The Ferrari 296 GTB: A Hybrid Masterpiece Challenging Supercar Conventions
By [Your Expert Name/Industry Title], with a decade at the forefront of automotive engineering and performance analysis.
For
ten years, I’ve been immersed in the evolving landscape of high-performance automobiles. I’ve witnessed the relentless pursuit of power, the delicate dance between raw aggression and sophisticated control, and the seismic shifts brought about by new technologies. Few vehicles embody this transition as profoundly as the Ferrari 296 GTB. It’s a car that doesn’t just participate in the supercar conversation; it fundamentally redefines it. While some may have initially questioned the departure from Ferrari’s iconic V8 lineage, the 296 GTB, even with the specter of a 10,000rpm, 903bhp Lamborghini rival on the horizon, remains a truly mind-blowing achievement.
The supercar segment, long dominated by thunderous V8s and soulful V10s, is undergoing a transformation. The arrival of the 296 GTB in 2022 marked an unprecedented shift for Ferrari’s mid-engined staple. Discarding the celebrated twin-turbo V8 in favor of an all-new, electrified twin-turbo V6, the 296 GTB boldly embraced a hybrid future, leading a segment that is still in the nascent stages of this profound technological evolution. Its introduction immediately set a new benchmark, presenting a compelling case for the efficacy and exhilaration of hybrid powertrains in the supercar arena.
In its initial unveiling, the 296 GTB faced a traditional adversary in the Lamborghini Huracán, with its naturally aspirated V10. While lower in comparative power, the Huracán offered an intoxicating blend of V10 charisma and raw auditory drama, a delightful companion in its prime. It also contended with the formidable McLaren 720S, a car that championed its twin-turbo V8 and an unwavering focus on power-to-weight supremacy. Now, with the McLaren 750S representing an evolution of that theme, the true gauntlet has been thrown down. The 903bhp, 10,000rpm twin-turbo V8 hybrid behemoth, the Lamborghini Temerario, emerges as a direct and audacious riposte to Maranello’s 819bhp electrified Berlinetta. The 296 GTB, therefore, isn’t just a car; it’s a statement, a technological marvel designed to stand tall against the fiercest competition, even as that competition escalates dramatically.
Make no mistake, the 296 GTB packs genuine, earth-shattering firepower. Its entirely new 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, artfully blended with an electric motor, channels its prodigious output exclusively to the rear wheels – a departure from the all-wheel-drive madness of the SF90. The result? A staggering 819bhp that shattered preconceptions of what a hybrid supercar could be. This isn’t merely an incremental upgrade; it’s a bold leap forward, pushing the boundaries of performance and engineering. It’s easy to be captivated by such an awe-inspiring power figure, and one can’t help but ponder the ultimate limits of this power escalation – and indeed, where one might even fully deploy such velocity in the real world. But that, as they say, is a story for another day.
What sets the 296 GTB apart is its groundbreaking status. It stands as the first V6-powered Ferrari road car to bear the Prancing Horse emblem (the charming 246 GT Dino, while exquisite, never officially wore the badge in its era). It’s also the first to feature a ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger installation, a configuration that optimizes turbocharger placement for improved response and packaging. Furthermore, its plug-in hybrid nature grants it an impressive all-electric range of approximately 15 miles, offering a glimpse into a more sustainable future for hypercars. The compact V6 is nestled low within a newly engineered aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase that’s been meticulously reduced by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors. This dimensional refinement contributes to a slightly more forward occupant position, enhancing the car’s dynamic posture.
The electric motor itself is a potent unit, contributing a substantial 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque. The V6, on its own, unleashes a breathtaking 654bhp and 546lb ft. Combined, these forces culminate in that headline-grabbing 819bhp. Ferrari, however, remains coy about the precise combined peak torque figure. This reticence likely stems from the complex interplay between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor, where peak outputs may not always synchronize perfectly. Nevertheless, it’s safe to infer that the total torque generated is nothing short of immense, providing relentless thrust. In terms of weight savings, the V6 unit itself is approximately 30kg lighter than a comparable Ferrari V8. This newfound efficiency is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, a marvel of modern engineering. The battery pack, a sleek, elongated structure, is discreetly housed behind the seats, a testament to Ferrari’s mastery of packaging.
