Ferrari 296 GTB: A New Epoch in Hybrid Supercar Performance and the Shadow of the Lamborghini Temerario
For a decade, I’ve been immersed in the thrilling, ever-evolving world of performance automobiles. I’v
e witnessed groundbreaking engineering, chased the limits of adhesion on legendary circuits, and grappled with the delicate balance of power and precision that defines a true supercar. In this landscape, the arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 wasn’t just a new model; it was a seismic shift, a bold declaration of intent from Maranello. Even now, with the rumble of a 10,000rpm, 903bhp Lamborghini rival on the horizon, the Ferrari 296 GTB remains a truly breathtaking machine, pushing the boundaries of what we thought possible in a road-legal supercar.
For years, Ferrari’s mid-engined supercar lineage was synonymous with the sonorous, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8. The 296 GTB, however, represented an unprecedented departure. It embraced a completely new twin-turbo V6 architecture, augmented by potent electric power, and in doing so, seized the initiative in a segment that was only beginning its complex transition to widespread hybridisation. At its launch, the 296 GTB’s most direct contemporary was the Lamborghini Huracán, with its soul-stirring, naturally aspirated V10. While the Huracán offered an intoxicating blend of noise and visceral feedback, it was outgunned in sheer power by the electrified Ferrari. The other formidable competitor was the McLaren 720S, a king of the twin-turbo V8 lightweight formula, later evolved into the 750S. These machines, while potent in their own right, traded on evolutionary prowess and a more traditional approach to performance. The 903bhp, 10,000rpm twin-turbo V8 hybrid Lamborghini Temerario, however, is a direct, audacious challenge thrown at Ferrari’s 819bhp electrified Berlinetta. The Ferrari 296 GTB is not just a participant; it’s a pioneer in this new hybrid era.
The sheer audacity of the 296 GTB’s performance figures is undeniable. With its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine working in concert with an electric motor – exclusively driving the rear wheels, unlike the more complex SF90 – the 819bhp output of the Ferrari 296 GTB shattered established supercar conventions. It’s easy to get lost in these astronomical numbers, to ponder where this relentless escalation of power will ultimately lead, and perhaps more pragmatically, where one can even legally and safely deploy such velocity. But these are questions for another day.
What sets the 296 GTB apart is its historical significance. It marks the debut of a V6 engine in a Ferrari road car – the revered 246 GT Dino, while sublime, never bore the Prancing Horse badge in its era. It’s also the first Ferrari to feature a ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger installation and, crucially, a plug-in hybrid system offering a usable EV-only range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6 unit is nestled low within a newly developed aluminum chassis. Ferrari engineers meticulously reduced the wheelbase by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, while subtly repositioning the occupants slightly further forward to optimize weight distribution and enhance the sensory connection to the road.
The electric motor contributes an impressive 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 itself unleashes a staggering 654bhp and 546lb ft. The combined output, as widely reported, stands at a monumental 819bhp. Ferrari, perhaps wisely, refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the intricate interplay and potential for momentary torque vectoring between the V6 and the electric motor. However, it’s safe to assume this figure is nothing short of prodigious. The V6 package itself offers a weight saving of 30kg over Ferrari’s V8 engines, and it’s mated to a lightning-quick eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a long, slender structure, is ingeniously housed behind the seats, contributing to the car’s remarkably balanced and centralized mass.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of acronyms detailing its sophisticated electronic chassis management systems. For the 296 GTB, Ferrari has developed an advanced six-axis sensor unit, dubbed the 6w-CDS. This groundbreaking technology precisely measures acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z planes, effectively replacing traditional yaw sensors. In conjunction with sensors mounted directly on the steering rack, the system gains an unparalleled understanding of driver inputs and real-time tire grip at the contact patch. This data feeds into systems like the renowned Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, allowing the Ferrari 296 GTB to maximize cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability and driver confidence. A significant innovation here is the ABS-evo system, which, in RACE mode and above, leverages the car’s brake-by-wire architecture to dramatically shorten braking distances and enhance performance during trail-braking into corners.
Furthermore, for the first time, Ferrari is deploying its active aerodynamics not merely to reduce drag, but to actively generate downforce. The company quotes a remarkable 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a substantial portion, up to 100kg, being produced by an active rear wing that elegantly deploys from the rear deck. The cooling strategy is equally sophisticated. Two radiators in the front are dedicated to engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two additional condensers for managing the battery’s temperature. Hot air is efficiently expelled underneath the car, ensuring it doesn’t compromise the flow of cool air directed to the intercoolers positioned along the car’s flanks. The subtle apertures below the headlamps are ingeniously designed to draw air for brake cooling, while the integrated wing at the rear of the roofline assists in creating a ‘virtual’ rear screen, channeling airflow effectively to the rear of the vehicle. The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid not only to airflow management and the rear diffuser but also to the critical underbody ground clearance, optimizing the performance of these downforce-generating surfaces.
