The Electrifying Roar: Ferrari 296 GTB Redefines Supercar Supremacy
For a decade now, the supercar landscape has been a vibrant tapestry of roaring V8s and thunderous V10s, each vying for dominance through
sheer displacement and guttural exhaust notes. Yet, as an industry veteran with ten years immersed in this exhilarating world, I’ve witnessed a seismic shift, a technological evolution that has fundamentally altered the very definition of performance. The Ferrari 296 GTB, a masterpiece of automotive engineering, stands as a testament to this new era, a car that not only embraces electrification but masterfully integrates it to deliver an unparalleled driving experience.
This isn’t just another iteration of an iconic marque; it’s a bold redefinition. The arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 marked an unprecedented departure from tradition. Maranello, a house renowned for its multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8s, took a courageous leap of faith, swapping its signature powerplant for a groundbreaking twin-turbo V6, augmented by a potent electric motor. This audacious move thrust the Ferrari 296 GTB into the vanguard of the supercar segment, a domain that was, and in many respects still is, tentatively navigating the transition to hybrid power.
In its nascent stages, the Ferrari 296 GTB found itself amidst a rarefied field of competitors. Its most traditional adversary was the Lamborghini Huracán, a symphony of naturally aspirated V10 charisma and raw auditory drama. While lower in comparative horsepower, the Huracán offered an engaging, visceral connection that resonated deeply with purists. Then there was the formidable McLaren 720S, a titan of the twin-turbo V8 realm, built on a philosophy of relentless power-to-weight supremacy. However, the horizon has recently welcomed a new contender, the 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid marvel – the Lamborghini Temerario. This machine represents a direct challenge, a potent statement of intent from Sant’Agata Bolognese aimed squarely at Maranello’s 819bhp hybridised Berlinetta.
Let’s not mince words: the Ferrari 296 GTB possesses truly awe-inspiring firepower. Its all-new 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, coupled with an electric motor exclusively powering the rear wheels (a crucial distinction from the SF90’s AWD setup), unleashes a staggering 819bhp. This wasn’t just an incremental update; it was a paradigm shift, a deliberate act to shatter established supercar conventions. The sheer magnitude of this power output invites contemplation: where does this relentless pursuit of horsepower truly end? And, perhaps more pragmatically, where in the real world can one truly harness such prodigious performance? These are questions that linger, but they don’t detract from the sheer brilliance of the engineering on display.
The Ferrari 296 GTB holds a unique place in Ferrari’s illustrious history. It is the first V6-powered Ferrari road car to bear the iconic Prancing Horse emblem (the delectable 246 GT Dino, while V6-powered, never officially wore the badge in its era). It also pioneers Ferrari’s ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger configuration and, crucially, is a plug-in hybrid, offering an all-electric range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6 is nestled low within a newly developed aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors. This packaging innovation also sees the occupants positioned slightly further forward, contributing to a more intimate driving position.
The electric motor itself is no mere afterthought; it contributes a formidable 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque. The V6 alone is a powerhouse, producing a remarkable 654bhp and 546lb ft. The combined output, the headline-grabbing 819bhp, is merely the tip of the iceberg. Ferrari astutely refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the intricate interplay between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor. However, it’s safe to assume this synergistic output is nothing short of immense. Furthermore, the V6 unit sheds a significant 30kg compared to Ferrari’s V8 engines, and it’s seamlessly mated to an advanced eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a long, oblong structure, is ingeniously located behind the seats, further contributing to the car’s optimal weight distribution.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of acronym-laden electronic chassis systems, and the Ferrari 296 GTB is no exception. Ferrari’s engineers have developed a sophisticated six-axis sensor, dubbed 6w-CDS, capable of precisely measuring acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes. This advanced sensor replaces conventional yaw sensors and, in conjunction with a sensor integrated into the steering rack, provides the car with an intimate understanding of driver inputs and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patch. This data is then fed into systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, all working in concert to maximize cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability and driver confidence. A notable innovation is the ABS-evo system, operational in RACE mode and above. This system leverages the 296’s brake-by-wire technology to not only shorten braking distances but also enhance braking performance during aggressive trail-braking maneuvers into corners, a technique demanding precision and immediate feedback.
