BIG Sad Update!! “Carly’s World Collapses After Jack’s Shocking Death!”
The Ferrari 296 GTB: Electrifying Evolution in the Hypercar Arena
For over a decade, the pinnacle of automotive engineering has been defined by a relentless pursuit of power and precision, a domain where names like Ferrari and Lamborghini have etched their legends. As an industry veteran with ten years immersed in the high-octane world of supercars, I’ve witnessed firsthand the dramatic shifts and breathtaking innovations that have reshaped this segment. Today, the Ferrari 296 GTB, a marvel of modern automotive technology, stands as a testament to this evolution, particularly as it prepares to face formidable new rivals in the next-generation Lamborghini Temerario. This isn’t just about horsepower figures; it’s about a profound redefinition of what a supercar can be, blending electrifying performance with an uncanny ability to connect the driver to the road.
The arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 marked a watershed moment. Forgoing the revered, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 that had defined Ferrari’s mid-engined supercars for years, Maranello boldly embraced a new twin-turbocharged V6, augmented by a potent electric motor. This was a calculated gamble, placing the 296 GTB at the vanguard of a segment that was only tentatively dipping its toes into the waters of hybrid propulsion. Its direct competitor at launch, the Lamborghini Huracán, offered the intoxicating charisma and raw auditory theatre of a naturally aspirated V10, while the McLaren 720S countered with its own formidable twin-turbo V8. The narrative is now shifting dramatically. The forthcoming Lamborghini Temerario, a projected 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid beast, is more than just a new model; it’s Lamborghini’s assertive challenge to Ferrari’s electrified Berlinetta, which boasts an impressive 819bhp.
The sheer output of the Ferrari 296 GTB is, frankly, astounding. Its all-new 120-degree, twin-turbo V6, paired with an electric motor driving only the rear wheels (a distinction from the SF90 Stradale), delivers a combined 819bhp. This configuration shattered established supercar conventions, pushing the boundaries of what was previously considered achievable in a road-legal vehicle. It’s easy to become fixated on such colossal power figures and wonder where this escalating performance will ultimately lead, and perhaps more importantly, where one might actually harness such velocity. But the true brilliance of the 296 GTB lies not just in its raw numbers, but in its groundbreaking engineering and driver-focused philosophy.
Historically, the V6 configuration was reserved for Ferrari’s more accessible models, with the iconic 246 GT Dino never officially bearing the Prancing Horse emblem. The 296 GTB changes that perception entirely, marking the first V6-powered Ferrari road car to carry the legendary badge. It pioneers a “hot-vee” turbocharger arrangement, where the turbos are nestled within the V of the engine, enabling a more compact design and quicker throttle response. Furthermore, it’s a plug-in hybrid, capable of traversing approximately 15 miles on electric power alone. This compact V6 is positioned low within a newly developed aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors. This packaging allows the occupants to sit slightly further forward, enhancing the sense of intimacy with the machine.
The electric motor contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 engine independently produces a remarkable 654bhp and 546lb ft. Ferrari wisely abstains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the intricate interplay between the electric motor and the internal combustion engine. However, it’s safe to assume the combined output is nothing short of colossal. Crucially, this V6-hybrid powertrain is approximately 30kg lighter than a comparable Ferrari V8, and it’s mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a sleek, oblong unit, is ingeniously housed behind the seats.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems, and the 296 GTB is no exception. The centerpiece is the six-axis sensor known as 6w-CDS, a revolutionary system capable of measuring acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes. This advanced sensor replaces traditional yaw sensors and, in conjunction with a steering rack sensor, grants the car an unprecedented understanding of both driver input and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patch. This information is then fed to systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, meticulously optimizing cornering speeds while steadfastly maintaining stability and driver confidence. It also facilitates the introduction of ABS-evo, a particularly apt name, in RACE mode and above. Leveraging the car’s brake-by-wire system, ABS-evo not only shortens braking distances but also refines braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers, allowing for more precise corner entries.
