concern some felt with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, could feel somewhat unapproachable in its driving characteristics.
However, the 296 GTB represents a distinct evolution. As demonstrated during the 2022 evo Car of the Year competition, where it secured a joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura, the 296 feels far more organic. Its potent blend of power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect balance, redefining the capabilities of a supercar in the approximately $250,000 price bracket. A “Versione Speciale” variant, essentially a codename for a more potent iteration, is anticipated soon, promising even greater power, performance, and intensity. The hope is that the standard 296’s remarkably natural feel will be retained. This focus on supercar value and evolution is keenly watched by enthusiasts.
It is precisely this aspect of the 296 GTB’s character that we hope Lamborghini has scrutinized most intensely when honing its hybrid Temerario supercar. A figure exceeding 900 bhp is an almost obscene amount of power for a series production supercar, and it could easily overwhelm the chassis if not meticulously resolved. If Lamborghini has truly mastered this challenge – and their exemplary execution of the Revuelto provides ample reason for optimism – then we are poised for an epic twin test, featuring a combined output of a staggering 1700 bhp! This represents the apex of V12 hybrid supercar performance versus V6 hybrid.
Alternatively, we could elevate the stakes to a 2400 bhp triple threat, incorporating the McLaren 750S. This model, by comparison, could now be described as the ‘minnow’ of the class, boasting a mere 740 bhp. However, it counters with a relatively petite kerb weight of 1389 kg, ensuring a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s inherent rawness, ergonomic perfection, crisp steering, and agile chassis demonstrably distinguish it against the comparatively detached Ferrari. This competitive landscape highlights the varied approaches to performance car comparisons.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbocharged V6, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819 bhp @ 8000 rpm
Combined Torque: 546 lb-ft @ 6250 rpm
Weight: 1470 kg (dry) (566 bhp/ton)
0-62 mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205 mph
Price: Starting from $320,000 USD (approx.)
The Ferrari 296 GTB is more than just a car; it’s a statement of intent, a bold stride into the electrified future of supercars. Its blend of blistering performance, sophisticated technology, and engaging dynamics sets a new benchmark. For those seeking the pinnacle of automotive innovation and an unparalleled driving experience, the 296 GTB beckons. Discover how this masterpiece of Italian engineering can elevate your driving passion – explore financing options or schedule a personal consultation today to experience the future of Ferrari firsthand.