ABC Full [12-31-2025] General Hospital: DID THEY KILL HIM? Carly & Valentin’s NASTY Plan!
The Ferrari 296 GTB: A New Era of Hybrid Supercar Prowess and a Glimpse into Electrified Automotive Excellence
For a decade, I’ve navigated the thrilling, often exhilarating, and consistently evolving landscape of high-performance automobiles. My journey has taken me from the roaring, naturally aspirated engines of yesteryear to the complex, electrified powertrains defining today’s supercars. It’s within this context that Ferrari’s 296 GTB emerges not just as a remarkable vehicle, but as a profound statement about the future of automotive engineering. Even with the advent of formidable hybrid rivals, the 296 GTB continues to captivate with its audacious blend of V6 power, electrifying augmentation, and uncompromised Ferrari DNA. This isn’t just a review; it’s an analysis of a paradigm shift, a deep dive into the technology and driving experience that sets a new benchmark, particularly as competitors like the Lamborghini Temerario review enter the arena.
The automotive world witnessed a seismic shift with the 2022 arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB. Departing from the celebrated, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8, Maranello opted for a revolutionary twin-turbocharged V6 engine, artfully integrated with electric propulsion. This bold move positioned the 296 GTB at the forefront of a supercar segment still in the nascent stages of widespread hybrid adoption. While its initial launch was met with traditional benchmarks like the naturally aspirated V10 Lamborghini Huracán – a car celebrated for its visceral V10 charisma and raw auditory appeal – and the potent twin-turbo V8 McLaren 720S, the landscape has rapidly transformed. The forthcoming Lamborghini Temerario horsepower and performance figures, boasting a staggering 10,000rpm redline and 903bhp from its V8 hybrid powertrain, directly challenge Ferrari’s innovative V6 Berlinetta, which produces a formidable 819bhp. This competitive fire ignites a crucial discussion about the evolution of hybrid supercar performance and what truly defines the ultimate driving machine in the 21st century.
The 296 GTB arrives packing genuine firepower. Its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6, coupled with an electric motor driving only the rear wheels (a divergence from the SF90’s all-wheel-drive electric setup), propels the 819bhp machine into uncharted territory for supercar conventions. This is more than just an incremental upgrade; it represents a fundamental reimagining of Ferrari’s mid-engined philosophy. The sheer audacity of its power output raises fascinating questions: where will this escalation of performance ultimately lead, and more importantly, in what real-world scenarios can such immense capability be fully unleashed? While these are existential questions for the enthusiast, the immediate reality of the 296 GTB’s engineering is undeniable.
Historically, the 296 GTB marks a significant milestone as the first V6-powered Ferrari road car to proudly bear the Prancing Horse emblem – a distinction that sets it apart from the beloved, though not badged, 246 GT Dino of yesteryear. Furthermore, it pioneers Ferrari’s ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger configuration, a testament to its commitment to cutting-edge engine design. As a plug-in hybrid, it offers an impressive all-electric range of approximately 15 miles, providing a glimpse into the practicalities of electrified supercar ownership. The compact V6, positioned low within a novel aluminum chassis, features a wheelbase shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, with occupants seated slightly further forward, contributing to a more focused and engaging driving position.
The electric motor itself contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque. On its own, the V6 churns out an astonishing 654bhp and 546lb ft. While Ferrari strategically refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, presumably due to the complex interplay between the V6 and electric motor, it’s safe to infer that the overall torque output is nothing short of prodigious. The V6 unit itself offers a weight saving of approximately 30kg over Ferrari’s V8 engines. This potent combination is managed by an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, and the battery pack, a sleek, elongated structure, is discreetly housed behind the seats, contributing to the car’s exceptional weight distribution.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems. For the 296 GTB, Ferrari has developed its groundbreaking six-axis sensor, dubbed the 6w-CDS (Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This advanced system measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes, effectively replacing traditional yaw sensors. When integrated with the steering rack sensor, it provides the car with an unprecedented understanding of the driver’s intentions and the vehicle’s available grip at the tire contact patch. This allows for unparalleled fine-tuning of systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, maximizing cornering speeds while preserving unwavering stability. A key innovation enabled by this technology is the new ABS-evo system, introduced in RACE mode and above. Working in conjunction with the 296’s brake-by-wire setup, it not only shortens braking distances but also enhances braking performance during aggressive trail-braking maneuvers into corners.
