OMG Big Shocking! Sidwell Watching Lulu? This GH Twist Changes Everything!
Ferrari 296 GTB: Redefining Supercar Dynamics in the Age of Hybridization
For a decade now, I’ve navigated the exhilarating, often bewildering, landscape of high-performance automobiles. From the raw, visceral thrill of naturally aspirated engines to the nuanced complexities of forced induction and electrification, I’ve seen automotive evolution unfold firsthand. In this dynamic arena, few marques command as much reverence and anticipation as Ferrari. Their latest masterpiece, the Ferrari 296 GTB, represents a bold leap forward, a testament to their relentless pursuit of innovation, and a clear benchmark for its contemporaries, most notably the emerging Lamborghini Temerario.
The automotive world, particularly the supercar segment, has been on a seismic shift. The very definition of a “supercar” is being rewritten with the integration of hybrid powertrains. While some manufacturers have approached this transition with a degree of caution, Ferrari, with the Ferrari 296 GTB, has dived headfirst, ushering in a new era. Launched in 2022, this machine shattered established norms by trading its acclaimed twin-turbo V8 for a groundbreaking twin-turbocharged V6, augmented by an electric motor. This bold move positioned the Ferrari 296 GTB at the vanguard of a segment still grappling with the full embrace of hybrid performance.
In its initial years, the Ferrari 296 GTB found its most traditional adversary in the Lamborghini Huracán, a machine celebrated for its sonorous, naturally aspirated V10. The Huracán, while perhaps trailing in sheer horsepower compared to the electrified Ferrari, exuded an undeniable charisma, a symphony of V10 melody that captivated enthusiasts. However, the landscape has shifted dramatically. The McLaren 720S, a formidable twin-turbo V8 contender, represented a different, albeit equally potent, challenge. Now, with the advent of the Lamborghini Temerario – a 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid behemoth – Lamborghini has thrown down a direct gauntlet to Maranello’s 819bhp electrified berlinetta. The Ferrari 296 GTB has genuinely ignited a new horsepower war.
The sheer potency of the Ferrari 296 GTB is, frankly, staggering. Its all-new 120-degree, twin-turbocharged V6 engine, working in concert with an electric motor, propels the rear wheels with an astonishing combined output of 819bhp. Unlike its more powerful stablemate, the SF90, which utilizes all-wheel drive, the Ferrari 296 GTB keeps its focus on rear-wheel drive dynamics, a choice that underscores its commitment to pure driving engagement. The question of where this relentless pursuit of power will ultimately lead is a topic for another discussion, but the immediate impact of the Ferrari 296 GTB is undeniable.
This is more than just a powerful car; it’s a technological marvel. The Ferrari 296 GTB proudly holds the distinction of being the first V6-powered Ferrari road car, a lineage that respectfully acknowledges the iconic, albeit unconsecrated, 246 GT Dino. It also pioneers Ferrari’s “hot-vee” turbocharger configuration, where the turbos are nestled within the engine’s V-angle, a design that dramatically improves packaging and responsiveness. As a plug-in hybrid, it offers a practical, albeit modest, all-electric range of approximately 15 miles, allowing for silent, emission-free urban traversal. The compact V6 engine is mounted low within a bespoke aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase 50mm shorter than its V8 predecessors, with occupants positioned slightly further forward, enhancing the car’s compact and agile feel.
The electric motor itself contributes a potent 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 alone unleashes a formidable 654bhp and 546lb ft. Ferrari, in their characteristic meticulousness, refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure. This is likely due to the intricate interplay between the V6 and the electric motor, a dance of power delivery that is not easily distilled into a single number. However, it’s safe to assume that the combined torque is, to put it mildly, “considerable.” Crucially, this V6 powerplant is a full 30kg lighter than Ferrari’s V8 engines, a significant saving that contributes to the car’s nimble character. This powertrain is mated to a lightning-fast eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the compact, oblong battery pack is strategically located behind the seats, contributing to the car’s ideal weight distribution.
No Ferrari would be complete without a sophisticated suite of electronic chassis control systems, and the Ferrari 296 GTB is no exception. At its heart lies the innovative six-axis sensor, dubbed 6w-CDS (six-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This advanced system meticulously measures acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z planes. By replacing conventional yaw sensors and working in conjunction with a sensor on the steering rack, the 6w-CDS provides the car with an unprecedented understanding of driver inputs and available grip at the tire contact patch. This information is then utilized by systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-diff to optimize cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability.
