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The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB: A Hybrid Masterpiece Challenging the Supercar Hierarchy
For a decade now, the supercar landscape has been defined by a relentless pursuit of raw power and visceral engagement. Engine displacement has been king, the roar of naturally aspirated V10s and the thunder of twin-turbo V8s echoing through canyons and across racetracks. But as the automotive industry pivots towards a more sustainable, electrified future, even the most iconic marques are adapting. Ferrari, a brand synonymous with performance heritage, has boldly stepped into this new era with the 296 GTB, a car that not only embraces electrification but masterfully integrates it, creating a driving experience that is as exhilarating as it is revolutionary. This isn’t just another supercar; it’s a statement, a declaration of intent that Ferrari remains at the apex of automotive innovation, a benchmark that new contenders, like the highly anticipated Lamborghini Temerario, must now unequivocally surpass.
At its core, the Ferrari 296 GTB represents an unprecedented shift for the Prancing Horse. After years of celebrated V8 dominance, Maranello has embraced a twin-turbocharged V6, augmented by a potent electric motor. This departure from tradition, which debuted in 2022, arrived at a moment when the upper echelon of the supercar market was still tentatively exploring hybrid powertrains. For years, the benchmark was a more traditional battle: the Lamborghini Huracán, with its sonorous, naturally aspirated V10, and the ferocious McLaren 720S, a V8-powered titan. The McLaren 750S, an evolution of that theme, continues to champion power-to-weight supremacy. However, the emerging threat, the Lamborghini Temerario, with its staggering 903bhp and 10,000rpm redline from a twin-turbo V8 hybrid powertrain, is a direct and potent challenge to the 819bhp hybridised Berlinetta from Maranello.
The Ferrari 296 GTB doesn’t just meet this challenge; it redefines the terms of engagement. Its 819bhp output is a mind-bending figure, prompting questions about the ultimate limits of power escalation in series production supercars and, perhaps more importantly, the practicality of deploying such performance. Yet, these are questions best reserved for another time. The immediate reality of the 296 GTB is its pioneering spirit. It marks the first V6-powered Ferrari road car (distinct from the revered 246 GT Dino, which never bore the Prancing Horse emblem in its era), the first to feature a ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger configuration, and critically, it’s a plug-in hybrid with a usable EV-only range of approximately 15 miles.
Beneath its sculpted skin lies a marvel of engineering. The compact V6, nestled low in a new aluminium chassis, boasts a wheelbase shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, with occupants positioned slightly further forward for enhanced weight distribution and feedback. The electric motor contributes a significant 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 alone churns out an astonishing 654bhp and 546lb ft. Ferrari, with characteristic prudence, refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the intricate interplay between the combustion engine and electric motor. However, it’s safe to infer that this combined output is, to put it mildly, substantial. The V6 itself offers a weight saving of 30kg over Ferrari’s V8s and is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a sleek, oblong unit, is strategically positioned behind the seats, contributing to the car’s exceptionally low center of gravity.
As expected from a marque like Ferrari, the 296 GTB is a symphony of sophisticated electronic chassis systems, orchestrated by a newly developed six-axis sensor known as 6w-CDS. This advanced system meticulously measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes, effectively replacing traditional yaw sensors. In concert with a sensor on the steering rack, it provides the car with an intimate understanding of driver intent and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patches. This intelligence is then leveraged by systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff to maximize cornering speeds while maintaining unflappable stability. A notable innovation is the ABS-evo system, available in RACE mode and above, which, through the car’s brake-by-wire setup, not only shortens braking distances but also significantly enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers into corners.
Aerodynamics play a crucial role, and for the 296 GTB, Ferrari has pivoted from drag reduction to downforce generation. The car generates an impressive 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a substantial 100kg of that figure attributed to an active rear wing that deploys from the car’s tail. Cooling is managed by two radiators in the front for engine and gearbox, supplemented by two condensers for battery cooling. Hot air is expertly channeled underneath the car, ensuring it doesn’t disrupt the airflow directed to the intercoolers along the flanks. Small apertures below the headlamps are dedicated to brake cooling, while a roofline-integrated wing sculpts a ‘virtual’ rear screen, guiding air towards the rear of the car as if it were adhering to a physical surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce, however, is generated beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid to the underbody channeling, rear diffuser, and ground clearance to maximize the effectiveness of these potent downforce-generating surfaces.