In a departure from convention, Ferrari is now leveraging its active aerodynamics not for drag reduction, but for increased downforce. The manufacturer quotes a remarkable 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with approximately 100kg of this generated by a deployable rear wing. The thermal management is equally impressive, featuring two radiators in the front for engine and gearbox cooling, alongside two condensers dedicated to battery temperature regulation. Hot air is expelled from the underbody, ensuring it doesn’t impede the flow of cooling air to the intercoolers along the flanks. The subtle apertures below the headlamps are dedicated to cooling the brakes, while the integrated rear roofline wing creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, expertly channeling airflow to the rear of the car as if guided by a physical surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is meticulously engineered to originate from beneath the car. Particular attention has been paid to the underbody’s airflow, the rear diffuser’s efficiency, and critically, the precise ride height to maximize the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
Our initial experiences with the 296 GTB on the circuit were exclusively with the Assetto Fiorano package fitted. This performance-oriented upgrade replaces the standard dampers with advanced Multimatic units, derived from Ferrari’s GT racing endeavors, and incorporates additional carbon fiber aerodynamic elements at the front, boosting front downforce by a further 20kg. The pursuit of weight reduction extends to the cabin, with more carbon fiber utilized for components like door panels, and the exterior, contributing to an overall saving of 12kg. This figure increases to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. Further enhancing track capability, the Assetto Fiorano package offers Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires as an upgrade from the standard Pilot Sport 4S. Visually, Assetto Fiorano cars can be further personalized with an exterior graphics package, subtly echoing the iconic livery of the 1960s 250LM.
Having had the opportunity to thoroughly evaluate the 296 GTB in person, its aesthetic appeal is undeniable. It possesses a unique character, an avant-garde design that clearly draws inspiration from the legendary 250LM, even without the more polarizing graphics package. Its visual presence is striking and utterly distinctive.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: A Symphony of Power and Precision
Initiating the driving experience is as simple as a double-press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss, followed by selecting first gear. The 296 GTB defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing for initial acceleration using electric power alone, unless overridden by the driver via the intuitive haptic controls located on the steering wheel’s boss. Maintaining a judicious throttle input will sustain all-electric propulsion, provided the battery retains sufficient charge. The option to deliberately engage full EV mode is available, irrespective of powertrain demands. Beyond this, the Performance and Qualifying modes offer escalating levels of intensity. In Performance mode, both the internal combustion engine and electric motor work in concert, with a focus on maintaining battery charge. Qualifying mode, however, prioritizes unadulterated maximum performance, with no regard for the battery’s state of depletion.
The serene experience of gliding through urban environments on electric power is an unexpected delight. The damping sophistication ensures a remarkably comfortable ride, making it an ideal companion for long journeys. The ‘frunk’ up front offers a surprisingly practical luggage compartment, a welcome improvement over the SF90. However, the true allure for any driving enthusiast lies in experiencing the full synergy of both the V6 engine and electric motor unleashed.
Planting the throttle from low revs in a higher gear elicits an immediate, almost startling surge forward, devoid of any perceptible lag. This potent delivery momentarily prompts contemplation on the very necessity of gear changes, such is its relentless force. Yet, with eight gears at its disposal and an engine that happily revs to 8500rpm, the full unleashing of the 296’s capabilities is an absolutely breathtaking spectacle. The acceleration figures – a blistering 0-62mph in just 2.9 seconds and a top speed exceeding 205mph – translate into a driving experience characterized by intense G-forces, a thrilling blend of nervous laughter and sheer exhilaration, yet undeniably addictive. The auditory experience is equally compelling, with a harmonious V6 rasp augmented by captivating turbocharger sound effects.