Furthermore, the 6w-CDS enables the introduction of ABS-evo, a revolutionary braking system that, in RACE mode and above, leverages the 296’s brake-by-wire technology. This sophisticated system not only shortens braking distances but also enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers, allowing for even more precise corner entry. For the first time in a road-going Ferrari, active aerodynamics are employed not to reduce drag, but to increase downforce. The Ferrari 296 GTB generates an impressive 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a significant portion of this achieved through the active rear wing, which deploys from the rear of the car.
The aerodynamic efficiency extends to the car’s cooling systems. Twin radiators in the front manage engine and gearbox temperatures, while two additional condensers are dedicated to cooling the battery. Hot air is strategically expelled underneath the car, ensuring it doesn’t disrupt the flow of cool air directed to the intercoolers along the flanks. Smaller apertures below the headlamps are dedicated to brake cooling, and an integrated wing at the roofline creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, efficiently channeling air to the rear of the car. The majority of the Ferrari 296 GTB’s downforce, however, is generated from beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid to the underbody design, including the diffuser and the ground clearance, to maximize the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
During our initial track evaluations, the Ferrari 296 GTB models were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-oriented upgrade replaces the standard dampers with advanced Multimatic units, derived from Ferrari’s GT racing programs, 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 within the cabin, such as the door panels, and on the exterior, contributing to a further weight saving of 12kg. Opting for the Lexan rear engine cover shaves off an additional 3kg. For those seeking ultimate track performance, the Assetto Fiorano package can be further enhanced with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, a more aggressive choice than the standard Pilot Sport 4S. The Assetto Fiorano variants also offer an optional exterior graphics package, inspired by the iconic 250LM of the 1960s, a subtle nod to Ferrari’s illustrious racing heritage.
Visually, the Ferrari 296 GTB is a triumph. Having spent considerable time admiring it “in the metal,” I can attest to its breathtaking beauty. It possesses a unique aesthetic, unlike anything else on the road, subtly evoking the spirit of the 250LM, even without the more ostentatious graphic treatments.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: A Hybrid Revolution
Initiating forward motion in the Ferrari 296 GTB is as simple as a double-press of the starter button on the steering wheel boss, followed by selecting first gear. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing for silent departures on electric power alone, unless the driver consciously selects otherwise via the intuitive haptic ‘buttons’ on the steering wheel. As long as throttle inputs remain gentle and the battery retains sufficient charge, the Ferrari 296 GTB will glide through urban environments purely on electric power. This capability offers an unexpected serenity, a stark contrast to the roar one typically associates with a Ferrari. The damping system is remarkably sophisticated, providing a surprisingly comfortable ride, making it a pleasant companion for longer journeys. Even the ‘frunk’ offers a respectable amount of luggage space, a practical advantage over the SF90.
But the true magic, the raison d’être of a Ferrari supercar, lies in the unleashed potential of its hybrid powertrain. When you truly plant the throttle, even at low revs in a high gear, the Ferrari 296 GTB surges forward with an immediate, ferocious urgency. There is absolutely no hint of turbo lag; the electric motor fills any perceived void, creating an unbroken, linear surge of acceleration that momentarily makes you question the very need for gear changes. However, with eight gears to exploit and an engine that enthusiastically revs to 8,500rpm, the full-throttle experience is nothing short of electrifying.
The acceleration figures speak for themselves: 0-62mph in a blistering 2.9 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 205mph. The sheer rate of acceleration is intense, bordering on overwhelming, inducing a mixture of nervous laughter and sheer exhilaration. It’s a sensation that is both terrifying and profoundly addictive. And the soundtrack? It’s a captivating blend of synthesized turbocharger effects overlaid with the sonorous, tuneful rasp of the V6. It’s a modern aural masterpiece.
What truly elevates the Ferrari 296 GTB is its chassis responsiveness. Ferrari’s claims of making this car “fun to drive” are not mere marketing hyperbole; they are a fundamental truth. The Ferrari 296 GTB feels incredibly agile without ever becoming nervous or unpredictable. The steering, a Ferrari hallmark, is typically light and razor-sharp, but crucially, it’s also imbued with a remarkable level of feedback, allowing the driver to feel exactly what the front tires are doing. Despite the immense grip levels, the car remains remarkably throttle-adjustable, enabling a playful driving style that is guaranteed to elicit a broad smile.