Our initial experience with the Ferrari 296 GTB on track was exclusively with the Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-oriented upgrade replaces the standard dampers with advanced Multimatic units, derived from GT racing technology, and adds further carbon aerodynamic elements to the nose, increasing front downforce by an additional 20kg. Inside, more carbon fiber accents are present, including the door panels, contributing to a 12kg weight saving, which can be further enhanced to 15kg with the optional Lexan engine cover. For those seeking the ultimate track grip, the Fiorano package also offers the option of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, superseding the standard Pilot Sport 4S. Visually, Fiorano-equipped cars can be adorned with an exterior graphics package that pays homage to the iconic 250LM of the 1960s.
The aesthetic appeal of the 296 GTB is undeniable. In person, it’s a strikingly beautiful machine, possessing a design language that feels utterly unique. Even without the divisive graphic options, its lines evoke the spirit of the 1960s 250LM, a testament to Ferrari’s enduring design DNA. This visual prowess is matched by its performance.
Initiating a drive is as simple as a double press of the lower steering wheel boss, followed by selecting first gear. The 296 always defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing for silent, electric-only departure, unless the driver dictates otherwise via the intuitive haptic mode selectors on the steering wheel boss. Gentle throttle application keeps the car purely on electric power, provided the battery retains sufficient charge. For those seeking an emission-free experience, a dedicated EV mode can be selected, overriding powertrain demands. Alternatively, Performance and Qualifying modes unleash the full might of both power sources. Performance mode balances electric and combustion power, prioritizing a sustained charge for the battery, while Qualifying mode unleashes absolute maximum performance, disregarding battery state of charge.
The sensation of gliding silently through urban environments is an unexpected delight. The ride quality, thanks to the sophisticated damping, is remarkably supple, making it a surprisingly comfortable companion for extended journeys. Even the luggage space in the ‘frunk’ is respectable, a welcome improvement over the SF90. But the true magic, the moment that ignites the senses, arrives when both the V6 engine and the electric motor are fully engaged.
Planting the throttle at low revs in a high gear triggers an instantaneous surge of acceleration, so potent that it momentarily makes you question the necessity of gear changes. Yet, with eight gears at your disposal and an engine that eagerly spins to an 8500rpm redline, the full unleashing of the 296’s capabilities is nothing short of astounding. The acceleration figures, a blistering 0-62mph in the sub-3-second range and a top speed exceeding 205mph, translate into a force that evokes a mix of nervous laughter and an almost overwhelming sense of addictive urgency. This is a seriously rapid machine, and its soundtrack is equally compelling – a harmonious V6 rasp interwoven with engaging turbocharger sound effects.
The responsiveness of the Ferrari 296 GTB chassis is truly remarkable. Ferrari’s assertion that the car was engineered to be “fun to drive” is not mere marketing; it’s a palpable reality. The car feels incredibly agile without ever becoming skittish. The steering is characteristically light and swift, yet it delivers nuanced feedback, connecting the driver intimately with the road. Grip levels are predictably immense, but crucially, the car remains delightfully throttle-adjustable, eliciting grins with every playful application of power.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter, exhibiting a remarkable lack of inertia that encourages fluid, precise inputs. The CT Off mode provides a safety net of electronic assistance, offering reassurance even when pushing the limits. However, even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296’s innate balance allows for a level of playful oversteer that defies its prodigious power output.
On a circuit, the Ferrari 296 GTB possesses the ability to make even the longest straights feel compressed. It functions as a razor-sharp instrument, its immense power capable of breaking traction at multiple points around the lap. Yet, its sensitivity to braking and steering inputs rewards precision. Mastering these controls unlocks the car’s full potential, with incredible turn-in accuracy and response dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. The car immediately settles into its apex, aided by the Multimatic dampers and the hyper-quick steering, which harmonizes beautifully with the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. The sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 are phenomenal, offering an exhilarating and deeply rewarding driving experience, lap after lap.
The interior architecture of the 296 GTB will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90. However, the all-digital interface and its accompanying haptic switchgear, liberally spread across the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods, present a learning curve. While undoubtedly complex, reflecting the vast amount of information being conveyed, the primary frustration lies in the occasional need for a second press for inputs to register, or the uncertainty of whether a command has been successfully executed. Despite these usability quirks, the cabin exudes a sense of occasion and exclusivity.
