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Ferrari 296 GTB: The Electrifying Heartbeat of the Modern Supercar Era
For a decade now, the automotive landscape has been in constant flux, a thrilling, and at times, bewildering evolution. As an industry veteran with ten years immersed in the performance car segment, I’ve witnessed firsthand the seismic shifts that have redefined what a supercar is capable of. The arrival of hybrid powertrains, once a concept relegated to eco-conscious sedans, has now fundamentally reshaped the pinnacle of automotive engineering. Amidst this transformation, a particular Maranello creation stands out as a beacon of innovation and exhilarating performance: the Ferrari 296 GTB.
Even a couple of years after its debut, the Ferrari 296 GTB continues to command attention, its hybrid V6 powertrain still a marvel of engineering. This is especially true when you consider the rumblings of fierce competition on the horizon, most notably a 903bhp, 10,000rpm Lamborghini rival poised to enter the fray.
Ferrari’s iconic mid-engined supercar formula underwent a radical, almost unprecedented, departure with the introduction of the 296 GTB in 2022. Eschewing the celebrated, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 that had long defined its lineage, Ferrari instead opted for a groundbreaking twin-turbo V6 engine augmented by an electric motor. This bold move positioned the 296 GTB as a vanguard in a high-tier supercar segment still in the nascent stages of its hybrid transition.
At its initial launch, the 296 GTB’s primary adversary was the Lamborghini Huracán, a car celebrated for its naturally aspirated V10 symphony and raw, unfiltered charisma. While it may have paled in comparative power figures, the Huracán offered a visceral, analogue experience that resonated deeply with enthusiasts. Simultaneously, the ferocious McLaren 720S, with its potent twin-turbo V8, presented another formidable challenge. While the subsequent McLaren 750S represents an evolution of that established theme, leveraging its superior power-to-weight ratio, the impending 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid Temerario from Lamborghini is an unmistakable and direct riposte to Maranello’s 819bhp hybrid Berlinetta.
Make no mistake, the 296 GTB packs an electrifying punch. Its entirely new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, coupled with a potent electric motor, propels the rear wheels exclusively – a departure from the all-wheel-drive configuration of the SF90. This fusion results in a staggering 819bhp, a figure that truly shattered established supercar conventions upon its release.
It’s easy to become fixated on such an astonishing power output, and one might naturally ponder the trajectory of this power escalation – a question that the 296 GTB itself seems to be answering with its very existence, and perhaps prompting a similar pursuit from Lamborghini. Furthermore, the practical application of such prodigious performance on public roads is a discussion for another time.
What sets the 296 GTB apart is its historic significance. It marks the first V6-powered Ferrari road car (the exquisite 246 GT Dino, while V6-powered, never bore the Prancing Horse emblem in its era), the first to adopt a ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger configuration, and importantly, it’s a plug-in hybrid with an electric-only range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6 is ingeniously mounted low within a new aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase reduced by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, with occupants positioned slightly further forward.
The electric motor alone contributes a formidable 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque. The V6 engine, in isolation, delivers a breathtaking 654bhp and 546lb ft. The combined output reaches that headline-grabbing 819bhp figure. Ferrari, however, judiciously refrains from quoting a peak combined torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the combustion engine and electric motor. Nevertheless, it’s safe to assume the resultant torque is nothing short of colossal. In terms of weight savings, the V6 unit is approximately 30kg lighter than Ferrari’s V8 counterparts. This potent powerplant is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, while the long, rectangular battery pack resides discreetly behind the seats.
No Ferrari would be complete without an array of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems, and the 296 is no exception. Ferrari has developed an advanced six-axis sensor, dubbed the 6w-CDS, capable of precisely measuring acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z planes. This revolutionary system replaces conventional yaw sensors. In conjunction with a sensor mounted on the steering rack, it grants the car an intimate understanding of the driver’s intentions and the available grip at the tire contact patch. This data is then utilized by systems such as Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff to optimize cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability and driver confidence. Furthermore, it enables a novel system known as ABS-evo, which, in RACE mode and above, leverages the 296’s brake-by-wire technology to not only shorten braking distances but also enhance braking performance during trail braking into corners.