What truly distinguishes the 296 GTB is the extraordinary responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s assertion that the car was engineered for pure driving enjoyment is not mere marketing hyperbole; it’s a tangible reality. The handling is exceptionally agile without becoming overly nervous. The steering, a Ferrari hallmark, is light and incredibly fast, yet it conveys a remarkable level of road feel and detail. While the grip levels are predictably immense, the car’s true brilliance lies in its throttle adjustability, a characteristic that consistently elicits a broad grin.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter, exuding a remarkable lack of inertia that encourages an intimate connection with the driver. Small, precise inputs translate into immediate and accurate responses, fostering a sense of symbiosis. Even with electronic aids like CT Off engaged, there’s a reassuring underlying safety net provided by Ferrari’s advanced electronic brain. However, for those who choose to deactivate all electronic interventions, the 296’s inherent balance allows for a degree of controlled oversteer that one would scarcely believe possible in a car with 819bhp.
On the racetrack, the 296 GTB possesses the remarkable ability to compress even the longest straights. Its sharp, precise nature becomes even more apparent. While the power is readily available to break rear-end traction at numerous points around the lap, the car’s sensitivity to braking and steering inputs rewards precision with amplified driver engagement. The turn-in accuracy and response are phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. Instead of gradually loading the chassis into turns, the 296 adopts its line instantaneously, aided by the sophisticated Multimatic dampers and the hyper-quick steering, which works in perfect harmony with the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more conventional sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are truly phenomenal and a source of enduring joy, lap after exhilarating lap.
Interior Design and Technology: A Digital Realm with Nuances
The cabin architecture will feel immediately familiar to anyone who has experienced the Ferrari SF90. The 296 GTB inherits much of its interior layout from its flagship sibling. The fully digital interface, coupled with its accompanying haptic switchgear, presents a unique challenge. These controls are liberally distributed across the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari stalk pods flanking it. While the system is undeniably complex, it’s also tasked with conveying a vast amount of information. The primary critique revolves around the occasional need for a second press for simple operations that may not register on the first attempt, and a lack of definitive tactile feedback confirming activation. Nevertheless, the cabin undeniably exudes a special, purposeful ambiance.
Expert Verdict: A Return to Form and the Future of Supercar Dynamics
In the highly competitive arena of supercar awards, the 296 GTB faced stiff competition. In the highly regarded evo Car of the Year 2022, the Ferrari found itself in a near dead heat with the McLaren Artura, a testament to the relentless innovation within the segment. Judges were famously split, with three favoring the Ferrari and three narrowly preferring the McLaren.
The advocates for the 296 GTB, including myself, Jethro, and Bovingdon, lauded its spectacular nature. Jethro described it as “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.” Dickie’s verdict, echoed by many, hailed it as “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” He further elaborated, “The hybrid system works very well, and doesn’t change the driving experience as much as I’d feared. Probably because we’ve already got used 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 seamless integration of the Ferrari’s hybrid system garnered widespread praise. However, a notable incident during the evaluation involved the car being stranded after the battery depleted, with no readily apparent means of recovery. While Ferrari had provided prior warnings and guidance on preventing such occurrences, it highlighted a potential vulnerability for owners. As one judge astutely noted, “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, this occurred after the scoring was finalized.
Despite these critiques, the 296 GTB’s allure was undeniable. Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering, while dividing opinions, contributed to its razor-sharp agility. Brake feel, while competent, didn’t quite reach the zenith of the class for some testers. The much-discussed technological interface, while complex, ultimately yielded to the car’s seductive qualities. Vivian admitted, “I thought I wouldn’t like the Fezza all that much – too complex, rather gratuitous points of difference – 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…”
The 296 GTB represented a significant return to form for Ferrari, particularly in contrast to the SF90’s more detached demeanor. As Peter Tomalin summarized for ecoty 2022, “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.” He concluded that Ferrari had “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.”