For the first time in its history, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics not to reduce drag, but to generate downforce. The company claims an impressive 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a significant portion, up to 100kg, being generated by a deployable rear wing. The car’s thermal management is equally ingenious. Two radiators in the front manage engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two condensers dedicated to cooling the battery. Hot air is expelled underneath the car to avoid disrupting the flow of cool air directed towards the intercoolers along the flanks. Small apertures beneath the headlamps are dedicated to brake cooling, while a roofline-integrated spoiler creates a “virtual” rear screen, guiding air to the rear of the vehicle as if it were following a sculpted surface. A significant portion of the 296’s downforce is generated from beneath the car, with particular attention paid to the diffuser and the underbody’s ground clearance to maximize the effectiveness of these aerodynamic surfaces.
The initial circuit demonstrations featured the Ferrari 296 GTB equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-oriented upgrade swaps the standard dampers for Multimatic units derived from GT racing and adds carbon fiber aerodynamic elements to the front splitter, increasing front downforce by an additional 20kg. The Assetto Fiorano package also incorporates more carbon fiber in the interior, such as the door panels, and on the exterior, contributing to a total weight saving of 12kg. This figure increases to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. Further enhancing track performance, Fiorano-spec cars can be fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, a significant step up from the standard Pilot Sport 4S. The Assetto Fiorano option even extends to an exterior graphics package, a nostalgic nod to the legendary 250LM of the 1960s. Visually, the 296 GTB is a masterpiece. Having spent considerable time with the car, I can attest to its stunning, almost otherworldly beauty. It possesses a unique aesthetic, even without the more flamboyant graphic treatments, echoing the timeless elegance of its predecessors.
Experiencing the Ferrari 296 GTB: Performance and Dynamics
Initiating movement in the Ferrari 296 GTB is a deliberate, yet remarkably simple, affair. A double press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss and selecting first gear are all that’s required. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, gliding away silently on electric power unless prompted otherwise by the intuitive haptic driver mode selectors on the steering wheel. Gentle throttle inputs will maintain electric propulsion, provided there’s sufficient charge in the battery. For those seeking pure electric tranquility, a dedicated EV mode can be engaged, irrespective of the powertrain’s demands. Beyond this, the Performance and Qualify modes unlock the full potential of the hybrid powertrain, working in tandem for maximum exhilaration. Performance mode judiciously manages battery charge, while Qualify mode unleashes unadulterated, no-holds-barred power, regardless of the battery’s state.
The experience of gliding silently through urban landscapes is a surprisingly serene pleasure. The damping system is so sophisticated that it transforms the cabin into a remarkably comfortable space for covering long distances. The “frunk” offers a reasonable amount of luggage capacity, a welcome improvement over the SF90 Stradale. But the true question on everyone’s mind, including mine, is: what does it feel like when both the V6 engine and the electric motor are unleashed?
The immediate surge of acceleration when planting the throttle from low revs in a high gear is nothing short of astonishing. The 296 GTB simply rockets forward, with virtually zero lag, prompting one to momentarily question the very necessity of gear changes, such is its potency. Yet, with eight gears to exploit and an engine that willingly spins to 8500rpm, the full unleashing of the 296 GTB’s capabilities is a truly startling experience. As the performance figures suggest – a blistering 0-62mph sprint in just 2.9 seconds and a top speed nudging 205mph – the acceleration is of the “hold-on-tight/nervous-laughter” variety. It’s an intensity that verges on the overwhelming, yet it’s paradoxically addictive. This is a seriously rapid machine, and it sounds sensational too, with a symphony of turbo spooling effects overlaid with the tuneful rasp of the V6.
Ride and Handling: A Masterclass in Driver Engagement
What truly distinguishes the Ferrari 296 GTB is the extraordinary responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s assertion that the car was conceived to be “fun to drive” is not an exaggeration; it’s a profound truth. The handling is incredibly agile without ever feeling nervous. The steering, typically light and exceptionally quick, is also remarkably communicative, feeding nuanced information back to the driver. While the grip levels are, as expected, immense, the car’s true magic lies in its throttle adjustability. This allows for an exhilarating degree of control that is guaranteed to elicit a broad grin.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a tangible lack of inertia throughout the entire vehicle, which encourages a symbiotic relationship between driver and machine. Small, precise inputs are all that’s needed, and the accuracy and precision with which the car responds are deeply rewarding. Engaging the CT Off mode offers a profound sense of liberation, knowing that a highly intelligent electronic guardian is still in place, but even with all systems deactivated, the 296 GTB’s innate balance allows for playful teasing into oversteer that one would never anticipate in a car producing 819bhp.
