From the April 2022 issue of Car and Driver.
By now it's pretty obvious the machines have won, so bow down before our new robot masters. Technology, however, has been seen as a diluter and polluter of the involvement and interaction that exemplifies sports cars, a notion that dates as far back as the advent of power steering. In recent years the list of high-tech aids has turned into a heap: stability control, yaw control, torque-biasing differentials, electric power steering, brake-by-wire, active aerodynamics, and hybrid assistance. The Ferrari 296GTB has them all and more and yet still delivers a driving experience that feels as pure and uncorrupted as its most analog predecessor. And its hidden cleverness makes piloting this 819-hp part-electric supercar and accessing a high percentage of its towering talents feel almost ridiculously easy.
The biggest news is the arrival of Ferrari's first road-going V-6 since the 246 GT Dino retired in 1974. And as the Dino never got to wear the Cavallino Rampante shield (at least not officially), that makes this the first V-6–powered Ferrari street car. The new engine displaces 3.0 liters and uses two turbochargers set within the V of its widely spaced cylinder banks, which are 120 degrees apart. Each turbo boosts three cylinders, their potency evinced by the engine's 654-hp output, which Ferrari claims is the highest per-liter figure of any production car currently on sale.
Electric assistance comes from an advanced 164-hp axial-flux motor that sits between the V-6 and the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. A third clutch can separate the combustion engine from the driveline, allowing the 296GTB to operate solely under electric power, though it can only do this for relatively brief periods at speeds of up to 84 mph. The 6.0-kWh battery pack behind the seats provides an estimated 10 miles of range. Unless locked into its electric drive mode via the steering-wheel-mounted selection switch, officially known as the eManettino, the GTB will fire the V-6 to life if anything more than the top inch or so of the accelerator travel is used.
Ferrari's engineers dubbed the new engine the piccolo V-12 while developing it, and it does a convincing aural impression of a 12-cylinder under the sort of hard use we couldn't resist giving it, revving to an 8500-rpm limiter with unbridled enthusiasm. At lower engine speeds, there's no mistaking the turbocharging, with an induction sound like a rushing stream, until the exhaust note and mechanical symphony grow loud enough to mask it. But the instant response of the electric motor means there is no discernible turbo lag—the electric motor actually dials back its contribution slightly as boost pressures build to keep the power delivery as linear as possible.
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With the powertrain giving its all, the 296GTB feels every bit as fast as 819 horsepower suggests. The new car is less quick than the more powerful, all-wheel-drive SF90 Stradale that sits above it in the company's hybrid hierarchy, but only slightly. Acceleration is wicked, and we estimate launch control will deliver a 2.9-second 60-mph time and a quarter-mile in the nines. And the 296GTB's 1:21 lap time at Ferrari's Fiorano Circuit is only two seconds slower than the Stradale (and 1.5 seconds quicker than the V-8-powered F8 Tributo.)
Despite its outlandish output and rear-wheel drive, this Ferrari, shod with street-friendly Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, exhibited colossal grip on Spanish mountain roads—the traction control using varying regen from the electric motor to prevent slip without the need to wind back the engine. On the tight, dusty Monteblanco circuit near Seville, another GTB equipped with the track-oriented Assetto Fiorano package and riding on Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires had even better adhesion but stayed benign as its elevated limits were deliberately breached. Raffaele de Simone, Ferrari's chief development driver, was insistent we experience the 296GTB with its traction control switched off, and the resulting yaw angles were expertly managed by the Side Slip Control system. This car is no harder to drift on a track than a Mazda Miata.
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Even among the many other technical highlights, the GTB's steering and brakes stood out. The rack uses electric power assistance, yet it manages to deliver feedback that feels entirely natural and unfiltered, reporting accurately on everything from surface texture changes to slip angles under the hardest track use. The electrically boosted brakes have removed the direct hydraulic link between the pedal and the calipers that grip carbon-ceramic discs, but the weighting and responses seem just as true. An active feature adds both the ability to pre-charge the system ahead of hard stops and to subtly clamp individual brakes to help shepherd the front end into corners.
The presence of so much technology should probably make the 296GTB feel lacking in emotional engagement, but the reality is anything but. The assistance is invisible—helping the car to slow, turn, and deploy its enormous power, without diminishing the visceral excitement that comes from unleashing so much sound and fury. It isn't as raw as the V-8-powered F8 Tributo that will sit closest to it in the Ferrari hierarchy, but the 296GTB honestly doesn't feel like any less of an experience.
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The more obvious comparison is with Ferrari's other plug-in hybrid. The 296GTB's V-6 and rear-wheel-drive position it below the 986-hp, all-wheel-drive SF90 Stradale; the new car is also a claimed 220 pounds lighter, smaller, and—to our eyes—more elegantly proportioned, especially when viewed from the side. The lack of all-wheel drive also means the GTB never suffers from the slight steering corruption the Stradale sometimes gets from its powered front axle. The 296GTB's $322,986 price also makes it nearly $200,000 cheaper. It's definitely not $200,000 worse.