Our initial encounters with the 296 GTB were on a demanding circuit, and each example was equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This extensive upgrade replaces the standard dampers with race-derived Multimatic units and adds further carbon-fiber aerodynamic elements to the nose, increasing front downforce by an additional 20kg. The weight-saving focus extends to the interior, with more carbon fiber utilized in components like the door panels, contributing to an overall dry weight reduction of 12kg. This figure can be further enhanced by an additional 3kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. For the ultimate track-focused setup, the Assetto Fiorano package also offers the choice of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, a step up from the already capable standard Pilot Sport 4S. Additionally, Assetto Fiorano-equipped cars can be adorned with an exterior graphics package, a stylish nod to the iconic 250LM of the 1960s. Seeing the 296 GTB in person, even without the more flamboyant graphics, it’s undeniably a strikingly beautiful machine, a modern interpretation that somehow evokes the spirit of its legendary predecessors without being derivative.
Engaging the Ferrari 296 GTB for the first time is an experience in itself. A simple double-press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss awakens the powertrain, followed by selecting first gear. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing for serene departures on electric power alone, unless immediate throttle input dictates otherwise via the intuitive haptic driver mode controls integrated into the steering wheel. As long as the battery retains charge and your throttle inputs are judicious, you can glide through urban environments on pure electric power, a surprisingly refined and exceptionally comfortable experience. The damping sophistication is remarkable, making it a surprisingly compliant companion for long journeys. The ‘frunk’ up front offers a respectable amount of luggage space, a welcome practicality often overlooked in the pursuit of extreme performance, and a distinct advantage over the SF90. But, of course, what truly ignites the imagination is the sensation when both the V6 and the electric motor are unleashed in their full, unadulterated glory.
The initial surge of acceleration, even in a higher gear at low revs, is simply staggering. The 296 GTB bolts forward with an immediate, lag-free response that makes you momentarily question the need for the eight gears at your disposal. Yet, these gears are there to be exploited, working in tandem with an engine that eagerly revs to 8500rpm. When you truly uncork the Ferrari 296 GTB, the effect is nothing short of astonishing. The numbers – a claimed 0-62mph in under 3 seconds and a top speed exceeding 205mph – only hint at the visceral reality. The rate of acceleration is intense, verging on the exhilaratingly uncomfortable, yet undeniably addictive. This is a car that delivers performance on an entirely different plane. And the sound? It’s a symphony of mechanical prowess. The V6 rasp is tuneful and characterful, beautifully overlaid with the evocative whoosh of the twin turbos, creating a soundtrack that’s as captivating as the acceleration itself.
The true revelation of the 296 GTB lies in its handling dynamics. The chassis response is exquisitely sharp, a testament to Ferrari’s commitment to making this car “fun to drive.” It feels incredibly agile, yet never nervous, a delicate balance that few manufacturers achieve. The steering, characteristically for Ferrari, is light and lightning-fast, but crucially, it’s also brimming with tactile feedback. Grip levels are, as expected, immense, but what truly elevates the experience is the car’s inherent adjustability on the throttle. It’s this ability to subtly alter its trajectory mid-corner with precise pedal inputs that elicits an involuntary grin, a pure expression of driving pleasure.
Despite its claimed dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a remarkable lack of inertia throughout the car, encouraging the driver to work with its precision, employing small, precise inputs and reveling in its accuracy. The CT Off mode offers a safety net of electronic intervention, providing reassurance even when pushing the limits. However, even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296 GTB’s natural balance allows for surprisingly nuanced oversteer, a feat that seems almost improbable in a car boasting 819bhp. On track, the 296 GTB has the uncanny ability to make even the longest straights feel shorter, transforming into a razor-sharp instrument. While the power is readily available to break rear traction at numerous points around the lap, the car’s acute sensitivity to braking and steering inputs rewards precision. Mastering these controls leads to the greatest rewards. The turn-in accuracy and immediate response dramatically shorten the entry phase of every corner. Instead of gradually loading the chassis, the 296 GTB settles instantly, its Multimatic dampers working in harmony with the hyper-quick steering and the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more mature sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are simply phenomenal, offering an addictive, lap after lap joy.
The interior architecture of the 296 GTB will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90. Ferrari has carried over much of its digital interface and haptic switchgear. This comprehensive implementation, spread across the steering wheel and traditional control pods, presents a learning curve. While undoubtedly complex, it’s an understandable consequence of the sheer volume of information and functions to be controlled. The most frustrating aspect can be the occasional need for a second press for commands to register, or the ambiguity of whether an input has been successfully acknowledged. Nevertheless, the cabin exudes a sense of occasion and specialness, a fitting environment for such a technologically advanced machine.