On the racetrack, the 296 GTB possesses the uncanny ability to make even the longest start-finish straight feel remarkably concise. What becomes even more apparent is its surgical precision. The power is readily available to break rear-wheel traction at numerous points around the lap, yet the 296 GTB is acutely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. It quickly becomes evident that precision in control inputs yields the most significant rewards. The turn-in accuracy and response are simply phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. Instead of gently easing the car into turns and allowing loads to build, the 296 GTB settles into its apex immediately, aided by its Multimatic dampers and the hyper-quick steering, which harmonizes beautifully with the increased roll support offered by the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for those accustomed to more conventional sports cars, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are breathtaking and provide a joy that endures lap after lap.
Interior Ambiance and Technology Interface
The cabin architecture will feel immediately familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90 Stradale, as the 296 GTB borrows heavily from its hybrid sibling. The fully digital interface, complemented by haptic switchgear extensively integrated into the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari stalks, presents a learning curve. It is undeniably complex, and to be fair, there is a vast amount of information to convey. However, the primary frustration arises when simple operations sometimes require a second press to register, or one is left uncertain whether an input has been successfully acknowledged. Despite these ergonomic challenges, the cabin undeniably feels like a special place to be.
Expert Verdict: The 2022 evo Car of the Year Contender
At the conclusion of the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, the competition between the McLaren Artura and the Ferrari 296 GTB was extraordinarily close. The judges were evenly split, with three narrowly favoring the Ferrari and three giving a slight edge to the McLaren.
Those who placed the 296 GTB at the top, including myself, were captivated by its sheer brilliance. “What a spectacular car,” enthused Jethro. “Beautiful to behold, outrageously fast, astonishingly exploitable, and technically ingenious. Its V6 engine demonstrates how to downsize effectively while amplifying the drama, and it matches the Artura in terms of sheer control, yet possesses a more playful and indulgent character.”
Dickie’s assessment, echoed by many, was that it was “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” He further elaborated, “The hybrid system integrates seamlessly and doesn’t alter the driving experience as much as I had anticipated. This is likely due to our increasing familiarity with the torquey characteristics of turbocharged V8s in cars like the 488 and F8. The 296 is stonkingly quick, but its appeal extends beyond mere speed, thanks to the character of the V6, which delivers a consistently sweet soundtrack that evolves with throttle input.”
The seamless integration of the Ferrari’s hybridisation was widely lauded. However, a notable incident occurred on the final night when the car became stranded due to a depleted battery with no apparent means of revival. While Ferrari had previously cautioned about this possibility and provided guidance on preventative measures, it remains a scenario an owner could potentially face. As Gallagher pointed out, “It’s a significant oversight that the company responsible for introducing individual rear-wheel steering to its cars cannot engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent such an occurrence.” Fortunately, this happened after all cars had been scored.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering was a point of contention, and the brake pedal feel didn’t quite reach the lofty standards set by the best in the group. The technology interface also faced widespread criticism for its excessive complexity. Nevertheless, the 296 GTB proved to be irresistibly seductive. Vivian confessed, “I initially thought I wouldn’t be overly fond of the Fezza – too complex, with rather gratuitous points of differentiation. However, I found myself somewhat bewitched by its uncanny ability to change direction, its astonishing damping, its looney-tunes levels of grip, and the linearity of its seemingly endless power delivery…”
Peter Tomalin, reflecting on the evo Car of the Year 2022, stated, “This represents a significant return to form for Ferrari, especially after the SF90 left us feeling rather cold last year. The 296 is far more successful because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels much more natural and considerably less intrusive.” Gallagher concurred, adding, “Ferrari has clearly learned from the SF90, extracting valuable lessons and distilling them into a series-production model that stands as one of its finest achievements.”