It would be an oversight not to mention the suite of sophisticated electronic chassis systems that are the hallmark of any modern Ferrari. For the 296 GTB, Ferrari has introduced a groundbreaking six-axis sensor known as 6w-CDS. This advanced system meticulously measures acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z planes. It effectively supersedes traditional yaw sensors and, in conjunction with a sensor integrated into the steering rack, provides the car with an unparalleled understanding of driver inputs and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patches. This intricate data flow empowers other critical systems, such as the renowned Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, to orchestrate the delicate balance between maximizing cornering speeds and ensuring unwavering stability and driver confidence. This integrated approach also facilitates the introduction of ABS-evo, a system deployed in RACE mode and above. Utilizing the 296’s brake-by-wire technology, ABS-evo not only shortens braking distances but also significantly enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers into corners, a crucial element for precision driving.
In a significant development, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics technology not for drag reduction, but for the explicit purpose of generating increased downforce. The company quotes an impressive figure of 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with an astonishing 100kg of that being attributed to the deployable rear wing, which extends from the rear of the car. This active aero not only enhances stability at high speeds but also contributes to the car’s visual drama.
Cooling is a paramount concern in any high-performance hybrid, and the 296 GTB addresses this with exceptional efficacy. Two radiators positioned at the front of the car manage engine and gearbox temperatures, while two additional condensers are dedicated to cooling the battery pack. Hot air is efficiently expelled from beneath the car, ensuring it doesn’t interfere with the crucial airflow directed to the intercoolers positioned along the car’s flanks. The subtle apertures located beneath the headlamps are designed to draw in air for brake cooling, a vital consideration for track performance. Moreover, the aerodynamically integrated wing that flows from the rear of the roofline ingeniously creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, effectively channeling air towards the rear of the car as if guided by a solid surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce, however, is generated from beneath the car. Here, meticulous attention has been paid not only to the intricate channeling of air and the design of the rear diffuser but also to the critical ground clearance, which is optimized to maximize the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
The 296 GTB models we had the privilege of testing on the circuit during the launch 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 endeavors. It also introduces further carbon aerodynamic enhancements to the front end, contributing an additional 20kg of downforce. Within the cabin, the Assetto Fiorano package incorporates more carbon fiber elements, such as the door panels, and extends to the exterior, collectively contributing to a significant weight saving of 12kg. This figure can be further enhanced by an additional 3kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. For those seeking ultimate grip, the Assetto Fiorano configuration also offers the choice of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, replacing the already potent standard Pilot Sport 4S rubber. Furthermore, cars specified with the Fiorano package can be adorned with an exterior graphics package, thoughtfully inspired by the iconic 250LM from the 1960s.
Having spent considerable time with the 296 GTB in person, I can attest that it is an undeniably beautiful machine. It possesses a unique aesthetic, distinct from anything else on the road, and its silhouette subtly echoes the classic lines of the 1960s 250LM, even without the more divisive graphic treatments. This design philosophy speaks to Ferrari’s heritage while embracing modern aerodynamic principles, creating a car that is both visually arresting and functionally brilliant.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: The Heart of the Experience
Initiating a drive in the 296 GTB is a nuanced experience. A gentle double-press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss, followed by engaging first gear, is all it takes. The 296 always defaults to Hybrid mode. This means it will glide away from rest on electric power alone, unless instructed otherwise via the intuitive haptic driver mode selectors located on the left side of the steering wheel boss. Provided you refrain from excessive throttle application, the car will continue its silent progression on electric power, assuming there is sufficient charge in the battery.
For those who wish to fully embrace the electric experience, a dedicated ‘Force EV’ mode is available, irrespective of the demands placed on the powertrain. Alternatively, the Performance and Qualifying modes unlock the full potential of the hybrid system. In Performance mode, both power sources collaborate with the objective of simultaneously delivering exhilarating performance and maintaining battery charge. Qualifying mode, however, is solely dedicated to ultimate performance, with no regard for the battery’s state of charge.
The sensation of gliding silently through picturesque villages is an unexpected, yet thoroughly enjoyable, aspect of the 296 GTB. The damping system is so remarkably sophisticated that it transforms long journeys into surprisingly comfortable affairs. Even the luggage space in the front ‘frunk’ is surprisingly practical, a welcome amenity absent in the SF90. However, what truly captures the imagination, and what both you and I are undoubtedly eager to discover, is the visceral thrill of unleashing both the V6 engine and the electric motor in unison.