The 296GTB's cabin feels plenty spacious for a two-seater Ferrari, and there is even a respectable amount of luggage space in the front trunk. At the back, the glass engine cover shows off both the V-6 and, in a very 2022 twist, the orange high-voltage cables that take current to the electrical motor. Complaints are limited to small annoyances: a clumsy infotainment system and Ferrari's continued enthusiasm for putting all switches onto the steering wheel. The result is ergonomic confusion, especially with audio controls, the headlight flasher, and the windshield washer fighting for space on the back of the wheel. Usability would be improved by a couple of old-fashioned column stalks.
The 296GTB stands as proof that hybridization and increasing technology in ultra-performance machinery doesn't need to be feared. At least, not when Ferrari does it. It has taken huge effort to make something so complex appear so simple, a digital supercar that manages to feel almost entirely analog. It is both a technical masterpiece and as thrilling as any Ferrari should be.
Specifications
Specifications
2022 Ferrari 296GTB
Vehicle Type: mid-engine, mid-motor, rear-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 2-door coupe
PRICE
Base: $322,986
POWERTRAIN
twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve 3.0-liter V-6, 654 hp, 546 lb-ft + AC motor, 164 hp, 232 lb-ft (combined output: 819 hp, 546 lb-ft; 6.0-kWh lithium-ion battery pack)
TRANSMISSION
8-speed dual-clutch automatic
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 102.4 in
Length: 179.7 in
Width: 77.1 in
Height: 46.7 in
Cargo Volume: 7 ft3
Curb Weight: 3700 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)
60 mph: 2.9 sec
100 mph: 5.7 sec
1/4-Mile: 9.7 sec
Top Speed: 205 mph
EPA FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST)
Combined/City/Highway: 20/18/22 mpg
Combined Gas + Electric: 60 MPGe
EV Range: 10 mi
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FAQs
Is Ferrari 296 GTB Limited Edition? ›
The Ferrari 296 GTB is limited to just 199 pieces at 1:8 scale.
What is the EV range of Ferrari 296 GTB? ›The 296 GTB is the first V6-powered Ferrari road car (the delectable 246 GT Dino never wore the prancing horse emblem in-period), the first to feature a 'hot-vee' turbocharger installation, and it's also a plug-in hybrid, with an EV-only range of around 15 miles.
What is the top speed of a 2022 Ferrari 296 GTB? ›- Curb weight: 3,527 pounds.
- Seating capacity: 2.
- 0-60: 2.7 seconds (est.)
- Top speed: 205-plus mph.
- Cargo volume: NA.
- EPA fuel economy: TBA.
- Quick take: Even though it's a hybrid, the 296 GTB is still quintessentially a Ferrari. And a fast one at that.
- Score: 9/10.
The system output is given as 610 kW (818 hp; 829 PS). A high-voltage accumulator positioned under the floor with an energy capacity of 7.45 kWh (26.8 MJ) enables an electrical range of 25 km (16 mi). The sports car accelerates to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 2.9 seconds, the top speed is specified as over 330 km/h (205 mph).
Which Ferrari is best for daily use? ›The Ferrari FF is one of the most underrated Ferraris in my opinion. It's got a massive 6.2L V12 with over 650HP and 500ft-lb of torque! Add in 4 seats, all wheel drive, and a huge hatchback and suddenly you have a very practical daily driver that hauls!
What is the 0 to 60 of a 296 GTB? ›Ferrari says the 296 GTB will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in less than 2.9 seconds, and to 124 mph in 7.3 seconds on the way to a top speed of more than 205 mph.
Is a Tesla car faster than a Ferrari? ›...
Tesla Model S Plaid vs. Ferrari SF90 Stradale specs comparison.
| Tesla Model S Plaid | Ferrari SF90 Stradale | |
|---|---|---|
| Top speed | 200 mph (322 km/h)* | 211 mph (340 km/h) |
But the Tesla betters the Ferrari by skyrocketing to sixty in just 2.55 seconds and covering the quarter mile in 9.8 seconds at an astonishing 147 mph, versus the latter doing the same at 132.2 mph.
What is considered high mileage for a Ferrari? ›As a general rule of thumb, around 5,000 miles a year is considered “low miles,” and around 15,000 miles a year is considered “high miles.” To make matters more confusing, exotic cars play by a completely different set of rules than your average used car.
What is faster a Ford GT or a Ferrari? ›During the practice laps, the 427 set the lap record at 3:33, almost five seconds faster than the Ferraris! Ken Miles received his wish as he and Bruce McLaren teamed up to drive one of the GT40X cars. While the Ford had set the lap record, the race was an unmitigated disaster.
Is the Ferrari 296 a replacement for the F8? ›
The 296 GTB is a replacement for the special Ferrari F8 Tributo, and we have to say that both cars look similar. However, there are many design details and features that set the 296 GTB and the F8 Tributo apart.
What is the difference between Ferrari 296 GTB and GTS? ›Staying true to Ferrari's quintessential design language, the 296 GTS is gorgeous. The GTS looks exactly like the GTB; the only difference being the retractable hardtop on the GTS.