Price, Rivals, and the Future of Hypercar Performance
When a vehicle is so heavily endowed with advanced technology, there’s always the inherent risk that it might fall short of being the sum of its parts. This was an observation we made with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power output, proved somewhat unnerving in its challenging driving characteristics.
The Ferrari 296 GTB, however, represents a distinct departure. As evidenced by its joint third-place finish alongside the McLaren Artura at the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, it exhibits a more organic character. Its potent blend of power and engaging dynamics strikes a remarkable sweet spot, effectively redefining the expectations for a supercar in the approximately £250,000 price bracket. A more potent Versione Speciale variant is anticipated this year, promising even greater power, performance, and intensity. The hope is that the standard 296’s remarkably natural feel will be retained.
It is this crucial aspect of the 296 GTB’s character that we hope Lamborghini has meticulously focused on while developing its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is an almost obscene amount of power for a series-production supercar, and it has the potential to overwhelm the chassis if the rest of the car isn’t expertly resolved to manage it. If Lamborghini has succeeded in its execution – and the remarkable capability of the Revuelto provides strong reason for optimism – then we are poised for an epic twin-test showdown.
Alternatively, we could expand this to a 2400bhp triple threat, including the McLaren 750S. It may seem absurd to describe it as the ‘minnow’ of this group with only 740bhp, but its relatively svelte 1389kg kerb weight ensures a competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw appeal, ergonomic perfection, sharp steering, and sublime chassis dynamics undeniably set it apart from the comparatively more remote Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB Key Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbocharged V6, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819bhp @ 8000rpm
Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry) (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Price: £250,000+
The Ferrari 296 GTB represents a significant leap forward, a fusion of raw power, advanced hybrid technology, and an almost telepathic connection to the driver. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve at an electrifying pace, the question is not just how much power these hypercars can produce, but how effectively that power can be translated into an engaging and accessible driving experience.
Are you ready to explore the future of supercar performance? Discover the unparalleled driving dynamics of the Ferrari 296 GTB and experience the pinnacle of Italian engineering firsthand. Contact your local Ferrari dealership today to arrange a private viewing or to learn more about bespoke ordering options.
The Ferrari 296 GTB: Electrifying Evolution in the Hypercar Arena
For over a decade, the pinnacle of automotive engineering has been defined by a relentless pursuit of power and precision, a domain where names like Ferrari and Lamborghini have etched their legends. As an industry veteran with ten years immersed in the high-octane world of supercars, I’ve witnessed firsthand the dramatic shifts and breathtaking innovations that have reshaped this segment. Today, the Ferrari 296 GTB, a marvel of modern automotive technology, stands as a testament to this evolution, particularly as it prepares to face formidable new rivals in the next-generation Lamborghini Temerario. This isn’t just about horsepower figures; it’s about a profound redefinition of what a supercar can be, blending electrifying performance with an uncanny ability to connect the driver to the road.
The arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 marked a watershed moment. Forgoing the revered, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 that had defined Ferrari’s mid-engined supercars for years, Maranello boldly embraced a new twin-turbocharged V6, augmented by a potent electric motor. This was a calculated gamble, placing the 296 GTB at the vanguard of a segment that was only tentatively dipping its toes into the waters of hybrid propulsion. Its direct competitor at launch, the Lamborghini Huracán, offered the intoxicating charisma and raw auditory theatre of a naturally aspirated V10, while the McLaren 720S countered with its own formidable twin-turbo V8. The narrative is now shifting dramatically. The forthcoming Lamborghini Temerario, a projected 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid beast, is more than just a new model; it’s Lamborghini’s assertive challenge to Ferrari’s electrified Berlinetta, which boasts an impressive 819bhp.
The sheer output of the Ferrari 296 GTB is, frankly, astounding. Its all-new 120-degree, twin-turbo V6, paired with an electric motor driving only the rear wheels (a distinction from the SF90 Stradale), delivers a combined 819bhp. This configuration shattered established supercar conventions, pushing the boundaries of what was previously considered achievable in a road-legal vehicle. It’s easy to become fixated on such colossal power figures and wonder where this escalating performance will ultimately lead, and perhaps more importantly, where one might actually harness such velocity. But the true brilliance of the 296 GTB lies not just in its raw numbers, but in its groundbreaking engineering and driver-focused philosophy.
