Ferrari 296 GTB Review: The Benchmark Every Supercar Must Chase
For over a decade, I’ve sat behind the wheel of everything from analog track specials to cutting-edge electrified hypercars. Yet, few vehicles have managed to recalibrate my expectations quite like the Ferrari 296 GTB. As we enter 2025, the automotive landscape is shifting aggressively toward hybridization, and while the horizon is crowded with high-output newcomers—specifically the thunderous 903bhp Lamborghini Temerario—the 296 GTB remains the high-water mark for mid-engined, driver-focused engineering.
A New Era of Prancing Horse Performance
The Ferrari 296 GTB represents a fundamental departure from the V8-dominated era that defined Maranello’s recent history. By pivoting to an advanced twin-turbocharged 120-degree V6 architecture paired with a potent electric motor, Ferrari hasn’t just “downsized”—they have revolutionized the supercar category.
At a combined 819bhp, this plug-in hybrid isn’t just about raw numbers; it is about the synthesis of power and agility. While rivals are chasing higher peak outputs, Ferrari has focused on the “feel” of the power delivery. The 296 GTB, with its compact wheelbase and clever weight distribution, manages to make the Ferrari 296 GTB feel significantly lighter than its 1470kg dry weight suggests. It is a masterclass in chassis tuning that makes even the most sophisticated electronic aids feel like an extension of your own intuition.
The Engineering Soul
What makes the Ferrari 296 GTB a true modern classic is the depth of its technical integration. The core of the experience is the V6 engine, which produces a distinctive, high-frequency rasp that pays homage to the legendary Dino 246 GT, yet delivers the explosive urgency of a modern high-performance supercar.
The hybrid system is not merely for efficiency. The 165bhp electric motor provides instantaneous torque-fill, eliminating turbo lag entirely. When you plant your foot, the acceleration is linear, relentless, and at times, bordering on terrifying. This level of supercar performance creates a driving experience that is as addictive as it is demanding. To harness this power, the car utilizes a proprietary six-axis sensor system (6w-CDS), which communicates with the Side Slip Control and active E-Diff to ensure that 819bhp translates to cornering speed rather than just tire smoke.
Technical Dominance and Aero
In 2025, aerodynamics are as much about aesthetic harmony as they are about downforce. The Ferrari 296 GTB utilizes active aero to generate an impressive 360kg of downforce at 155mph. Unlike many competitors that rely on bulky, fixed wings, the 296 integrates its aero surfaces so cleanly that the silhouette remains unmistakably classic.
For those seeking the ultimate edge, the Assetto Fiorano pack is the gold standard. By swapping to Multimatic dampers and shedding weight through carbon-fiber components, this configuration elevates the car from a grand tourer into a track-ready weapon. When equipped with the optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, the turn-in response is so immediate and accurate that it shames many dedicated racing machines I have tested on circuits like Silverstone or the Nürburgring.
The Competition: A Tug of War for Supremacy
The Ferrari 296 GTB is currently locked in a fierce rivalry with the upcoming Lamborghini Temerario. While the Temerario promises a 10,000rpm V8 hybrid powertrain, the challenge for Lamborghini will be matching the organic, natural balance that Ferrari has achieved with the 296.
For enthusiasts looking for an investment-grade vehicle, the Ferrari 296 GTB price point—hovering comfortably above the £250,000 mark—reflects the premium engineering involved. When you compare it to the McLaren 750S or the Huracán’s legacy, it becomes clear that while others are building machines that focus on raw output, Ferrari has built a machine that focuses on the connection between the man and the machine.
The Digital Interface: A Minor Grievance
If there is one critique to be leveled against this masterpiece, it is the user interface. The digital haptic controls on the steering wheel, inherited from the SF90, can be finicky. In the heat of a canyon road or a track session, physical buttons often provide better feedback than a touch-sensitive panel. However, this is a minor footnote in an otherwise stellar ownership experience.
Final Verdict: Is It Still the One to Beat?
After spending significant time with the 296, my conclusion remains firm: it is one of the most cohesive, exciting, and technically advanced cars ever to leave Maranello. It doesn’t just embrace the hybrid future; it defines it.
If you are a serious collector or a performance aficionado, the Ferrari 296 GTB is the vehicle that bridges the gap between the visceral joy of traditional internal combustion and the mind-bending speed of the electric age. It is the yardstick by which the next generation of supercars—including the Temerario—will be measured.
Are you ready to experience the pinnacle of hybrid performance for yourself? Whether you are looking to secure a build slot for the upcoming Versione Speciale or wanting to test-drive a pre-owned model, now is the time to engage with your local Ferrari dealer. Contact your nearest showroom today to arrange an appointment and discover why the 296 GTB remains the definitive choice for the modern enthusiast.