Pricing, Rivals, and the Evolving Supercar Landscape
When a vehicle is laden with such advanced technology, there’s always a risk it might become less than the sum of its parts. This was a concern we encountered with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, sometimes felt unnerving due to its challenging driving characteristics.
The 296 GTB, however, charts a different course. As evidenced by its strong performance in evo Car of the Year 2022, achieving joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura, it exhibits a far more organic and cohesive driving experience. Its potent blend of exhilarating power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect balance, redefining expectations for a supercar priced in the £250,000 bracket. Whispers of a more extreme Versione Speciale variant, promising even greater power and intensity, are already circulating, with the crucial hope that the standard 296’s natural feel will be preserved.
It is this very aspect of the 296 GTB’s character that we hope Lamborghini has meticulously addressed in the development of its hybrid Temerario. Over 900bhp in a series production supercar is an almost obscene amount of power, and it has the potential to overwhelm the chassis if not perfectly resolved. If Lamborghini has indeed achieved such a feat – and the exceptional nature of the Revuelto offers ample reason for optimism – then we are poised for an epic twin test of hybrid hypercars.
Alternatively, the equation could expand to a staggering 2400bhp triple threat with the inclusion of the McLaren 750S. Absurdly, the McLaren, with its “mere” 740bhp, now appears the minnow of this exalted class. However, its comparatively svelte 1389kg kerb weight ensures a fiercely competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s inherent rawness, ergonomic perfection, crisp steering, and chassis finesse offer a distinct contrast to the admittedly more remote feel of the Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbocharged V6, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819bhp @ 8000rpm
Combined Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry) (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Price: £250,000+
The Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a compelling testament to the thrilling evolution of the supercar. It masterfully blends electrifying innovation with the soul-stirring performance and emotional engagement that define the marque. As the automotive landscape continues its rapid transformation, the 296 GTB offers a profound insight into the future of high-performance driving.
If you’re ready to explore the pinnacle of hybrid supercar technology or are seeking an unparalleled driving experience that redefines automotive excellence, we invite you to connect with our team of experts today. Let us guide you through the remarkable world of Ferrari and help you take the next step in your automotive journey.
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The Ferrari 296 GTB: A New Era of Hybrid Supercar Prowess and a Glimpse into Electrified Automotive Excellence
For a decade, I’ve navigated the thrilling, often exhilarating, and consistently evolving landscape of high-performance automobiles. My journey has taken me from the roaring, naturally aspirated engines of yesteryear to the complex, electrified powertrains defining today’s supercars. It’s within this context that Ferrari’s 296 GTB emerges not just as a remarkable vehicle, but as a profound statement about the future of automotive engineering. Even with the advent of formidable hybrid rivals, the 296 GTB continues to captivate with its audacious blend of V6 power, electrifying augmentation, and uncompromised Ferrari DNA. This isn’t just a review; it’s an analysis of a paradigm shift, a deep dive into the technology and driving experience that sets a new benchmark, particularly as competitors like the Lamborghini Temerario review enter the arena.
The automotive world witnessed a seismic shift with the 2022 arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB. Departing from the celebrated, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8, Maranello opted for a revolutionary twin-turbocharged V6 engine, artfully integrated with electric propulsion. This bold move positioned the 296 GTB at the forefront of a supercar segment still in the nascent stages of widespread hybrid adoption. While its initial launch was met with traditional benchmarks like the naturally aspirated V10 Lamborghini Huracán – a car celebrated for its visceral V10 charisma and raw auditory appeal – and the potent twin-turbo V8 McLaren 720S, the landscape has rapidly transformed. The forthcoming Lamborghini Temerario horsepower and performance figures, boasting a staggering 10,000rpm redline and 903bhp from its V8 hybrid powertrain, directly challenge Ferrari’s innovative V6 Berlinetta, which produces a formidable 819bhp. This competitive fire ignites a crucial discussion about the evolution of hybrid supercar performance and what truly defines the ultimate driving machine in the 21st century.