Historically, the V6 configuration was reserved for Ferrari’s more accessible models, with the iconic 246 GT Dino never officially bearing the Prancing Horse emblem. The 296 GTB changes that perception entirely, marking the first V6-powered Ferrari road car to carry the legendary badge. It pioneers a “hot-vee” turbocharger arrangement, where the turbos are nestled within the V of the engine, enabling a more compact design and quicker throttle response. Furthermore, it’s a plug-in hybrid, capable of traversing approximately 15 miles on electric power alone. This compact V6 is positioned low within a newly developed aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors. This packaging allows the occupants to sit slightly further forward, enhancing the sense of intimacy with the machine.
The electric motor contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 engine independently produces a remarkable 654bhp and 546lb ft. Ferrari wisely abstains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the intricate interplay between the electric motor and the internal combustion engine. However, it’s safe to assume the combined output is nothing short of colossal. Crucially, this V6-hybrid powertrain is approximately 30kg lighter than a comparable Ferrari V8, and it’s mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a sleek, oblong unit, is ingeniously housed behind the seats.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems, and the 296 GTB is no exception. The centerpiece is the six-axis sensor known as 6w-CDS, a revolutionary system capable of measuring acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes. This advanced sensor replaces traditional yaw sensors and, in conjunction with a steering rack sensor, grants the car an unprecedented understanding of both driver input and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patch. This information is then fed to systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, meticulously optimizing cornering speeds while steadfastly maintaining stability and driver confidence. It also facilitates the introduction of ABS-evo, a particularly apt name, in RACE mode and above. Leveraging the car’s brake-by-wire system, ABS-evo not only shortens braking distances but also refines braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers, allowing for more precise corner entries.
For the first time in its history, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics not to reduce drag, but to generate downforce. The company claims an impressive 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a significant portion, up to 100kg, being generated by a deployable rear wing. The car’s thermal management is equally ingenious. Two radiators in the front manage engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two condensers dedicated to cooling the battery. Hot air is expelled underneath the car to avoid disrupting the flow of cool air directed towards the intercoolers along the flanks. Small apertures beneath the headlamps are dedicated to brake cooling, while a roofline-integrated spoiler creates a “virtual” rear screen, guiding air to the rear of the vehicle as if it were following a sculpted surface. A significant portion of the 296’s downforce is generated from beneath the car, with particular attention paid to the diffuser and the underbody’s ground clearance to maximize the effectiveness of these aerodynamic surfaces.
The initial circuit demonstrations featured the Ferrari 296 GTB equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-oriented upgrade swaps the standard dampers for Multimatic units derived from GT racing and adds carbon fiber aerodynamic elements to the front splitter, increasing front downforce by an additional 20kg. The Assetto Fiorano package also incorporates more carbon fiber in the interior, such as the door panels, and on the exterior, contributing to a total weight saving of 12kg. This figure increases to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. Further enhancing track performance, Fiorano-spec cars can be fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, a significant step up from the standard Pilot Sport 4S. The Assetto Fiorano option even extends to an exterior graphics package, a nostalgic nod to the legendary 250LM of the 1960s. Visually, the 296 GTB is a masterpiece. Having spent considerable time with the car, I can attest to its stunning, almost otherworldly beauty. It possesses a unique aesthetic, even without the more flamboyant graphic treatments, echoing the timeless elegance of its predecessors.
Experiencing the Ferrari 296 GTB: Performance and Dynamics
Initiating movement in the Ferrari 296 GTB is a deliberate, yet remarkably simple, affair. A double press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss and selecting first gear are all that’s required. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, gliding away silently on electric power unless prompted otherwise by the intuitive haptic driver mode selectors on the steering wheel. Gentle throttle inputs will maintain electric propulsion, provided there’s sufficient charge in the battery. For those seeking pure electric tranquility, a dedicated EV mode can be engaged, irrespective of the powertrain’s demands. Beyond this, the Performance and Qualify modes unlock the full potential of the hybrid powertrain, working in tandem for maximum exhilaration. Performance mode judiciously manages battery charge, while Qualify mode unleashes unadulterated, no-holds-barred power, regardless of the battery’s state.