The clue to its potency lies in what transpires when you firmly plant the throttle at low revs in a high gear: the 296 simply leaps forward with an almost supernatural immediacy. There is no discernible turbo lag, and for a fleeting moment, one questions the necessity of gears, such is the sheer force of its acceleration. Yet, there are eight of them to exploit, and an engine that eagerly revs to an astonishing 8,500rpm. When you truly uncork the 296 GTB, the effect is nothing short of startling.
As the performance figures suggest – with its sub-3-second 0-62mph time and a top speed exceeding 205mph – the rate of acceleration is of the “hold on tight, nervous laughter” variety. It verges on overwhelming, yet possesses a strange, addictive quality. This is, unequivocally, a seriously rapid car. And the sound? It’s equally captivating, with a rich tapestry of turbocharger effects overlaying the melodious rasp of the V6. The aural experience is as much a part of the performance as the G-force.
Ride and Handling: A Symphony of Precision and Agility
What truly elevates the 296 GTB is the almost telepathic responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s assertion that the car’s primary objective was to be “fun to drive” is not mere marketing hyperbole; it is a deeply embedded truth. The car feels incredibly agile without ever bordering on being nervous or unpredictable. The steering, typically light and lightning-quick, also delivers a remarkable level of tactile feedback, allowing the driver to feel connected to the road. While grip levels are exceptionally high, as one would expect from a Ferrari, the car’s true genius lies in its adjustability via the throttle. This ability to precisely modulate power and balance makes for an exhilarating and deeply rewarding driving experience that elicits an irrepressible grin.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s an almost complete absence of inertia, encouraging the driver to work with the car, making minute inputs and reveling in its inherent accuracy and precision. Engaging the ‘CT Off’ mode provides a remarkable degree of freedom, accompanied by the comforting reassurance that an incredibly sophisticated electronic brain is still on hand to provide a safety net. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the inherent, beautifully resolved balance of the 296 GTB allows it to be coaxed into controlled oversteer in a manner that would be unthinkable in many other cars boasting similar power outputs.
On a racetrack, the 296 GTB has the remarkable ability to shrink even the longest of straights. What becomes even more apparent is the car’s surgical precision. While the immense power is readily available to break rear-wheel traction at numerous points around the lap, the 296 GTB is also exquisitely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. A driver quickly learns that precision with every control input yields the greatest rewards. The turn-in accuracy and response are so immediate and dramatic that they fundamentally alter the approach to every corner. Rather than gradually easing the car into turns and allowing loads to build, the 296 GTB adopts its desired line instantaneously, thanks in part to its Multimatic dampers and the hyper-quick steering, which perfectly complements the enhanced roll support offered by the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for someone accustomed to driving mature sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are phenomenal, offering a joyous experience lap after lap.
Interior: A Digital Frontier with Familiar Ferrari DNA
The cabin architecture of the 296 GTB will feel instantly familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90 Stradale. The 296 draws heavily from its larger sibling, featuring a predominantly digital interface and a complex array of haptic switchgear. These controls are liberally integrated into the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods flanking it.
Undoubtedly, the system presents a steep learning curve. To be fair, there is a vast amount of information and functionality to manage. However, the most frustrating aspect is when simple operations require multiple attempts, or when one is unsure whether an input has been registered at all. Despite these usability challenges, the cabin undoubtedly feels like a special place to be. The use of premium materials, the driver-focused layout, and the underlying sense of occasion combine to create an environment that befits a Ferrari.
Expert Verdict: A Return to Form and a Benchmark for the Future
At the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, the competition was intensely close. The Artura and the 296 GTB were separated by the proverbial “fag paper,” with the judges themselves split down the middle. Three of us narrowly favored the Ferrari, while three placed the McLaren ahead by the slimmest of margins.
Those of us who championed the 296 GTB, including myself, were captivated by its sheer brilliance. “What a spectacular car,” enthused Jethro. “Beautiful to look at, outrageously fast, amazingly exploitable, and so technically clever. Its V6 demonstrates to McLaren how to downsize while significantly amplifying the drama. It matches the Artura in terms of sheer control but possesses a more playful and indulgent character.”