For the first time in its history, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics not to reduce drag, but to actively generate downforce. The manufacturer quotes a figure of 360kg at 155mph, with a significant portion, up to 100kg, being produced by the deployable rear wing.
The thermal management system is a masterclass in engineering. The front of the car houses two radiators dedicated to engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two additional condensers for battery thermal management. Hot air is expertly expelled from the underbody to prevent any interference with the airflow directed towards the intercoolers flanking the vehicle. The subtle apertures beneath the headlamps are precisely engineered to channel air for brake cooling. At the rear, a wing integrated into the roofline functions as a ‘virtual’ rear screen, guiding airflow towards the car’s tail as if guided by a physical surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid to airflow management, the rear diffuser design, and crucially, the underbody’s ground clearance to maximize the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
The 296 GTBs experienced on a circuit during the launch were all equipped with the Assetto Fiorano package. This optional upgrade replaces the standard dampers with advanced Multimatic units, akin to those found in GT racing cars. It also incorporates additional carbon fiber aerodynamic elements on the front end, contributing an extra 20kg of front downforce. Inside the cabin, further carbon fiber accents, such as the door panels, along with exterior carbon fiber components, contribute to an overall weight saving of 12kg. This figure increases to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. For those opting for the Fiorano package, an additional choice includes Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, replacing the standard Pilot Sport 4S offerings. Cars specified with the Fiorano package can also be adorned with an exterior graphics package, a nostalgic nod to the iconic 250LM of the 1960s.
Having had extensive exposure to the 296 ‘in the metal,’ its aesthetic appeal is undeniable. It presents a truly distinctive silhouette, a departure from anything else on the road, evoking the spirit of the 1960s 250LM even without the more polarizing graphics option.
Performance and Acceleration Dynamics
Initiating the drive is as simple as a double-press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss, followed by selecting first gear. The 296 defaults to Hybrid mode, meaning it will silently glide away on electric power alone, unless instructed otherwise via the intuitive haptic driver mode selectors located on the left side of the steering wheel boss. As long as throttle inputs are moderate, and the battery retains charge, the car will continue its journey purely on electric propulsion.
A dedicated EV mode can be manually engaged, irrespective of powertrain demands. Beyond this, drivers can select Performance or Qualifying modes. In both of these settings, the electric motor and combustion engine work in unison. Performance mode aims to maintain optimal battery charge while delivering exhilarating power, whereas Qualifying mode unleashes the full, unadulterated fury of the powertrain, with battery charge being a secondary consideration.
The serene experience of gliding through quiet villages is an unexpected delight. The damping sophistication ensures a surprisingly comfortable ride, making it an ideal companion for long-distance journeys. Even the ‘frunk’ offers a reasonably practical luggage compartment, a welcome addition absent in the SF90. However, the true essence of this machine, the experience that truly captivates, lies in unleashing both the engine and electric motor to their full potential.
The immediate sensation when applying generous throttle at low revs in a high gear is utterly astonishing. The 296 surges forward with an immediate, lag-free response that momentarily makes you question the very necessity of gears, such is its sheer potency. Yet, there are eight gears at your disposal, and an engine that eagerly spins to 8,500rpm. When you truly uncork the 296, the resulting experience is nothing short of spectacular.
The acceleration figures, which include a sub-3-second 0-62mph time and a top speed exceeding 200mph, paint a picture of sheer, unadulterated velocity. The rate of acceleration is of the ‘hold-on-tight/nervous laughter’ variety, bordering on the intense, yet undeniably addictive. This is a car of serious, almost frightening, speed. And the accompanying soundtrack is equally impressive, a symphony of turbocharger effects blending seamlessly with the melodic rasp of the V6.