For the first time in its history, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics not to reduce drag, but to actively increase downforce. The firm quotes an impressive 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a significant portion of that – up to 100kg – generated by the deployable rear wing. The thermal management of this complex hybrid powertrain is equally impressive. The front of the car houses two radiators for engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two condensers dedicated to cooling the battery. Hot air is expelled discreetly from the underbody, ensuring it doesn’t impede the flow of cool air directed towards the intercoolers positioned along the car’s flanks. The subtle apertures beneath the headlights are dedicated to cooling the brakes, a critical component in managing sustained high-performance driving. Meanwhile, the aerodynamically integrated wing at the rear of the roofline ingeniously creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, channeling air towards the rear of the vehicle with remarkable efficiency. The lion’s share of the Ferrari 296 GTB’s downforce is generated from beneath the car. Here, meticulous attention has been paid not only to the intricate channeling of airflow and the aggressive rear diffuser but also to the precise height of the underbody off the ground, maximizing the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
Our initial encounters with the Ferrari 296 GTB were on a track, equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-oriented upgrade replaces the standard dampers with race-derived Multimatic units, reminiscent of those found in GT racing cars. It also adds further carbon fiber aerodynamic elements to the front fascia, boosting front downforce by an additional 20kg. The pursuit of lightness extends to the cabin, with more carbon fiber accents adorning components like the door panels. The exterior also benefits from carbon fiber elements, contributing to an overall weight saving of 12kg. This figure can be further enhanced by an additional 3kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. For the ultimate grip, the Fiorano package also offers Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires as an upgrade over the standard Pilot Sport 4S. Visually, Fiorano-equipped cars can be distinguished by an exterior graphics package, drawing inspiration from the iconic 250LM of the 1960s. Having spent considerable time with the Ferrari 296 GTB in person, I can attest to its striking beauty. It possesses a unique aesthetic, distinct from anything else on the road, and its subtle nods to the 250LM evoke a timeless elegance, even without the more polarizing graphic schemes.
To initiate propulsion, a simple double-press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss is required, followed by selecting first gear. The Ferrari 296 GTB defaults to Hybrid mode, commencing its journey on electric power alone, unless the driver explicitly overrides this via the haptic driver mode selectors located on the left side of the steering wheel boss. Provided the throttle input remains measured, the car will continue to glide silently on electric power, assuming sufficient battery charge. For those desiring an even more focused electric experience, a dedicated EV mode can be engaged, irrespective of powertrain demands. Beyond this, the Performance and Qualifying modes offer escalating levels of engagement. In Performance mode, both power sources work in tandem with an emphasis on maintaining battery charge. Qualifying mode, however, unlocks the car’s ultimate performance potential, with battery charge becoming a secondary consideration.
The serene experience of gliding through urban landscapes on electric power is an unexpected delight. The damping is so sophisticated that it transforms long journeys into remarkably comfortable affairs. Even the luggage space in the front trunk (the ‘frunk’) is surprisingly practical, a welcome improvement over the SF90. But, as we all truly desire to know, what does it feel like when both the V6 and the electric motor are unleashed to their full potential? The answer lies in a moment of revelation: plant the throttle at low revs in a high gear, and the Ferrari 296 GTB simply catapults forward. The absence of any discernible lag is astonishing, making one momentarily question the very necessity of gear changes, such is the immediacy of its potency. Nevertheless, there are eight gears to exploit, and an engine that eagerly revs to 8500rpm. When you truly uncork the Ferrari 296 GTB, the effect is nothing short of startling.
As the performance figures suggest – a blistering 0-62mph in the mid-2-second range and a top speed exceeding 205mph – the rate of acceleration is the kind that elicits a tight grip on the steering wheel and a nervous, exhilarating laugh. It verges on the intense, yet possesses an addictive quality that draws you in. This is a car of profound speed. And the sound? It’s equally captivating, a symphony of turbocharger effects harmoniously overlaid with the tuneful rasp of the V6.
The chassis responsiveness of the Ferrari 296 GTB is truly remarkable, a testament to Ferrari’s unwavering commitment to driver engagement. They weren’t exaggerating when they stated the car’s primary objective was to be “fun to drive.” It feels incredibly agile, yet devoid of any nervous twitchiness. The steering is typically light and rapid, but crucially, it communicates an exceptional level of road feel. While the grip levels are predictably immense, what truly sets this car apart is its throttle adjustability, a characteristic that invariably brings a broad grin to the driver’s face.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the Ferrari 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a palpable lack of inertia that encourages a symbiotic relationship with the driver, facilitating subtle inputs and reveling in the car’s precision. The ‘CT Off’ mode provides a reassuring safety net, allowing for bold maneuvers with the knowledge that an advanced electronic brain is monitoring and subtly assisting. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the Ferrari 296 GTB’s inherent balance allows for controlled oversteer, a feat one might deem impossible in a car boasting 819bhp.
On the track, the Ferrari 296 GTB possesses the uncanny ability to make even lengthy straights feel compressed. Its precision as a driving instrument becomes strikingly apparent. The immense power is readily available to break traction at the rear at numerous points around the circuit, yet the car remains exquisitely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. The profound reward of precise control becomes immediately evident. The turn-in accuracy and response are phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. Instead of gently easing the car into turns and allowing loads to build, the Ferrari 296 GTB settles instantly, aided by the Multimatic dampers. This is beautifully complemented by the hyper-quick steering, which perfectly matches the enhanced roll support offered by the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for those accustomed to more mature sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the Ferrari 296 GTB are simply phenomenal, providing an exhilarating experience lap after lap.