The 296 GTB arrives packing genuine firepower. Its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6, coupled with an electric motor driving only the rear wheels (a divergence from the SF90’s all-wheel-drive electric setup), propels the 819bhp machine into uncharted territory for supercar conventions. This is more than just an incremental upgrade; it represents a fundamental reimagining of Ferrari’s mid-engined philosophy. The sheer audacity of its power output raises fascinating questions: where will this escalation of performance ultimately lead, and more importantly, in what real-world scenarios can such immense capability be fully unleashed? While these are existential questions for the enthusiast, the immediate reality of the 296 GTB’s engineering is undeniable.
Historically, the 296 GTB marks a significant milestone as the first V6-powered Ferrari road car to proudly bear the Prancing Horse emblem – a distinction that sets it apart from the beloved, though not badged, 246 GT Dino of yesteryear. Furthermore, it pioneers Ferrari’s ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger configuration, a testament to its commitment to cutting-edge engine design. As a plug-in hybrid, it offers an impressive all-electric range of approximately 15 miles, providing a glimpse into the practicalities of electrified supercar ownership. The compact V6, positioned low within a novel aluminum chassis, features a wheelbase shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, with occupants seated slightly further forward, contributing to a more focused and engaging driving position.
The electric motor itself contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque. On its own, the V6 churns out an astonishing 654bhp and 546lb ft. While Ferrari strategically refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, presumably due to the complex interplay between the V6 and electric motor, it’s safe to infer that the overall torque output is nothing short of prodigious. The V6 unit itself offers a weight saving of approximately 30kg over Ferrari’s V8 engines. This potent combination is managed by an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, and the battery pack, a sleek, elongated structure, is discreetly housed behind the seats, contributing to the car’s exceptional weight distribution.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems. For the 296 GTB, Ferrari has developed its groundbreaking six-axis sensor, dubbed the 6w-CDS (Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This advanced system measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes, effectively replacing traditional yaw sensors. When integrated with the steering rack sensor, it provides the car with an unprecedented understanding of the driver’s intentions and the vehicle’s available grip at the tire contact patch. This allows for unparalleled fine-tuning of systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, maximizing cornering speeds while preserving unwavering stability. A key innovation enabled by this technology is the new ABS-evo system, introduced in RACE mode and above. Working in conjunction with the 296’s brake-by-wire setup, it not only shortens braking distances but also enhances braking performance during aggressive trail-braking maneuvers into corners.
In a departure from convention, Ferrari is now leveraging its active aerodynamics not for drag reduction, but for increased downforce. The manufacturer quotes a remarkable 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with approximately 100kg of this generated by a deployable rear wing. The thermal management is equally impressive, featuring two radiators in the front for engine and gearbox cooling, alongside two condensers dedicated to battery temperature regulation. Hot air is expelled from the underbody, ensuring it doesn’t impede the flow of cooling air to the intercoolers along the flanks. The subtle apertures below the headlamps are dedicated to cooling the brakes, while the integrated rear roofline wing creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, expertly channeling airflow to the rear of the car as if guided by a physical surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is meticulously engineered to originate from beneath the car. Particular attention has been paid to the underbody’s airflow, the rear diffuser’s efficiency, and critically, the precise ride height to maximize the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
Our initial experiences with the 296 GTB on the circuit were exclusively with the Assetto Fiorano package fitted. This performance-oriented upgrade replaces the standard dampers with advanced Multimatic units, derived from Ferrari’s GT racing endeavors, and incorporates additional carbon fiber aerodynamic elements at the front, boosting front downforce by a further 20kg. The pursuit of weight reduction extends to the cabin, with more carbon fiber utilized for components like door panels, and the exterior, contributing to an overall saving of 12kg. This figure increases to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. Further enhancing track capability, the Assetto Fiorano package offers Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires as an upgrade from the standard Pilot Sport 4S. Visually, Assetto Fiorano cars can be further personalized with an exterior graphics package, subtly echoing the iconic livery of the 1960s 250LM.