Ride Dynamics and Handling Prowess
What truly elevates the 296 GTB is the exceptional responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s assertion that the car was engineered to be ‘fun to drive’ is not hyperbole; it’s a demonstrable reality. The handling is remarkably agile without ever feeling nervous or unpredictable. The steering, a hallmark of Ferrari engineering, is typically light and rapid, but crucially, it transmits a wealth of information about the road surface. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car’s inherent adjustability via throttle inputs is a constant source of wide grins.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a remarkable lack of inertia that encourages an intuitive, collaborative driving style, favoring small, precise inputs and reveling in the car’s accuracy and precision. Engaging CT Off mode allows for daring maneuvers, with the reassurance that an advanced electronic safety net remains in place. However, even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296’s inherent balance allows it to be playfully coaxed into oversteer in a manner that seems improbable for a car producing 819bhp.
On a racetrack, the 296 possesses the uncanny ability to make even the longest straights feel dramatically shorter. What becomes even more apparent is its surgical precision. While the power is readily available to break rear-end traction at multiple points around the circuit, the 296 is also exquisitely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. It quickly becomes apparent that precision in control inputs yields the greatest rewards. The astonishing turn-in accuracy and responsiveness dramatically shorten the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing the car into turns and allowing load to build, the 296 settles immediately, its Multimatic dampers and hyper-quick steering perfectly complementing the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more conventional sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 are phenomenal, offering an addictive and joyous experience lap after lap.
Interior Ambiance and Ergonomics
The cabin architecture will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90 Stradale, as the 296 borrows heavily from its larger sibling. The fully digital interface and its associated haptic switchgear can present a steep learning curve. These touch-sensitive controls are liberally applied to the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods flanking it.
Undeniably, the system is complex. To be fair, there is a significant amount of information to convey. However, the primary frustration lies in the occasional need for a second press for simple operations that didn’t register on the first attempt, or the uncertainty of whether a press has been successfully registered at all. Despite these ergonomic challenges, the interior undeniably exudes an air of specialness.
Expert Verdict: A Return to Form and a Benchmark for Hybrid Supercars
The consensus among seasoned road testers, notably in the context of the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, was overwhelmingly positive, with the 296 GTB and the McLaren Artura proving to be exceptionally closely matched, separated by mere fractions in scoring. Judges were equally divided, with three narrowly favoring the Ferrari and three leaning towards the McLaren.
Those who championed the 296 GTB, including myself, highlighted its spectacular nature: “Beautiful to look at, outrageously fast, amazingly exploitable, and so technically clever,” one tester enthused. “Its V6 demonstrates how to downsize while amplifying the drama, and it matches the Artura in terms of sheer control, yet feels more playful and indulgent.”
Another esteemed critic described it as “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” a sentiment echoed by many. “The hybrid system works exceptionally well and doesn’t alter the driving experience as much as I’d feared,” he continued. “Perhaps because we’ve already become accustomed to the torquey characteristics of the turbocharged V8s in the 488 and F8. The 296 is stonkingly quick, but it doesn’t rely solely on speed, thanks to the character of the V6, which produces a soundtrack that is always sweet and evolves with throttle opening.”
While the Ferrari’s hybridization received widespread praise for its seamless integration, a notable incident during the final evaluation saw the car stranded due to a depleted battery with no apparent means of reactivation. Ferrari had indeed cautioned about this possibility and provided guidance on preventative measures. However, it remains conceivable that an owner could encounter a similar predicament. As one reviewer astutely observed, “for the company that pioneered individual rear-wheel steering in its cars to be unable to engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent this scenario is a significant oversight.” Fortunately for the 296 GTB, this occurred after all cars had been scored.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering divided opinion, and the brake feel, while competent, didn’t quite match the very best in class. The technological interface, as previously noted, was widely criticized for its complexity. Nevertheless, the overall allure of the 296 GTB was undeniable. “I initially thought I wouldn’t appreciate the Fezza that much – too complex, rather gratuitous points of difference,” admitted one tester, “but I ended up somewhat bewitched: its uncanny ability to change direction; its astonishing damping and looney-tunes levels of grip; the linearity of its seemingly endless power…”
The sentiment that the 296 represents a significant return to form for Ferrari, especially after the SF90 left many feeling somewhat underwhelmed, was a recurring theme. “The 296 is far more successful because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels much more natural and far less intrusive,” stated one reviewer. This view was corroborated by another who asserted, “Ferrari has learned so much from the SF90, absorbed those lessons, and distilled them into a series production model that stands as one of its absolute finest.”