In the highly competitive arena of automotive awards, the Ferrari 296 GTB proved itself a formidable contender. In evo’s Car of the Year 2022, it narrowly missed overall victory, ending in a tie for third place with the McLaren Artura. The judges were closely divided, with an equal split of opinions. Those who favored the Ferrari highlighted its spectacular design, outrageous speed, and remarkable exploitability, praising its technical sophistication. Jethro Bovingdon lauded its V6 for demonstrating how to downsize while amplifying drama, and noted its control was on par with the Artura, but with a more playful and indulgent character.
Dickie Meaden described it as “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” echoing sentiments shared by many. He lauded the seamless integration of the hybrid system, stating it didn’t detract from the driving experience, likely due to the familiar torquey nature of turbocharged V8s in previous models like the 488 and F8. He further noted the 296’s stonking pace was complemented by the character of the V6, which produced a consistently sweet soundtrack that varied with throttle opening.
While the Ferrari’s hybridisation was widely praised for its seamless integration, one notable incident occurred where the car was stranded after the battery depleted with no apparent means of revival. Although Ferrari had provided prior warnings and advised precautionary measures, it raised concerns about owners potentially facing similar predicaments. As Andrew Gallagher pointed out, it was a significant oversight that a company renowned for its engineering prowess, including the introduction of individual rear-wheel steering, couldn’t engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent such an event. Fortunately for the 296, this occurred after all scoring was complete.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering was a point of contention among some, and the brake feel, while competent, didn’t quite match the very best in the group. The technological interface also faced criticism for its complexity. However, these minor drawbacks were largely overshadowed by the car’s irresistible allure. Vivian’s initial apprehension about the Ferrari’s complexity and perceived “gratuitous points of difference” gave way to a state of bewilderment, captivated by its uncanny directional changes, astonishing damping, and “looney-tunes” levels of grip, all delivered with a linearity of power that felt seemingly unending.
Peter Tomalin, summing up the evo Car of the Year 2022 verdict, declared the 296 GTB a “real return to form for Ferrari,” particularly in contrast to the SF90 which had left them feeling “cold.” He emphasized that the 296’s technical sophistication and the integration of its hybrid technology felt far more natural and less intrusive. Gallagher concurred, stating that Ferrari had learned from the SF90 and distilled its lessons into a series production model that stands as one of its finest creations.
When a vehicle is as densely packed with advanced technology as the Ferrari 296 GTB, there’s always the risk that it might become less than the sum of its parts. This was a criticism leveled at the SF90, which, despite its dazzling power, proved unnerving with its challenging driving characteristics.
However, the 296 GTB offers a distinctly different proposition. Its organic feel, combined with a perfect synergy of power and engaging dynamics, strikes a remarkable sweet spot, effectively redefining what a supercar priced around £250,000 can achieve. A highly anticipated Versione Speciale variant, rumored to offer even greater power, performance, and intensity, is expected this year. The hope remains that the standard 296’s inexplicably natural driving feel will be preserved.
It is this fundamental aspect of the 296 GTB’s character that we eagerly hope Lamborghini has meticulously addressed in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is an almost obscene amount of power for a series production supercar, and without a perfectly resolved chassis to match, it could prove detrimental. If Lamborghini has indeed achieved this crucial balance – and the sheer brilliance of the Revuelto provides ample reason for optimism – then we are poised for an epic twin test, potentially featuring a combined output of over 1700bhp. Alternatively, we could witness a colossal 2400bhp triple threat, including the McLaren 750S, which, by comparison, might seem like the minnow of the class with its “mere” 740bhp. However, the McLaren’s relatively lithe 1389kg kerb weight ensures a fiercely competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s inherent rawness, ergonomic perfection, razor-sharp steering, and deft chassis dynamics offer a distinct contrast to the comparatively more remote feel of the Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbo 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 is more than just a technological marvel; it’s a testament to a heritage of passion, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the ultimate driving experience. As the supercar landscape continues its electrifying evolution, the 296 GTB stands as a beacon, showcasing what is possible when electrification is not an afterthought, but the very soul of performance. If you’re ready to experience the future of supercars, today, then exploring the dynamic capabilities of the 296 GTB is your definitive next step.