It feels significantly lighter than its quoted dry weight of 1470kg suggests. There’s an inherent lack of inertia throughout the entire vehicle, encouraging the driver to work with the car, making minute inputs and reveling in its uncanny accuracy and precision. Engaging CT Off mode allows for daring exploits, providing the reassurance that a highly intelligent electronic guardian is still watching over you. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the Ferrari 296 GTB possesses such a natural, inherent balance that it can be playfully coaxed into oversteer in a manner one would scarcely believe possible for a car producing 819bhp.
On the racetrack, the Ferrari 296 GTB has the remarkable ability to make even the longest start-finish straight feel remarkably short. Its prowess as a scalpel-sharp instrument becomes immediately apparent. While the power is more than sufficient to break rear traction at numerous points around the lap, the Ferrari 296 GTB is also acutely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. Drivers quickly learn that precision in control inputs leads to the greatest rewards. The astonishing turn-in accuracy and immediate response dramatically shorten the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing the car into turns and gradually building load, the Ferrari 296 GTB, equipped with its Multimatic dampers and the hyper-quick steering of the Assetto Fiorano setup, adopts its line instantaneously. Even for drivers accustomed to more conventional sports cars, the speed, precision, and agility of the Ferrari 296 GTB are simply phenomenal and a joyous experience, lap after lap.
Interior and Technology: A Digital Frontier
The cabin architecture of the Ferrari 296 GTB will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90. This familiarity, however, extends to some of the ergonomic challenges. The purely digital interface, coupled with the haptic switchgear liberally applied to the steering wheel and surrounding pods, presents a steep learning curve. It is undeniably complex, a consequence, perhaps, of the vast amount of information and functionality Ferrari aims to convey. The primary frustration lies in the occasional need for a second press to register an input, or the uncertainty of whether a command has been successfully executed. Despite these operational quirks, the interior undeniably exudes a special, bespoke atmosphere.
Verdict: A Triumph of Hybrid Integration
In the competitive landscape of performance hybrid supercars, the Ferrari 296 GTB has undeniably established itself as a dominant force. In the prestigious evo Car of the Year 2022 awards, it narrowly missed out on outright victory, tying for third place with the McLaren Artura. The judges were split, with the Ferrari 296 GTB and the Artura demonstrating exceptional qualities that resonated deeply with different drivers.
Those who favored the Ferrari 296 GTB lauded its spectacular performance, breathtaking aesthetics, and remarkable technical sophistication. Jethro Bovingdon eloquently described it as “outrageously fast, amazingly exploitable, and so technically clever.” He further noted how the V6 engine demonstrated to McLaren how to downsize while simultaneously amplifying the drama. The Ferrari 296 GTB was seen to match the Artura in sheer control but possess a more playful and indulgent character.
Dickie Meaden echoed sentiments of its stunning beauty, declaring it the “first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” a sentiment shared by many. He praised the seamless integration of the hybrid system, noting that it enhanced, rather than detracted from, the driving experience, likely due to the familiarity with the torquey nature of turbocharged V8s. The Ferrari 296 GTB’s stonking acceleration, he explained, was complemented by the characterful V6, which delivered a consistently sweet soundtrack that evolved with throttle application.
The hybrid system’s seamless integration was widely celebrated. However, a notable incident during the awards left one car stranded due to a depleted battery, highlighting a potential oversight in fail-safe mechanisms. While Ferrari had provided guidance on preventing such scenarios, the lack of a simple fallback system was a point of criticism. Fortunately, this occurred after the scoring was completed, not impacting the final result.
Despite some divisive opinions on Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering and brake feel, which didn’t quite match the absolute best in class, and the complex tech interface, the Ferrari 296 GTB proved to be an irresistibly seductive proposition. Vivian Simmonds, initially skeptical of its perceived complexity, found himself “bewitched” by its uncanny directional changes, astonishing damping, immense grip levels, and the seemingly unending linearity of its power delivery.