Price Point and Competitive Landscape
When a vehicle is as densely packed with cutting-edge technology as the 296 GTB, there’s always an inherent risk that the sum of its parts might not quite equal the intended whole. This was a sentiment we experienced with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power output, could be somewhat unnerving in its challenging driving characteristics.
However, the 296 GTB is a distinctly different proposition. As evidenced by its strong performance in the 2022 evo Car of the Year competition, where it secured joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura, it possesses a much more organic feel. Its potent blend of raw power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect chord, effectively redefining the capabilities and expectations of a supercar in the approximate £250,000 price bracket. Rumors of a ‘Versione Speciale’ variant, a code name for an even more potent and intense iteration, are circulating, and the hope is that the standard 296’s remarkably natural driving feel will be preserved.
It is this intrinsic character of the 296 GTB that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. An output exceeding 900bhp is an obscene amount of power for a series production supercar, and it possesses the potential to overwhelm the chassis if not meticulously resolved to manage it. If Lamborghini has achieved the right balance – and their success with the Revuelto offers considerable reason for optimism – then we are on the cusp of witnessing a truly epic twin-test of approximately 1700bhp!
Alternatively, we could expand this to a staggering 2400bhp triple threat, including the McLaren 750S, which, by current standards, is now the ‘minnow’ of the class with a comparatively modest 740bhp. However, as previously mentioned, the McLaren brings a relatively petite 1389kg kerb weight to the table, resulting in a competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw, ergonomically sound nature, the crispness of its steering, and the deftness of its chassis undeniably set it apart when contrasted with the comparatively more detached Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications
Engine: V6, 2992cc, twin-turbo, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Power: 819bhp (combined) @ 8000rpm
Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry) (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Price: £250,000+
In a world of evolving automotive frontiers, the Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a testament to the thrilling possibilities of hybridization, a fusion of visceral performance and cutting-edge technology. If you’re captivated by this paradigm shift in supercar engineering and are ready to explore how this groundbreaking technology can redefine your driving aspirations, we invite you to connect with our team of specialists today.
Ferrari 296 GTB: The Electrifying Heartbeat of the Modern Supercar Era
For a decade now, the automotive landscape has been in constant flux, a thrilling, and at times, bewildering evolution. As an industry veteran with ten years immersed in the performance car segment, I’ve witnessed firsthand the seismic shifts that have redefined what a supercar is capable of. The arrival of hybrid powertrains, once a concept relegated to eco-conscious sedans, has now fundamentally reshaped the pinnacle of automotive engineering. Amidst this transformation, a particular Maranello creation stands out as a beacon of innovation and exhilarating performance: the Ferrari 296 GTB.
Even a couple of years after its debut, the Ferrari 296 GTB continues to command attention, its hybrid V6 powertrain still a marvel of engineering. This is especially true when you consider the rumblings of fierce competition on the horizon, most notably a 903bhp, 10,000rpm Lamborghini rival poised to enter the fray.
Ferrari’s iconic mid-engined supercar formula underwent a radical, almost unprecedented, departure with the introduction of the 296 GTB in 2022. Eschewing the celebrated, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 that had long defined its lineage, Ferrari instead opted for a groundbreaking twin-turbo V6 engine augmented by an electric motor. This bold move positioned the 296 GTB as a vanguard in a high-tier supercar segment still in the nascent stages of its hybrid transition.
At its initial launch, the 296 GTB’s primary adversary was the Lamborghini Huracán, a car celebrated for its naturally aspirated V10 symphony and raw, unfiltered charisma. While it may have paled in comparative power figures, the Huracán offered a visceral, analogue experience that resonated deeply with enthusiasts. Simultaneously, the ferocious McLaren 720S, with its potent twin-turbo V8, presented another formidable challenge. While the subsequent McLaren 750S represents an evolution of that established theme, leveraging its superior power-to-weight ratio, the impending 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid Temerario from Lamborghini is an unmistakable and direct riposte to Maranello’s 819bhp hybrid Berlinetta.