The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB: A Hybrid Masterpiece Challenging the Supercar Hierarchy
For a decade now, the supercar landscape has been defined by a relentless pursuit of raw power and visceral engagement. Engine displacement has been king, the roar of naturally aspirated V10s and the thunder of twin-turbo V8s echoing through canyons and across racetracks. But as the automotive industry pivots towards a more sustainable, electrified future, even the most iconic marques are adapting. Ferrari, a brand synonymous with performance heritage, has boldly stepped into this new era with the 296 GTB, a car that not only embraces electrification but masterfully integrates it, creating a driving experience that is as exhilarating as it is revolutionary. This isn’t just another supercar; it’s a statement, a declaration of intent that Ferrari remains at the apex of automotive innovation, a benchmark that new contenders, like the highly anticipated Lamborghini Temerario, must now unequivocally surpass.
At its core, the Ferrari 296 GTB represents an unprecedented shift for the Prancing Horse. After years of celebrated V8 dominance, Maranello has embraced a twin-turbocharged V6, augmented by a potent electric motor. This departure from tradition, which debuted in 2022, arrived at a moment when the upper echelon of the supercar market was still tentatively exploring hybrid powertrains. For years, the benchmark was a more traditional battle: the Lamborghini Huracán, with its sonorous, naturally aspirated V10, and the ferocious McLaren 720S, a V8-powered titan. The McLaren 750S, an evolution of that theme, continues to champion power-to-weight supremacy. However, the emerging threat, the Lamborghini Temerario, with its staggering 903bhp and 10,000rpm redline from a twin-turbo V8 hybrid powertrain, is a direct and potent challenge to the 819bhp hybridised Berlinetta from Maranello.
The Ferrari 296 GTB doesn’t just meet this challenge; it redefines the terms of engagement. Its 819bhp output is a mind-bending figure, prompting questions about the ultimate limits of power escalation in series production supercars and, perhaps more importantly, the practicality of deploying such performance. Yet, these are questions best reserved for another time. The immediate reality of the 296 GTB is its pioneering spirit. It marks the first V6-powered Ferrari road car (distinct from the revered 246 GT Dino, which never bore the Prancing Horse emblem in its era), the first to feature a ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger configuration, and critically, it’s a plug-in hybrid with a usable EV-only range of approximately 15 miles.
Beneath its sculpted skin lies a marvel of engineering. The compact V6, nestled low in a new aluminium chassis, boasts a wheelbase shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, with occupants positioned slightly further forward for enhanced weight distribution and feedback. The electric motor contributes a significant 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 alone churns out an astonishing 654bhp and 546lb ft. Ferrari, with characteristic prudence, refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the intricate interplay between the combustion engine and electric motor. However, it’s safe to infer that this combined output is, to put it mildly, substantial. The V6 itself offers a weight saving of 30kg over Ferrari’s V8s and is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a sleek, oblong unit, is strategically positioned behind the seats, contributing to the car’s exceptionally low center of gravity.
As expected from a marque like Ferrari, the 296 GTB is a symphony of sophisticated electronic chassis systems, orchestrated by a newly developed six-axis sensor known as 6w-CDS. This advanced system meticulously measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes, effectively replacing traditional yaw sensors. In concert with a sensor on the steering rack, it provides the car with an intimate understanding of driver intent and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patches. This intelligence is then leveraged by systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff to maximize cornering speeds while maintaining unflappable stability. A notable innovation is the ABS-evo system, available in RACE mode and above, which, through the car’s brake-by-wire setup, not only shortens braking distances but also significantly enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers into corners.
Aerodynamics play a crucial role, and for the 296 GTB, Ferrari has pivoted from drag reduction to downforce generation. The car generates an impressive 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a substantial 100kg of that figure attributed to an active rear wing that deploys from the car’s tail. Cooling is managed by two radiators in the front for engine and gearbox, supplemented by two condensers for battery cooling. Hot air is expertly channeled underneath the car, ensuring it doesn’t disrupt the airflow directed to the intercoolers along the flanks. Small apertures below the headlamps are dedicated to brake cooling, while a roofline-integrated wing sculpts a ‘virtual’ rear screen, guiding air towards the rear of the car as if it were adhering to a physical surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce, however, is generated beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid to the underbody channeling, rear diffuser, and ground clearance to maximize the effectiveness of these potent downforce-generating surfaces.