Peter Tomalin, reflecting on the evo Car of the Year 2022, stated that the Ferrari 296 GTB represented a “real return to form” for Ferrari, a significant improvement over the SF90, which had left them feeling somewhat cold. He concluded that the Ferrari 296 GTB’s technical sophistication and the natural integration of its hybrid technology felt far more organic and less intrusive, distilling Ferrari’s learnings from the SF90 into a series production model that stood as one of their finest achievements.
Price and Rivals: A New Supercar Paradigm
The inherent risk with such technologically advanced vehicles is that they can sometimes become less than the sum of their parts. This was a sentiment echoed with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, could be unnerving in its less intuitive driving characteristics.
However, the Ferrari 296 GTB charts a different course. Its organic feel, combined with a potent blend of power and engaging dynamics, strikes a perfect balance, redefining what a supercar in the £250,000-plus bracket can be. Rumors of a more potent Versione Speciale variant, promising even greater power and intensity, are circulating, and the hope is that the standard Ferrari 296 GTB’s remarkably natural driving feel will be retained.
It is this very aspect – the inherent naturalness and driving engagement – that we hope Lamborghini has meticulously honed in their upcoming Lamborghini Temerario hybrid supercar. Over 900bhp is an obscene amount of power for any series production supercar, and it has the potential to overwhelm if the supporting elements of the car aren’t perfectly resolved. If Lamborghini has successfully achieved this, as evidenced by their prowess with the Revuelto, then we are poised for an epic twin test between these titans.
Alternatively, a triple threat could emerge with the McLaren 750S, now seemingly the “minnow” of this elite group with a mere 740bhp. However, the McLaren’s trump card lies in its relatively svelte 1389kg kerb weight, offering a competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw engagement, ergonomic perfection, razor-sharp steering, and sublime chassis balance continue to set it apart, offering a more direct and communicative experience compared to the comparatively more insulated Ferrari 296 GTB.
In conclusion, the Ferrari 296 GTB is not just a supercar; it’s a statement. It signifies Ferrari’s mastery of hybrid technology, seamlessly blending electrifying performance with an engaging and intuitive driving experience. If you’re a discerning automotive enthusiast seeking the pinnacle of current supercar engineering, a test drive of the Ferrari 296 GTB is an absolute imperative. Explore the future of performance – visit your nearest Ferrari dealer today to arrange a private viewing and experience the revolution firsthand.
Ferrari 296 GTB: Redefining Supercar Dynamics in the Age of Hybridization
For a decade now, I’ve navigated the exhilarating, often bewildering, landscape of high-performance automobiles. From the raw, visceral thrill of naturally aspirated engines to the nuanced complexities of forced induction and electrification, I’ve seen automotive evolution unfold firsthand. In this dynamic arena, few marques command as much reverence and anticipation as Ferrari. Their latest masterpiece, the Ferrari 296 GTB, represents a bold leap forward, a testament to their relentless pursuit of innovation, and a clear benchmark for its contemporaries, most notably the emerging Lamborghini Temerario.
The automotive world, particularly the supercar segment, has been on a seismic shift. The very definition of a “supercar” is being rewritten with the integration of hybrid powertrains. While some manufacturers have approached this transition with a degree of caution, Ferrari, with the Ferrari 296 GTB, has dived headfirst, ushering in a new era. Launched in 2022, this machine shattered established norms by trading its acclaimed twin-turbo V8 for a groundbreaking twin-turbocharged V6, augmented by an electric motor. This bold move positioned the Ferrari 296 GTB at the vanguard of a segment still grappling with the full embrace of hybrid performance.
In its initial years, the Ferrari 296 GTB found its most traditional adversary in the Lamborghini Huracán, a machine celebrated for its sonorous, naturally aspirated V10. The Huracán, while perhaps trailing in sheer horsepower compared to the electrified Ferrari, exuded an undeniable charisma, a symphony of V10 melody that captivated enthusiasts. However, the landscape has shifted dramatically. The McLaren 720S, a formidable twin-turbo V8 contender, represented a different, albeit equally potent, challenge. Now, with the advent of the Lamborghini Temerario – a 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid behemoth – Lamborghini has thrown down a direct gauntlet to Maranello’s 819bhp electrified berlinetta. The Ferrari 296 GTB has genuinely ignited a new horsepower war.