Make no mistake, the 296 GTB packs an electrifying punch. Its entirely new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, coupled with a potent electric motor, propels the rear wheels exclusively – a departure from the all-wheel-drive configuration of the SF90. This fusion results in a staggering 819bhp, a figure that truly shattered established supercar conventions upon its release.
It’s easy to become fixated on such an astonishing power output, and one might naturally ponder the trajectory of this power escalation – a question that the 296 GTB itself seems to be answering with its very existence, and perhaps prompting a similar pursuit from Lamborghini. Furthermore, the practical application of such prodigious performance on public roads is a discussion for another time.
What sets the 296 GTB apart is its historic significance. It marks the first V6-powered Ferrari road car (the exquisite 246 GT Dino, while V6-powered, never bore the Prancing Horse emblem in its era), the first to adopt a ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger configuration, and importantly, it’s a plug-in hybrid with an electric-only range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6 is ingeniously mounted low within a new aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase reduced by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, with occupants positioned slightly further forward.
The electric motor alone contributes a formidable 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque. The V6 engine, in isolation, delivers a breathtaking 654bhp and 546lb ft. The combined output reaches that headline-grabbing 819bhp figure. Ferrari, however, judiciously refrains from quoting a peak combined torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the combustion engine and electric motor. Nevertheless, it’s safe to assume the resultant torque is nothing short of colossal. In terms of weight savings, the V6 unit is approximately 30kg lighter than Ferrari’s V8 counterparts. This potent powerplant is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, while the long, rectangular battery pack resides discreetly behind the seats.
No Ferrari would be complete without an array of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems, and the 296 is no exception. Ferrari has developed an advanced six-axis sensor, dubbed the 6w-CDS, capable of precisely measuring acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z planes. This revolutionary system replaces conventional yaw sensors. In conjunction with a sensor mounted on the steering rack, it grants the car an intimate understanding of the driver’s intentions and the available grip at the tire contact patch. This data is then utilized by systems such as Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff to optimize cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability and driver confidence. Furthermore, it enables a novel system known as ABS-evo, which, in RACE mode and above, leverages the 296’s brake-by-wire technology to not only shorten braking distances but also enhance braking performance during trail braking into corners.
For the first time in its history, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics not to reduce drag, but to actively generate downforce. The manufacturer quotes a figure of 360kg at 155mph, with a significant portion, up to 100kg, being produced by the deployable rear wing.
The thermal management system is a masterclass in engineering. The front of the car houses two radiators dedicated to engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two additional condensers for battery thermal management. Hot air is expertly expelled from the underbody to prevent any interference with the airflow directed towards the intercoolers flanking the vehicle. The subtle apertures beneath the headlamps are precisely engineered to channel air for brake cooling. At the rear, a wing integrated into the roofline functions as a ‘virtual’ rear screen, guiding airflow towards the car’s tail as if guided by a physical surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid to airflow management, the rear diffuser design, and crucially, the underbody’s ground clearance to maximize the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
The 296 GTBs experienced on a circuit during the launch were all equipped with the Assetto Fiorano package. This optional upgrade replaces the standard dampers with advanced Multimatic units, akin to those found in GT racing cars. It also incorporates additional carbon fiber aerodynamic elements on the front end, contributing an extra 20kg of front downforce. Inside the cabin, further carbon fiber accents, such as the door panels, along with exterior carbon fiber components, contribute to an overall weight saving of 12kg. This figure increases to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. For those opting for the Fiorano package, an additional choice includes Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, replacing the standard Pilot Sport 4S offerings. Cars specified with the Fiorano package can also be adorned with an exterior graphics package, a nostalgic nod to the iconic 250LM of the 1960s.
Having had extensive exposure to the 296 ‘in the metal,’ its aesthetic appeal is undeniable. It presents a truly distinctive silhouette, a departure from anything else on the road, evoking the spirit of the 1960s 250LM even without the more polarizing graphics option.
Performance and Acceleration Dynamics
Initiating the drive is as simple as a double-press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss, followed by selecting first gear. The 296 defaults to Hybrid mode, meaning it will silently glide away on electric power alone, unless instructed otherwise via the intuitive haptic driver mode selectors located on the left side of the steering wheel boss. As long as throttle inputs are moderate, and the battery retains charge, the car will continue its journey purely on electric propulsion.