Our initial experience with the Ferrari 296 GTB on track was exclusively with the Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-oriented upgrade replaces the standard dampers with advanced Multimatic units, derived from GT racing technology, and adds further carbon aerodynamic elements to the nose, increasing front downforce by an additional 20kg. Inside, more carbon fiber accents are present, including the door panels, contributing to a 12kg weight saving, which can be further enhanced to 15kg with the optional Lexan engine cover. For those seeking the ultimate track grip, the Fiorano package also offers the option of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, superseding the standard Pilot Sport 4S. Visually, Fiorano-equipped cars can be adorned with an exterior graphics package that pays homage to the iconic 250LM of the 1960s.
The aesthetic appeal of the 296 GTB is undeniable. In person, it’s a strikingly beautiful machine, possessing a design language that feels utterly unique. Even without the divisive graphic options, its lines evoke the spirit of the 1960s 250LM, a testament to Ferrari’s enduring design DNA. This visual prowess is matched by its performance.
Initiating a drive is as simple as a double press of the lower steering wheel boss, followed by selecting first gear. The 296 always defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing for silent, electric-only departure, unless the driver dictates otherwise via the intuitive haptic mode selectors on the steering wheel boss. Gentle throttle application keeps the car purely on electric power, provided the battery retains sufficient charge. For those seeking an emission-free experience, a dedicated EV mode can be selected, overriding powertrain demands. Alternatively, Performance and Qualifying modes unleash the full might of both power sources. Performance mode balances electric and combustion power, prioritizing a sustained charge for the battery, while Qualifying mode unleashes absolute maximum performance, disregarding battery state of charge.
The sensation of gliding silently through urban environments is an unexpected delight. The ride quality, thanks to the sophisticated damping, is remarkably supple, making it a surprisingly comfortable companion for extended journeys. Even the luggage space in the ‘frunk’ is respectable, a welcome improvement over the SF90. But the true magic, the moment that ignites the senses, arrives when both the V6 engine and the electric motor are fully engaged.
Planting the throttle at low revs in a high gear triggers an instantaneous surge of acceleration, so potent that it momentarily makes you question the necessity of gear changes. Yet, with eight gears at your disposal and an engine that eagerly spins to an 8500rpm redline, the full unleashing of the 296’s capabilities is nothing short of astounding. The acceleration figures, a blistering 0-62mph in the sub-3-second range and a top speed exceeding 205mph, translate into a force that evokes a mix of nervous laughter and an almost overwhelming sense of addictive urgency. This is a seriously rapid machine, and its soundtrack is equally compelling – a harmonious V6 rasp interwoven with engaging turbocharger sound effects.
The responsiveness of the Ferrari 296 GTB chassis is truly remarkable. Ferrari’s assertion that the car was engineered to be “fun to drive” is not mere marketing; it’s a palpable reality. The car feels incredibly agile without ever becoming skittish. The steering is characteristically light and swift, yet it delivers nuanced feedback, connecting the driver intimately with the road. Grip levels are predictably immense, but crucially, the car remains delightfully throttle-adjustable, eliciting grins with every playful application of power.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter, exhibiting a remarkable lack of inertia that encourages fluid, precise inputs. The CT Off mode provides a safety net of electronic assistance, offering reassurance even when pushing the limits. However, even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296’s innate balance allows for a level of playful oversteer that defies its prodigious power output.
On a circuit, the Ferrari 296 GTB possesses the ability to make even the longest straights feel compressed. It functions as a razor-sharp instrument, its immense power capable of breaking traction at multiple points around the lap. Yet, its sensitivity to braking and steering inputs rewards precision. Mastering these controls unlocks the car’s full potential, with incredible turn-in accuracy and response dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. The car immediately settles into its apex, aided by the Multimatic dampers and the hyper-quick steering, which harmonizes beautifully with the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. The sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 are phenomenal, offering an exhilarating and deeply rewarding driving experience, lap after lap.
The interior architecture of the 296 GTB will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90. However, the all-digital interface and its accompanying haptic switchgear, liberally spread across the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods, present a learning curve. While undoubtedly complex, reflecting the vast amount of information being conveyed, the primary frustration lies in the occasional need for a second press for inputs to register, or the uncertainty of whether a command has been successfully executed. Despite these usability quirks, the cabin exudes a sense of occasion and exclusivity.