The sheer potency of the Ferrari 296 GTB is, frankly, staggering. Its all-new 120-degree, twin-turbocharged V6 engine, working in concert with an electric motor, propels the rear wheels with an astonishing combined output of 819bhp. Unlike its more powerful stablemate, the SF90, which utilizes all-wheel drive, the Ferrari 296 GTB keeps its focus on rear-wheel drive dynamics, a choice that underscores its commitment to pure driving engagement. The question of where this relentless pursuit of power will ultimately lead is a topic for another discussion, but the immediate impact of the Ferrari 296 GTB is undeniable.
This is more than just a powerful car; it’s a technological marvel. The Ferrari 296 GTB proudly holds the distinction of being the first V6-powered Ferrari road car, a lineage that respectfully acknowledges the iconic, albeit unconsecrated, 246 GT Dino. It also pioneers Ferrari’s “hot-vee” turbocharger configuration, where the turbos are nestled within the engine’s V-angle, a design that dramatically improves packaging and responsiveness. As a plug-in hybrid, it offers a practical, albeit modest, all-electric range of approximately 15 miles, allowing for silent, emission-free urban traversal. The compact V6 engine is mounted low within a bespoke aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase 50mm shorter than its V8 predecessors, with occupants positioned slightly further forward, enhancing the car’s compact and agile feel.
The electric motor itself contributes a potent 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 alone unleashes a formidable 654bhp and 546lb ft. Ferrari, in their characteristic meticulousness, refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure. This is likely due to the intricate interplay between the V6 and the electric motor, a dance of power delivery that is not easily distilled into a single number. However, it’s safe to assume that the combined torque is, to put it mildly, “considerable.” Crucially, this V6 powerplant is a full 30kg lighter than Ferrari’s V8 engines, a significant saving that contributes to the car’s nimble character. This powertrain is mated to a lightning-fast eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the compact, oblong battery pack is strategically located behind the seats, contributing to the car’s ideal weight distribution.
No Ferrari would be complete without a sophisticated suite of electronic chassis control systems, and the Ferrari 296 GTB is no exception. At its heart lies the innovative six-axis sensor, dubbed 6w-CDS (six-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This advanced system meticulously measures acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z planes. By replacing conventional yaw sensors and working in conjunction with a sensor on the steering rack, the 6w-CDS provides the car with an unprecedented understanding of driver inputs and available grip at the tire contact patch. This information is then utilized by systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-diff to optimize cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability.
Furthermore, the 6w-CDS enables the introduction of ABS-evo, a revolutionary braking system that, in RACE mode and above, leverages the 296’s brake-by-wire technology. This sophisticated system not only shortens braking distances but also enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers, allowing for even more precise corner entry. For the first time in a road-going Ferrari, active aerodynamics are employed not to reduce drag, but to increase downforce. The Ferrari 296 GTB generates an impressive 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a significant portion of this achieved through the active rear wing, which deploys from the rear of the car.
The aerodynamic efficiency extends to the car’s cooling systems. Twin radiators in the front manage engine and gearbox temperatures, while two additional condensers are dedicated to cooling the battery. Hot air is strategically expelled underneath the car, ensuring it doesn’t disrupt the flow of cool air directed to the intercoolers along the flanks. Smaller apertures below the headlamps are dedicated to brake cooling, and an integrated wing at the roofline creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, efficiently channeling air to the rear of the car. The majority of the Ferrari 296 GTB’s downforce, however, is generated from beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid to the underbody design, including the diffuser and the ground clearance, to maximize the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
During our initial track evaluations, the Ferrari 296 GTB models were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-oriented upgrade replaces the standard dampers with advanced Multimatic units, derived from Ferrari’s GT racing programs, 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 within the cabin, such as the door panels, and on the exterior, contributing to a further weight saving of 12kg. Opting for the Lexan rear engine cover shaves off an additional 3kg. For those seeking ultimate track performance, the Assetto Fiorano package can be further enhanced with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, a more aggressive choice than the standard Pilot Sport 4S. The Assetto Fiorano variants also offer an optional exterior graphics package, inspired by the iconic 250LM of the 1960s, a subtle nod to Ferrari’s illustrious racing heritage.