The experience of gliding silently through urban landscapes is a surprisingly serene pleasure. The damping system is so sophisticated that it transforms the cabin into a remarkably comfortable space for covering long distances. The “frunk” offers a reasonable amount of luggage capacity, a welcome improvement over the SF90 Stradale. But the true question on everyone’s mind, including mine, is: what does it feel like when both the V6 engine and the electric motor are unleashed?
The immediate surge of acceleration when planting the throttle from low revs in a high gear is nothing short of astonishing. The 296 GTB simply rockets forward, with virtually zero lag, prompting one to momentarily question the very necessity of gear changes, such is its potency. Yet, with eight gears to exploit and an engine that willingly spins to 8500rpm, the full unleashing of the 296 GTB’s capabilities is a truly startling experience. As the performance figures suggest – a blistering 0-62mph sprint in just 2.9 seconds and a top speed nudging 205mph – the acceleration is of the “hold-on-tight/nervous-laughter” variety. It’s an intensity that verges on the overwhelming, yet it’s paradoxically addictive. This is a seriously rapid machine, and it sounds sensational too, with a symphony of turbo spooling effects overlaid with the tuneful rasp of the V6.
Ride and Handling: A Masterclass in Driver Engagement
What truly distinguishes the Ferrari 296 GTB is the extraordinary responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s assertion that the car was conceived to be “fun to drive” is not an exaggeration; it’s a profound truth. The handling is incredibly agile without ever feeling nervous. The steering, typically light and exceptionally quick, is also remarkably communicative, feeding nuanced information back to the driver. While the grip levels are, as expected, immense, the car’s true magic lies in its throttle adjustability. This allows for an exhilarating degree of control that is guaranteed to elicit a broad grin.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a tangible lack of inertia throughout the entire vehicle, which encourages a symbiotic relationship between driver and machine. Small, precise inputs are all that’s needed, and the accuracy and precision with which the car responds are deeply rewarding. Engaging the CT Off mode offers a profound sense of liberation, knowing that a highly intelligent electronic guardian is still in place, but even with all systems deactivated, the 296 GTB’s innate balance allows for playful teasing into oversteer that one would never anticipate in a car producing 819bhp.
On the racetrack, the 296 GTB possesses the uncanny ability to make even the longest start-finish straight feel remarkably concise. What becomes even more apparent is its surgical precision. The power is readily available to break rear-wheel traction at numerous points around the lap, yet the 296 GTB is acutely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. It quickly becomes evident that precision in control inputs yields the most significant rewards. The turn-in accuracy and response are simply phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. Instead of gently easing the car into turns and allowing loads to build, the 296 GTB settles into its apex immediately, aided by its Multimatic dampers and the hyper-quick steering, which harmonizes beautifully with the increased roll support offered by the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for those accustomed to more conventional sports cars, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are breathtaking and provide a joy that endures lap after lap.
Interior Ambiance and Technology Interface
The cabin architecture will feel immediately familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90 Stradale, as the 296 GTB borrows heavily from its hybrid sibling. The fully digital interface, complemented by haptic switchgear extensively integrated into the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari stalks, presents a learning curve. It is undeniably complex, and to be fair, there is a vast amount of information to convey. However, the primary frustration arises when simple operations sometimes require a second press to register, or one is left uncertain whether an input has been successfully acknowledged. Despite these ergonomic challenges, the cabin undeniably feels like a special place to be.
Expert Verdict: The 2022 evo Car of the Year Contender
At the conclusion of the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, the competition between the McLaren Artura and the Ferrari 296 GTB was extraordinarily close. The judges were evenly split, with three narrowly favoring the Ferrari and three giving a slight edge to the McLaren.
Those who placed the 296 GTB at the top, including myself, were captivated by its sheer brilliance. “What a spectacular car,” enthused Jethro. “Beautiful to behold, outrageously fast, astonishingly exploitable, and technically ingenious. Its V6 engine demonstrates how to downsize effectively while amplifying the drama, and it matches the Artura in terms of sheer control, yet possesses a more playful and indulgent character.”