In the highly competitive arena of automotive awards, the Ferrari 296 GTB proved itself a formidable contender. In evo’s Car of the Year 2022, it narrowly missed overall victory, ending in a tie for third place with the McLaren Artura. The judges were closely divided, with an equal split of opinions. Those who favored the Ferrari highlighted its spectacular design, outrageous speed, and remarkable exploitability, praising its technical sophistication. Jethro Bovingdon lauded its V6 for demonstrating how to downsize while amplifying drama, and noted its control was on par with the Artura, but with a more playful and indulgent character.
Dickie Meaden described it as “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” echoing sentiments shared by many. He lauded the seamless integration of the hybrid system, stating it didn’t detract from the driving experience, likely due to the familiar torquey nature of turbocharged V8s in previous models like the 488 and F8. He further noted the 296’s stonking pace was complemented by the character of the V6, which produced a consistently sweet soundtrack that varied with throttle opening.
While the Ferrari’s hybridisation was widely praised for its seamless integration, one notable incident occurred where the car was stranded after the battery depleted with no apparent means of revival. Although Ferrari had provided prior warnings and advised precautionary measures, it raised concerns about owners potentially facing similar predicaments. As Andrew Gallagher pointed out, it was a significant oversight that a company renowned for its engineering prowess, including the introduction of individual rear-wheel steering, couldn’t engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent such an event. Fortunately for the 296, this occurred after all scoring was complete.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering was a point of contention among some, and the brake feel, while competent, didn’t quite match the very best in the group. The technological interface also faced criticism for its complexity. However, these minor drawbacks were largely overshadowed by the car’s irresistible allure. Vivian’s initial apprehension about the Ferrari’s complexity and perceived “gratuitous points of difference” gave way to a state of bewilderment, captivated by its uncanny directional changes, astonishing damping, and “looney-tunes” levels of grip, all delivered with a linearity of power that felt seemingly unending.
Peter Tomalin, summing up the evo Car of the Year 2022 verdict, declared the 296 GTB a “real return to form for Ferrari,” particularly in contrast to the SF90 which had left them feeling “cold.” He emphasized that the 296’s technical sophistication and the integration of its hybrid technology felt far more natural and less intrusive. Gallagher concurred, stating that Ferrari had learned from the SF90 and distilled its lessons into a series production model that stands as one of its finest creations.
When a vehicle is as densely packed with advanced technology as the Ferrari 296 GTB, there’s always the risk that it might become less than the sum of its parts. This was a criticism leveled at the SF90, which, despite its dazzling power, proved unnerving with its challenging driving characteristics.
However, the 296 GTB offers a distinctly different proposition. Its organic feel, combined with a perfect synergy of power and engaging dynamics, strikes a remarkable sweet spot, effectively redefining what a supercar priced around £250,000 can achieve. A highly anticipated Versione Speciale variant, rumored to offer even greater power, performance, and intensity, is expected this year. The hope remains that the standard 296’s inexplicably natural driving feel will be preserved.
It is this fundamental aspect of the 296 GTB’s character that we eagerly hope Lamborghini has meticulously addressed in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is an almost obscene amount of power for a series production supercar, and without a perfectly resolved chassis to match, it could prove detrimental. If Lamborghini has indeed achieved this crucial balance – and the sheer brilliance of the Revuelto provides ample reason for optimism – then we are poised for an epic twin test, potentially featuring a combined output of over 1700bhp. Alternatively, we could witness a colossal 2400bhp triple threat, including the McLaren 750S, which, by comparison, might seem like the minnow of the class with its “mere” 740bhp. However, the McLaren’s relatively lithe 1389kg kerb weight ensures a fiercely competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s inherent rawness, ergonomic perfection, razor-sharp steering, and deft chassis dynamics offer a distinct contrast to the comparatively more remote feel of the Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbo 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 is more than just a technological marvel; it’s a testament to a heritage of passion, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the ultimate driving experience. As the supercar landscape continues its electrifying evolution, the 296 GTB stands as a beacon, showcasing what is possible when electrification is not an afterthought, but the very soul of performance. If you’re ready to experience the future of supercars, today, then exploring the dynamic capabilities of the 296 GTB is your definitive next step.