Dickie’s assessment, which resonated with many of us, declared it “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” He further elaborated, “The hybrid system works exceptionally well and doesn’t alter the driving experience as drastically as I had feared, likely because we’ve already become accustomed to the torquey characteristics of turbocharged V8s in the 488 and F8. The 296 is stonkingly quick, but its appeal isn’t solely derived from speed, thanks to the character of the V6, which offers a consistently sweet soundtrack that evolves with throttle input.”
The seamless integration of the Ferrari’s hybridisation was widely lauded. However, a notable incident on the final night saw the car stranded with a depleted battery and no apparent means of revival. To be fair, Ferrari had provided prior warnings and detailed procedures to mitigate such an occurrence. Nevertheless, the possibility of an owner finding themselves in a similar predicament is not inconceivable. As Gallagher astutely pointed out, “For a company that pioneered individual rear-wheel steering in its cars, the inability to engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent this scenario is a significant oversight.” Fortunately for the 296, this incident occurred after all cars had been scored.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering divided opinions, and the brake feel, while competent, didn’t quite match the absolute best in the group. The tech interface, too, faced widespread criticism for its excessive complexity. Yet, despite these points, the 296 GTB proved irresistibly seductive. Vivian confessed, “I initially doubted I would appreciate the Fezza’s complexities and rather gratuitous points of difference, but I ended up somewhat bewitched: its spooky directional changes, its astonishing damping, its looney-tunes levels of grip, and the linearity of its seemingly endless power delivery…”
The overall sentiment among the judges was that the 296 GTB represented a significant return to form for Ferrari, especially after the SF90 Stradale left many feeling somewhat underwhelmed the previous year. As Sutcliffe summarized, “The 296 is far more successful because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels far more natural and significantly less intrusive.” Gallagher concurred, stating, “Ferrari has taken so much from the SF90, learned from that car, and distilled it into a series-production model that stands as one of its very best.”
Price, Rivals, and the Future of the Supercar
When a vehicle is as heavily laden with cutting-edge technology as the 296 GTB, there’s always a risk that it might become less than the sum of its parts. This was a sentiment we encountered with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power output, could feel somewhat unnerving due to its challenging driving characteristics.
The 296 GTB, however, is a different proposition entirely. As evidenced by its joint third-place finish alongside the McLaren Artura at the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, it feels far more organic. Its masterful blend of immense power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect sweet spot, effectively redefining what a supercar in the £250,000-ish price bracket can achieve. Whispers of a ‘Versione Speciale’ variant, currently operating under a temporary code name, are circulating, promising even greater power, performance, and intensity. The crucial hope is that this enhanced model retains the standard 296’s inexplicably natural and accessible feel.
It is precisely this aspect of the 296 GTB’s constitution – its inherent feel and accessibility – that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized when honing its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is simply an obscene amount of power to manage in a series-production supercar, and it possesses the potential to overwhelm if the rest of the vehicle isn’t meticulously resolved to meet it. If Lamborghini has indeed mastered this challenge – and their exceptional work on the Revuelto provides ample reason for optimism – then we are poised for an absolutely sensational twin test, a showdown of colossal proportions.
One could even expand this to a 2400bhp triple threat, incorporating the McLaren 750S. It seems almost absurd to describe it as the ‘minnow’ of the class with “only” 740bhp. However, it counters with a relatively svelte 1389kg kerb weight, delivering a fiercely competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw engagement, ergonomic perfection, razor-sharp steering, and deft chassis control demonstrably set it apart from the comparatively more remote Ferrari.
For those seeking the pinnacle of hybrid supercar engineering, the Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a monumental achievement. It represents not just a powerful machine, but a philosophical shift, demonstrating that electrification can enhance, rather than dilute, the essence of the supercar experience.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbocharged V6, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819bhp @ 8000rpm
Combined Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry) (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Estimated Price: £250,000+
The future of the supercar is here, and it sounds, feels, and performs like the Ferrari 296 GTB.
Ready to experience the future of automotive excellence firsthand? Contact your nearest Ferrari dealership today to arrange a private consultation and discover how the 296 GTB can redefine your driving world.