In 2022, the Ferrari 296 GTB was a standout contender, narrowly missing out on the coveted Evo Car of the Year award, a testament to its exceptional qualities. The judges were divided, with the Ferrari and the McLaren Artura finishing neck-and-neck. Those who favored the Ferrari – myself included, alongside colleagues Meaden and Bovingdon – lauded its spectacular nature, its breathtaking beauty, outrageous speed, exploitable performance, and remarkable technical sophistication. Jethro enthused about how the V6 engine demonstrated McLaren’s approach to downsizing while injecting a healthy dose of drama, perfectly matching the Artura’s control while offering a more playful and indulgent driving experience.
Dickie’s assessment, echoed by many, declared it the “first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” He further praised the seamless integration of the hybrid system, noting that it didn’t detract from the driving experience as much as feared, likely due to the familiarity with the torque-rich characteristics of modern turbocharged V8s. He described the 296 GTB as “stonkingly quick” but highlighted that its appeal extends beyond mere speed, thanks to the characterful V6 and its always-sweet soundtrack that dynamically shifts with throttle opening.
The consensus celebrated the hybrid system’s seamless integration. However, a notable incident on the final judging night, where a depleted battery left the car stranded, served as a stark reminder of potential challenges. Ferrari had indeed cautioned about this possibility and provided guidelines for prevention. Nevertheless, the oversight in engineering a simple fail-safe, especially from a company known for innovations like individual rear-wheel steering, was a point of concern for some, as Gallagher noted. Fortunately, this occurred after all scoring was completed.
Ferrari’s signature hyper-quick steering, while divisive, was a prominent talking point. The brake feel, though competent, didn’t quite match the very best in class, and the tech interface drew widespread criticism for its complexity. Despite these points, the 296 GTB’s allure was undeniable. Vivian admitted to being “somewhat bewitched” by its capabilities, including its uncanny directional changes, phenomenal damping, and “looney-tunes levels of grip,” alongside a “linearity of seemingly never-ending power.”
The 296 GTB truly represented a significant return to form for Ferrari, especially after the SF90 left some judges feeling less enthused. As Sutcliffe articulated, the 296 GTB was “way more successful because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels much more natural, and far less intrusive.” Gallagher concurred, stating that Ferrari had learned immensely from the SF90, distilling its knowledge into a series production model that stands as one of its very best.
The Price of Progress and the Looming Shadow of Lamborghini
When a vehicle is so heavily laden with cutting-edge technology, there’s always a risk that the sum might not quite equal its parts. This was a sentiment echoed in our assessment of the SF90, which, while dazzling with its raw power, left us somewhat unnerved by its challenging driving characteristics.
However, the Ferrari 296 GTB represents a fundamentally different proposition. As evidenced by its joint third-place finish alongside the McLaren Artura in the 2022 Evo Car of the Year competition, it strikes a remarkable sweet spot. Its harmonious blend of immense power and deeply engaging dynamics redefines what a supercar in the £250,000 price bracket can and should be. Rumors of a ‘Versione Speciale’ variant, promising even greater power and intensity, are circulating, and the hope is that this enhanced performance will not come at the expense of the standard car’s inexplicably natural and rewarding driving feel.
It is precisely this aspect of the 296 GTB’s character – its organic, engaging nature – that we hope Lamborghini has meticulously focused on when honing its upcoming hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is an obscene amount of power to wield in a series-production supercar, and it has the potential to overwhelm the chassis if not expertly managed. If Lamborghini has indeed hit the mark, as their recent success with the Revuelto suggests they might, then we are on the cusp of an epic twin-test, pitting two titans of hybrid performance against each other.
Adding further spice to the mix, a triple threat could involve the McLaren 750S, which, by comparison, now appears almost diminutive with its 740bhp. However, the McLaren brings a welcome lightness to the table, with a curb weight of just 1389kg, resulting in a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw character, ergonomic brilliance, crisp steering, and deft chassis dynamics still mark it as a formidable, and arguably more direct, counterpoint to the comparatively more complex Ferrari.
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
Price: £250,000+
The journey of the supercar is in a constant state of evolution. The Ferrari 296 GTB has undeniably set a new benchmark. If you’re ready to explore the pinnacle of hybrid supercar performance and understand how this marvel redefines automotive excellence, we invite you to delve deeper into the latest innovations and perhaps schedule a consultation with our performance vehicle specialists to discuss your next extraordinary acquisition.