Having had the opportunity to thoroughly evaluate the 296 GTB in person, its aesthetic appeal is undeniable. It possesses a unique character, an avant-garde design that clearly draws inspiration from the legendary 250LM, even without the more polarizing graphics package. Its visual presence is striking and utterly distinctive.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: A Symphony of Power and Precision
Initiating the driving experience is as simple as a double-press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss, followed by selecting first gear. The 296 GTB defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing for initial acceleration using electric power alone, unless overridden by the driver via the intuitive haptic controls located on the steering wheel’s boss. Maintaining a judicious throttle input will sustain all-electric propulsion, provided the battery retains sufficient charge. The option to deliberately engage full EV mode is available, irrespective of powertrain demands. Beyond this, the Performance and Qualifying modes offer escalating levels of intensity. In Performance mode, both the internal combustion engine and electric motor work in concert, with a focus on maintaining battery charge. Qualifying mode, however, prioritizes unadulterated maximum performance, with no regard for the battery’s state of depletion.
The serene experience of gliding through urban environments on electric power is an unexpected delight. The damping sophistication ensures a remarkably comfortable ride, making it an ideal companion for long journeys. The ‘frunk’ up front offers a surprisingly practical luggage compartment, a welcome improvement over the SF90. However, the true allure for any driving enthusiast lies in experiencing the full synergy of both the V6 engine and electric motor unleashed.
Planting the throttle from low revs in a higher gear elicits an immediate, almost startling surge forward, devoid of any perceptible lag. This potent delivery momentarily prompts contemplation on the very necessity of gear changes, such is its relentless force. Yet, with eight gears at its disposal and an engine that happily revs to 8500rpm, the full unleashing of the 296’s capabilities is an absolutely breathtaking spectacle. The acceleration figures – a blistering 0-62mph in just 2.9 seconds and a top speed exceeding 205mph – translate into a driving experience characterized by intense G-forces, a thrilling blend of nervous laughter and sheer exhilaration, yet undeniably addictive. The auditory experience is equally compelling, with a harmonious V6 rasp augmented by captivating turbocharger sound effects.
What truly distinguishes the 296 GTB is the extraordinary responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s assertion that the car was engineered for pure driving enjoyment is not mere marketing hyperbole; it’s a tangible reality. The handling is exceptionally agile without becoming overly nervous. The steering, a Ferrari hallmark, is light and incredibly fast, yet it conveys a remarkable level of road feel and detail. While the grip levels are predictably immense, the car’s true brilliance lies in its throttle adjustability, a characteristic that consistently elicits a broad grin.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter, exuding a remarkable lack of inertia that encourages an intimate connection with the driver. Small, precise inputs translate into immediate and accurate responses, fostering a sense of symbiosis. Even with electronic aids like CT Off engaged, there’s a reassuring underlying safety net provided by Ferrari’s advanced electronic brain. However, for those who choose to deactivate all electronic interventions, the 296’s inherent balance allows for a degree of controlled oversteer that one would scarcely believe possible in a car with 819bhp.
On the racetrack, the 296 GTB possesses the remarkable ability to compress even the longest straights. Its sharp, precise nature becomes even more apparent. While the power is readily available to break rear-end traction at numerous points around the lap, the car’s sensitivity to braking and steering inputs rewards precision with amplified driver engagement. The turn-in accuracy and response are phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. Instead of gradually loading the chassis into turns, the 296 adopts its line instantaneously, aided by the sophisticated Multimatic dampers and the hyper-quick steering, which works in perfect harmony with the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more conventional sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are truly phenomenal and a source of enduring joy, lap after exhilarating lap.
Interior Design and Technology: A Digital Realm with Nuances
The cabin architecture will feel immediately familiar to anyone who has experienced the Ferrari SF90. The 296 GTB inherits much of its interior layout from its flagship sibling. The fully digital interface, coupled with its accompanying haptic switchgear, presents a unique challenge. These controls are liberally distributed across the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari stalk pods flanking it. While the system is undeniably complex, it’s also tasked with conveying a vast amount of information. The primary critique revolves around the occasional need for a second press for simple operations that may not register on the first attempt, and a lack of definitive tactile feedback confirming activation. Nevertheless, the cabin undeniably exudes a special, purposeful ambiance.