A dedicated EV mode can be manually engaged, irrespective of powertrain demands. Beyond this, drivers can select Performance or Qualifying modes. In both of these settings, the electric motor and combustion engine work in unison. Performance mode aims to maintain optimal battery charge while delivering exhilarating power, whereas Qualifying mode unleashes the full, unadulterated fury of the powertrain, with battery charge being a secondary consideration.
The serene experience of gliding through quiet villages is an unexpected delight. The damping sophistication ensures a surprisingly comfortable ride, making it an ideal companion for long-distance journeys. Even the ‘frunk’ offers a reasonably practical luggage compartment, a welcome addition absent in the SF90. However, the true essence of this machine, the experience that truly captivates, lies in unleashing both the engine and electric motor to their full potential.
The immediate sensation when applying generous throttle at low revs in a high gear is utterly astonishing. The 296 surges forward with an immediate, lag-free response that momentarily makes you question the very necessity of gears, such is its sheer potency. Yet, there are eight gears at your disposal, and an engine that eagerly spins to 8,500rpm. When you truly uncork the 296, the resulting experience is nothing short of spectacular.
The acceleration figures, which include a sub-3-second 0-62mph time and a top speed exceeding 200mph, paint a picture of sheer, unadulterated velocity. The rate of acceleration is of the ‘hold-on-tight/nervous laughter’ variety, bordering on the intense, yet undeniably addictive. This is a car of serious, almost frightening, speed. And the accompanying soundtrack is equally impressive, a symphony of turbocharger effects blending seamlessly with the melodic rasp of the V6.
Ride Dynamics and Handling Prowess
What truly elevates the 296 GTB is the exceptional responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s assertion that the car was engineered to be ‘fun to drive’ is not hyperbole; it’s a demonstrable reality. The handling is remarkably agile without ever feeling nervous or unpredictable. The steering, a hallmark of Ferrari engineering, is typically light and rapid, but crucially, it transmits a wealth of information about the road surface. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car’s inherent adjustability via throttle inputs is a constant source of wide grins.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a remarkable lack of inertia that encourages an intuitive, collaborative driving style, favoring small, precise inputs and reveling in the car’s accuracy and precision. Engaging CT Off mode allows for daring maneuvers, with the reassurance that an advanced electronic safety net remains in place. However, even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296’s inherent balance allows it to be playfully coaxed into oversteer in a manner that seems improbable for a car producing 819bhp.
On a racetrack, the 296 possesses the uncanny ability to make even the longest straights feel dramatically shorter. What becomes even more apparent is its surgical precision. While the power is readily available to break rear-end traction at multiple points around the circuit, the 296 is also exquisitely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. It quickly becomes apparent that precision in control inputs yields the greatest rewards. The astonishing turn-in accuracy and responsiveness dramatically shorten the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing the car into turns and allowing load to build, the 296 settles immediately, its Multimatic dampers and hyper-quick steering perfectly complementing the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more conventional sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 are phenomenal, offering an addictive and joyous experience lap after lap.
Interior Ambiance and Ergonomics
The cabin architecture will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90 Stradale, as the 296 borrows heavily from its larger sibling. The fully digital interface and its associated haptic switchgear can present a steep learning curve. These touch-sensitive controls are liberally applied to the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods flanking it.
Undeniably, the system is complex. To be fair, there is a significant amount of information to convey. However, the primary frustration lies in the occasional need for a second press for simple operations that didn’t register on the first attempt, or the uncertainty of whether a press has been successfully registered at all. Despite these ergonomic challenges, the interior undeniably exudes an air of specialness.
Expert Verdict: A Return to Form and a Benchmark for Hybrid Supercars
The consensus among seasoned road testers, notably in the context of the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, was overwhelmingly positive, with the 296 GTB and the McLaren Artura proving to be exceptionally closely matched, separated by mere fractions in scoring. Judges were equally divided, with three narrowly favoring the Ferrari and three leaning towards the McLaren.