Dickie’s assessment, echoed by many, was that it was “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” He further elaborated, “The hybrid system integrates seamlessly and doesn’t alter the driving experience as much as I had anticipated. This is likely due to our increasing familiarity with the torquey characteristics of turbocharged V8s in cars like the 488 and F8. The 296 is stonkingly quick, but its appeal extends beyond mere speed, thanks to the character of the V6, which delivers a consistently sweet soundtrack that evolves with throttle input.”
The seamless integration of the Ferrari’s hybridisation was widely lauded. However, a notable incident occurred on the final night when the car became stranded due to a depleted battery with no apparent means of revival. While Ferrari had previously cautioned about this possibility and provided guidance on preventative measures, it remains a scenario an owner could potentially face. As Gallagher pointed out, “It’s a significant oversight that the company responsible for introducing individual rear-wheel steering to its cars cannot engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent such an occurrence.” Fortunately, this happened after all cars had been scored.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering was a point of contention, and the brake pedal feel didn’t quite reach the lofty standards set by the best in the group. The technology interface also faced widespread criticism for its excessive complexity. Nevertheless, the 296 GTB proved to be irresistibly seductive. Vivian confessed, “I initially thought I wouldn’t be overly fond of the Fezza – too complex, with rather gratuitous points of differentiation. However, I found myself somewhat bewitched by its uncanny ability to change direction, its astonishing damping, its looney-tunes levels of grip, and the linearity of its seemingly endless power delivery…”
Peter Tomalin, reflecting on the evo Car of the Year 2022, stated, “This represents a significant return to form for Ferrari, especially after the SF90 left us feeling rather cold last year. The 296 is far more successful because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels much more natural and considerably less intrusive.” Gallagher concurred, adding, “Ferrari has clearly learned from the SF90, extracting valuable lessons and distilling them into a series-production model that stands as one of its finest achievements.”
Price, Rivals, and the Future of Hypercar Performance
When a vehicle is so heavily endowed with advanced technology, there’s always the inherent risk that it might fall short of being the sum of its parts. This was an observation we made with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power output, proved somewhat unnerving in its challenging driving characteristics.
The Ferrari 296 GTB, however, represents a distinct departure. As evidenced by its joint third-place finish alongside the McLaren Artura at the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, it exhibits a more organic character. Its potent blend of power and engaging dynamics strikes a remarkable sweet spot, effectively redefining the expectations for a supercar in the approximately £250,000 price bracket. A more potent Versione Speciale variant is anticipated this year, promising even greater power, performance, and intensity. The hope is that the standard 296’s remarkably natural feel will be retained.
It is this crucial aspect of the 296 GTB’s character that we hope Lamborghini has meticulously focused on while developing its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is an almost obscene amount of power for a series-production supercar, and it has the potential to overwhelm the chassis if the rest of the car isn’t expertly resolved to manage it. If Lamborghini has succeeded in its execution – and the remarkable capability of the Revuelto provides strong reason for optimism – then we are poised for an epic twin-test showdown.
Alternatively, we could expand this to a 2400bhp triple threat, including the McLaren 750S. It may seem absurd to describe it as the ‘minnow’ of this group with only 740bhp, but its relatively svelte 1389kg kerb weight ensures a competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw appeal, ergonomic perfection, sharp steering, and sublime chassis dynamics undeniably set it apart from the comparatively more remote Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB Key Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbocharged V6, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819bhp @ 8000rpm
Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry) (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Price: £250,000+
The Ferrari 296 GTB represents a significant leap forward, a fusion of raw power, advanced hybrid technology, and an almost telepathic connection to the driver. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve at an electrifying pace, the question is not just how much power these hypercars can produce, but how effectively that power can be translated into an engaging and accessible driving experience.
Are you ready to explore the future of supercar performance? Discover the unparalleled driving dynamics of the Ferrari 296 GTB and experience the pinnacle of Italian engineering firsthand. Contact your local Ferrari dealership today to arrange a private viewing or to learn more about bespoke ordering options.