Visually, the Ferrari 296 GTB is a triumph. Having spent considerable time admiring it “in the metal,” I can attest to its breathtaking beauty. It possesses a unique aesthetic, unlike anything else on the road, subtly evoking the spirit of the 250LM, even without the more ostentatious graphic treatments.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: A Hybrid Revolution
Initiating forward motion in the Ferrari 296 GTB is as simple as a double-press of the starter button on the steering wheel boss, followed by selecting first gear. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing for silent departures on electric power alone, unless the driver consciously selects otherwise via the intuitive haptic ‘buttons’ on the steering wheel. As long as throttle inputs remain gentle and the battery retains sufficient charge, the Ferrari 296 GTB will glide through urban environments purely on electric power. This capability offers an unexpected serenity, a stark contrast to the roar one typically associates with a Ferrari. The damping system is remarkably sophisticated, providing a surprisingly comfortable ride, making it a pleasant companion for longer journeys. Even the ‘frunk’ offers a respectable amount of luggage space, a practical advantage over the SF90.
But the true magic, the raison d’être of a Ferrari supercar, lies in the unleashed potential of its hybrid powertrain. When you truly plant the throttle, even at low revs in a high gear, the Ferrari 296 GTB surges forward with an immediate, ferocious urgency. There is absolutely no hint of turbo lag; the electric motor fills any perceived void, creating an unbroken, linear surge of acceleration that momentarily makes you question the very need for gear changes. However, with eight gears to exploit and an engine that enthusiastically revs to 8,500rpm, the full-throttle experience is nothing short of electrifying.
The acceleration figures speak for themselves: 0-62mph in a blistering 2.9 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 205mph. The sheer rate of acceleration is intense, bordering on overwhelming, inducing a mixture of nervous laughter and sheer exhilaration. It’s a sensation that is both terrifying and profoundly addictive. And the soundtrack? It’s a captivating blend of synthesized turbocharger effects overlaid with the sonorous, tuneful rasp of the V6. It’s a modern aural masterpiece.
What truly elevates the Ferrari 296 GTB is its chassis responsiveness. Ferrari’s claims of making this car “fun to drive” are not mere marketing hyperbole; they are a fundamental truth. The Ferrari 296 GTB feels incredibly agile without ever becoming nervous or unpredictable. The steering, a Ferrari hallmark, is typically light and razor-sharp, but crucially, it’s also imbued with a remarkable level of feedback, allowing the driver to feel exactly what the front tires are doing. Despite the immense grip levels, the car remains remarkably throttle-adjustable, enabling a playful driving style that is guaranteed to elicit a broad smile.
It feels significantly lighter than its quoted dry weight of 1470kg suggests. There’s an inherent lack of inertia throughout the entire vehicle, encouraging the driver to work with the car, making minute inputs and reveling in its uncanny accuracy and precision. Engaging CT Off mode allows for daring exploits, providing the reassurance that a highly intelligent electronic guardian is still watching over you. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the Ferrari 296 GTB possesses such a natural, inherent balance that it can be playfully coaxed into oversteer in a manner one would scarcely believe possible for a car producing 819bhp.
On the racetrack, the Ferrari 296 GTB has the remarkable ability to make even the longest start-finish straight feel remarkably short. Its prowess as a scalpel-sharp instrument becomes immediately apparent. While the power is more than sufficient to break rear traction at numerous points around the lap, the Ferrari 296 GTB is also acutely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. Drivers quickly learn that precision in control inputs leads to the greatest rewards. The astonishing turn-in accuracy and immediate response dramatically shorten the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing the car into turns and gradually building load, the Ferrari 296 GTB, equipped with its Multimatic dampers and the hyper-quick steering of the Assetto Fiorano setup, adopts its line instantaneously. Even for drivers accustomed to more conventional sports cars, the speed, precision, and agility of the Ferrari 296 GTB are simply phenomenal and a joyous experience, lap after lap.
Interior and Technology: A Digital Frontier
The cabin architecture of the Ferrari 296 GTB will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90. This familiarity, however, extends to some of the ergonomic challenges. The purely digital interface, coupled with the haptic switchgear liberally applied to the steering wheel and surrounding pods, presents a steep learning curve. It is undeniably complex, a consequence, perhaps, of the vast amount of information and functionality Ferrari aims to convey. The primary frustration lies in the occasional need for a second press to register an input, or the uncertainty of whether a command has been successfully executed. Despite these operational quirks, the interior undeniably exudes a special, bespoke atmosphere.