The cabin architecture will feel immediately familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90, as the Ferrari 296 GTB draws heavily from its larger sibling. The all-digital interface and its accompanying haptic switchgear, liberally applied across the steering wheel and the traditional Ferrari pods flanking it, present a learning curve. It is undoubtedly complex, tasked with conveying a vast amount of information. The primary frustration lies in the occasional need for a second press for simple operations that don’t register initially, or uncertainty about whether a press has been successful at all. Despite these usability challenges, the interior undeniably exudes an aura of exclusivity and specialness.
In the esteemed evo Car of the Year 2022 awards, the Ferrari 296 GTB achieved a joint third-place finish alongside the McLaren Artura, a testament to its exceptional capabilities. Judges were split, with three narrowly favoring the Ferrari and three giving a slight edge to the McLaren. Those who championed the Ferrari 296 GTB lauded its spectacular design, outrageous speed, exploitable performance, and technical brilliance. The V6 was praised for demonstrating how downsizing can amplify drama, and its control was considered on par with the Artura, but with a more playful and indulgent character.
One judge famously declared it “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” a sentiment echoed by many. The hybrid system was commended for its seamless integration, surprisingly not detracting from the driving experience as much as initially feared, perhaps due to the industry’s growing familiarity with the torque-rich characteristics of turbocharged V8s. The Ferrari 296 GTB’s speed was described as “stonkingly quick,” but its appeal extended beyond sheer velocity, thanks to the characterful V6 and its captivating soundtrack that evolves with throttle input.
While the hybridisation was widely praised for its seamlessness, a single incident of the battery depleting left judges stranded, a concern noted by Ferrari itself. This oversight, the inability for a company pioneering advanced technologies to engineer a simple fail-safe, was a significant criticism. Fortunately, this occurred after scoring, preserving the Ferrari 296 GTB’s strong showing.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering divided opinion, and the brake feel, while competent, didn’t quite reach the lofty standards set by the very best in the group. The tech interface also faced widespread criticism for its complexity. However, these criticisms were overshadowed by the Ferrari 296 GTB’s irresistible allure. One judge, initially skeptical of its complexity and “gratuitous points of difference,” ultimately found himself “bewitched” by its uncanny ability to change direction, its phenomenal damping, astonishing levels of grip, and the linearity of its seemingly endless power delivery.
The Ferrari 296 GTB represents a significant return to form for Ferrari, a stark contrast to the SF90, which left many feeling somewhat underwhelmed. The technical sophistication and hybrid integration in the Ferrari 296 GTB feel far more natural and less intrusive. Ferrari has clearly learned valuable lessons from the SF90, distilling that knowledge into a series-production model that ranks among its finest achievements.
With such an abundance of cutting-edge technology, there’s always a risk of a car becoming less than the sum of its parts. This was a concern with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, could be unnerving in its driving characteristics. The Ferrari 296 GTB, however, is a different proposition entirely. Its harmonious blend of power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect chord, redefining what a supercar in the £250,000-plus bracket can achieve. Rumors of a Versione Speciale variant, promising even greater power and intensity, are circulating, and the hope is that the standard Ferrari 296 GTB’s remarkably natural feel will be preserved.
It is precisely this aspect – the natural, intuitive feel – that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is an obscene amount of power to wield in a series-production supercar, and without a perfectly resolved chassis to manage it, that power can become a liability. If Lamborghini has indeed achieved this delicate balance, much like they did with the Revuelto, then we are poised for an epic twin test that will undoubtedly be one for the ages. And perhaps, we could even expand that to a monumental 2400bhp triple threat, including the McLaren 750S, now almost comically described as the “minnow” with “only” 740bhp. However, the McLaren brings to the table a relatively svelte kerb weight of 1389kg, resulting in a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw, ergonomic brilliance, crisp steering, and deft chassis control offer a more direct, engaging experience compared to the comparatively remote feel of the Ferrari.
For those seeking the ultimate expression of electrified supercar performance, the Ferrari 296 GTB represents a compelling and sophisticated choice. Its fusion of groundbreaking hybrid technology, breathtaking performance, and engaging dynamics sets a new benchmark.
Engine: V6, 2992cc, twin-turbo, plus e-motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Power: 819bhp (combined) @ 8000rpm
Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry) (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9sec
Top speed: 205mph
Price: £250,000+
Embark on the journey of redefining your driving expectations. Discover the Ferrari 296 GTB and experience the future of performance today.