Those who championed the 296 GTB, including myself, highlighted its spectacular nature: “Beautiful to look at, outrageously fast, amazingly exploitable, and so technically clever,” one tester enthused. “Its V6 demonstrates how to downsize while amplifying the drama, and it matches the Artura in terms of sheer control, yet feels more playful and indulgent.”
Another esteemed critic described it as “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” a sentiment echoed by many. “The hybrid system works exceptionally well and doesn’t alter the driving experience as much as I’d feared,” he continued. “Perhaps because we’ve already become accustomed to the torquey characteristics of the turbocharged V8s in the 488 and F8. The 296 is stonkingly quick, but it doesn’t rely solely on speed, thanks to the character of the V6, which produces a soundtrack that is always sweet and evolves with throttle opening.”
While the Ferrari’s hybridization received widespread praise for its seamless integration, a notable incident during the final evaluation saw the car stranded due to a depleted battery with no apparent means of reactivation. Ferrari had indeed cautioned about this possibility and provided guidance on preventative measures. However, it remains conceivable that an owner could encounter a similar predicament. As one reviewer astutely observed, “for the company that pioneered individual rear-wheel steering in its cars to be unable to engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent this scenario is a significant oversight.” Fortunately for the 296 GTB, this occurred after all cars had been scored.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering divided opinion, and the brake feel, while competent, didn’t quite match the very best in class. The technological interface, as previously noted, was widely criticized for its complexity. Nevertheless, the overall allure of the 296 GTB was undeniable. “I initially thought I wouldn’t appreciate the Fezza that much – too complex, rather gratuitous points of difference,” admitted one tester, “but I ended up somewhat bewitched: its uncanny ability to change direction; its astonishing damping and looney-tunes levels of grip; the linearity of its seemingly endless power…”
The sentiment that the 296 represents a significant return to form for Ferrari, especially after the SF90 left many feeling somewhat underwhelmed, was a recurring theme. “The 296 is far more successful because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels much more natural and far less intrusive,” stated one reviewer. This view was corroborated by another who asserted, “Ferrari has learned so much from the SF90, absorbed those lessons, and distilled them into a series production model that stands as one of its absolute finest.”
Price Point and Competitive Landscape
When a vehicle is as densely packed with cutting-edge technology as the 296 GTB, there’s always an inherent risk that the sum of its parts might not quite equal the intended whole. This was a sentiment we experienced with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power output, could be somewhat unnerving in its challenging driving characteristics.
However, the 296 GTB is a distinctly different proposition. As evidenced by its strong performance in the 2022 evo Car of the Year competition, where it secured joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura, it possesses a much more organic feel. Its potent blend of raw power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect chord, effectively redefining the capabilities and expectations of a supercar in the approximate £250,000 price bracket. Rumors of a ‘Versione Speciale’ variant, a code name for an even more potent and intense iteration, are circulating, and the hope is that the standard 296’s remarkably natural driving feel will be preserved.
It is this intrinsic character of the 296 GTB that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. An output exceeding 900bhp is an obscene amount of power for a series production supercar, and it possesses the potential to overwhelm the chassis if not meticulously resolved to manage it. If Lamborghini has achieved the right balance – and their success with the Revuelto offers considerable reason for optimism – then we are on the cusp of witnessing a truly epic twin-test of approximately 1700bhp!
Alternatively, we could expand this to a staggering 2400bhp triple threat, including the McLaren 750S, which, by current standards, is now the ‘minnow’ of the class with a comparatively modest 740bhp. However, as previously mentioned, the McLaren brings a relatively petite 1389kg kerb weight to the table, resulting in a competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw, ergonomically sound nature, the crispness of its steering, and the deftness of its chassis undeniably set it apart when contrasted with the comparatively more detached Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications
Engine: V6, 2992cc, twin-turbo, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Power: 819bhp (combined) @ 8000rpm
Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry) (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Price: £250,000+
In a world of evolving automotive frontiers, the Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a testament to the thrilling possibilities of hybridization, a fusion of visceral performance and cutting-edge technology. If you’re captivated by this paradigm shift in supercar engineering and are ready to explore how this groundbreaking technology can redefine your driving aspirations, we invite you to connect with our team of specialists today.