Verdict: A Triumph of Hybrid Integration
In the competitive landscape of performance hybrid supercars, the Ferrari 296 GTB has undeniably established itself as a dominant force. In the prestigious evo Car of the Year 2022 awards, it narrowly missed out on outright victory, tying for third place with the McLaren Artura. The judges were split, with the Ferrari 296 GTB and the Artura demonstrating exceptional qualities that resonated deeply with different drivers.
Those who favored the Ferrari 296 GTB lauded its spectacular performance, breathtaking aesthetics, and remarkable technical sophistication. Jethro Bovingdon eloquently described it as “outrageously fast, amazingly exploitable, and so technically clever.” He further noted how the V6 engine demonstrated to McLaren how to downsize while simultaneously amplifying the drama. The Ferrari 296 GTB was seen to match the Artura in sheer control but possess a more playful and indulgent character.
Dickie Meaden echoed sentiments of its stunning beauty, declaring it the “first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” a sentiment shared by many. He praised the seamless integration of the hybrid system, noting that it enhanced, rather than detracted from, the driving experience, likely due to the familiarity with the torquey nature of turbocharged V8s. The Ferrari 296 GTB’s stonking acceleration, he explained, was complemented by the characterful V6, which delivered a consistently sweet soundtrack that evolved with throttle application.
The hybrid system’s seamless integration was widely celebrated. However, a notable incident during the awards left one car stranded due to a depleted battery, highlighting a potential oversight in fail-safe mechanisms. While Ferrari had provided guidance on preventing such scenarios, the lack of a simple fallback system was a point of criticism. Fortunately, this occurred after the scoring was completed, not impacting the final result.
Despite some divisive opinions on Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering and brake feel, which didn’t quite match the absolute best in class, and the complex tech interface, the Ferrari 296 GTB proved to be an irresistibly seductive proposition. Vivian Simmonds, initially skeptical of its perceived complexity, found himself “bewitched” by its uncanny directional changes, astonishing damping, immense grip levels, and the seemingly unending linearity of its power delivery.
Peter Tomalin, reflecting on the evo Car of the Year 2022, stated that the Ferrari 296 GTB represented a “real return to form” for Ferrari, a significant improvement over the SF90, which had left them feeling somewhat cold. He concluded that the Ferrari 296 GTB’s technical sophistication and the natural integration of its hybrid technology felt far more organic and less intrusive, distilling Ferrari’s learnings from the SF90 into a series production model that stood as one of their finest achievements.
Price and Rivals: A New Supercar Paradigm
The inherent risk with such technologically advanced vehicles is that they can sometimes become less than the sum of their parts. This was a sentiment echoed with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, could be unnerving in its less intuitive driving characteristics.
However, the Ferrari 296 GTB charts a different course. Its organic feel, combined with a potent blend of power and engaging dynamics, strikes a perfect balance, redefining what a supercar in the £250,000-plus bracket can be. Rumors of a more potent Versione Speciale variant, promising even greater power and intensity, are circulating, and the hope is that the standard Ferrari 296 GTB’s remarkably natural driving feel will be retained.
It is this very aspect – the inherent naturalness and driving engagement – that we hope Lamborghini has meticulously honed in their upcoming Lamborghini Temerario hybrid supercar. Over 900bhp is an obscene amount of power for any series production supercar, and it has the potential to overwhelm if the supporting elements of the car aren’t perfectly resolved. If Lamborghini has successfully achieved this, as evidenced by their prowess with the Revuelto, then we are poised for an epic twin test between these titans.
Alternatively, a triple threat could emerge with the McLaren 750S, now seemingly the “minnow” of this elite group with a mere 740bhp. However, the McLaren’s trump card lies in its relatively svelte 1389kg kerb weight, offering a competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw engagement, ergonomic perfection, razor-sharp steering, and sublime chassis balance continue to set it apart, offering a more direct and communicative experience compared to the comparatively more insulated Ferrari 296 GTB.
In conclusion, the Ferrari 296 GTB is not just a supercar; it’s a statement. It signifies Ferrari’s mastery of hybrid technology, seamlessly blending electrifying performance with an engaging and intuitive driving experience. If you’re a discerning automotive enthusiast seeking the pinnacle of current supercar engineering, a test drive of the Ferrari 296 GTB is an absolute imperative. Explore the future of performance – visit your nearest Ferrari dealer today to arrange a private viewing and experience the revolution firsthand.