Expert Verdict: A Return to Form and the Future of Supercar Dynamics
In the highly competitive arena of supercar awards, the 296 GTB faced stiff competition. In the highly regarded evo Car of the Year 2022, the Ferrari found itself in a near dead heat with the McLaren Artura, a testament to the relentless innovation within the segment. Judges were famously split, with three favoring the Ferrari and three narrowly preferring the McLaren.
The advocates for the 296 GTB, including myself, Jethro, and Bovingdon, lauded its spectacular nature. Jethro described it as “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.” Dickie’s verdict, echoed by many, hailed it as “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” He further elaborated, “The hybrid system works very well, and doesn’t change the driving experience as much as I’d feared. Probably because we’ve already got used 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 seamless integration of the Ferrari’s hybrid system garnered widespread praise. However, a notable incident during the evaluation involved the car being stranded after the battery depleted, with no readily apparent means of recovery. While Ferrari had provided prior warnings and guidance on preventing such occurrences, it highlighted a potential vulnerability for owners. As one judge astutely noted, “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, this occurred after the scoring was finalized.
Despite these critiques, the 296 GTB’s allure was undeniable. Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering, while dividing opinions, contributed to its razor-sharp agility. Brake feel, while competent, didn’t quite reach the zenith of the class for some testers. The much-discussed technological interface, while complex, ultimately yielded to the car’s seductive qualities. Vivian admitted, “I thought I wouldn’t like the Fezza all that much – too complex, rather gratuitous points of difference – 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…”
The 296 GTB represented a significant return to form for Ferrari, particularly in contrast to the SF90’s more detached demeanor. As Peter Tomalin summarized for ecoty 2022, “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.” He concluded that Ferrari had “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.”
Pricing, Rivals, and the Evolving Supercar Landscape
When a vehicle is laden with such advanced technology, there’s always a risk it might become less than the sum of its parts. This was a concern we encountered with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, sometimes felt unnerving due to its challenging driving characteristics.
The 296 GTB, however, charts a different course. As evidenced by its strong performance in evo Car of the Year 2022, achieving joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura, it exhibits a far more organic and cohesive driving experience. Its potent blend of exhilarating power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect balance, redefining expectations for a supercar priced in the £250,000 bracket. Whispers of a more extreme Versione Speciale variant, promising even greater power and intensity, are already circulating, with the crucial hope that the standard 296’s natural feel will be preserved.
It is this very aspect of the 296 GTB’s character that we hope Lamborghini has meticulously addressed in the development of its hybrid Temerario. Over 900bhp in a series production supercar is an almost obscene amount of power, and it has the potential to overwhelm the chassis if not perfectly resolved. If Lamborghini has indeed achieved such a feat – and the exceptional nature of the Revuelto offers ample reason for optimism – then we are poised for an epic twin test of hybrid hypercars.
Alternatively, the equation could expand to a staggering 2400bhp triple threat with the inclusion of the McLaren 750S. Absurdly, the McLaren, with its “mere” 740bhp, now appears the minnow of this exalted class. However, its comparatively svelte 1389kg kerb weight ensures a fiercely competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s inherent rawness, ergonomic perfection, crisp steering, and chassis finesse offer a distinct contrast to the admittedly more remote feel of the Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbocharged V6, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819bhp @ 8000rpm
Combined Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry) (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Price: £250,000+
The Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a compelling testament to the thrilling evolution of the supercar. It masterfully blends electrifying innovation with the soul-stirring performance and emotional engagement that define the marque. As the automotive landscape continues its rapid transformation, the 296 GTB offers a profound insight into the future of high-performance driving.
If you’re ready to explore the pinnacle of hybrid supercar technology or are seeking an unparalleled driving experience that redefines automotive excellence, we invite you to connect with our team of experts today. Let us guide you through the remarkable world of Ferrari and help you take the next step in your automotive journey.