What is the 0 to 60 of a 296 Ferrari? ›Ferrari is claiming 0-62 mph in 2.9 seconds, 0-124 mph in 7.3 seconds, and a top speed exceeding 205 mph.
Is the Ferrari 296 GTB a plug in hybrid? ›Ferrari 296 GTB: A Plug-in Hybrid That Celebrates Excess.
How much is a 2023 Ferrari 296 GTB? ›With the berlinetta version starting at over $320,000, and Ferrari typically adding a mark-up of around $20k to spider models, we predict the Ferrari 296 GTS price will be at least $340,000.
What is the most comfortable Ferrari to drive? ›The California is arguably the most comfortable and usable car that Ferrari now produces, and it is a remarkably easy car to live with.
Do Ferraris need alot of maintenance? ›While it can vary based on model and year, generally, the average yearly Ferrari maintenance costs range between $1,500 and $2,000.
Which is the best looking Ferrari? ›- Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder. ...
- Ferrari 365 GTB4 'Daytona' ...
- Ferrari F40. ...
- Ferrari 458 Speciale. ...
- Ferrari 296 GTB.
- Lamborghini Aventador SVJ - 2.8 seconds (0-62mph)
- Koenigsegg Regera - 2.8 seconds (0-62mph)
- Caterham Seven 620R - 2.8 seconds (0-60mph)
- Mclaren Elva - 2.8 seconds (0-62mph)
- Mercedes-AMG One - 2.9-seconds (0-62mph)
- Ferrari 296 GTB - 2.9 seconds (0-62mph)
- Ferrari 296 GTB - 2.9 seconds (0-62mph) ...
- Mercedes-AMG One - 2.9 seconds (0-62mph) ...
- Mclaren Elva - 2.8 seconds (0-62mph) ...
- Caterham Seven 620R - 2.8 seconds (0-60mph) ...
- Koenigsegg Regera - 2.8 seconds (0-62mph) ...
- Lamborghini Aventador SVJ - 2.8 seconds (0-62mph)
What was the fastest 0 to 60 car in the 90s? ›
Lamborghini Diablo VTTT
The 0-60 mph time was aided by the Diablos AWD system, able to somewhat deploy all that power in such as way as to rocket the VTTT from 0 – 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds.
Some key differences are pronounced by each maker. Ferrari offers a long heritage of racing history and a certain nostalgia and prestige that many drivers want. Lamborghini provides more power and innovation, setting itself apart as a car maker that grabs your interest and doesn't let go.
Is a Ferrari faster than a Porsche? ›...
Comparison chart.
| Ferrari | Porsche | |
|---|---|---|
| Top Speed For the Fastest Ferrari/Porsche | 211 mph (Ferrari's F12berlinetta) | 211 mph (Porsche's 911 GT2 RS) |
It covers the quarter-mile in 9.89 seconds, while the Lambo does the same in 11.13. Both vehicles are faster in the second heat, but the Model X Plaid again comes out on top, making it to the finish line in 9.84 seconds compared to the Huracán Evo's 10.84 seconds.
What can beat a Tesla in a quarter-mile? ›However, in this instance the three vehicles were tested over a quarter-mile and on such a short distance, the Lucid Air Sapphire was the unquestionable winner. By the end of the run the Lucid was traveling at 156 mph (251 km/h), while the Tesla reached 152 mph (244.6 km/h).
Which Ferrari is the rarest? ›However, this 1984 Ferrari 328 Convertible (serial number 49543) is the rarest of them all, being the only one in existence.
What fast cars can a Tesla beat? ›- 21 Lamborghini Countach (4.8 Seconds) ...
- 20 McLaren F1 (3.0 Seconds) ...
- 19 Ferrari 488 (3.0 Seconds) ...
- 18 2019 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 (3.0 Seconds) ...
- 17 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 (2.85 Seconds) ...
- 16 2019 BMW M5 (2.8 Seconds) ...
- 15 2021 Nissan GT-R NISMO (2.7 Seconds)
Hold Their Value
Much like all vehicles, Ferrari's do depreciation in value which means that they are constantly losing value. While this is true, you will also find that supercars retain their value much better than your typical car.
For fuel distance — the time between fill-ups — it was a 1-2-3 Ferrari sweep. The California went 742.9km before needing a refill, the 458 Spider 728.8km and the 458 Italia stayed driving for 646.6km.
How long do Ferrari tires last? ›The last four numbers of the DOT code indicate the week and year that the tires were manufactured. The Ferrari service manual recommends replacing tires every 4years.
Is Ferrari faster than Corvette? ›
Comparing the Ferrari F8 vs. Corvette C8 on speed, you'll notice that the two models are more or less neck-and-neck—at least for short sprints. The F8 goes from 0 to 62 mph in 2.9 seconds; the Corvette C8 goes from 0 to 60 in 2.6. However, the Ferrari F8 can reach a higher top speed: 211 mph.
Does miles slow down in Ford vs Ferrari? ›It's true that Ken Miles had been minutes ahead of the other cars, but due to self-serving instructions from Ford, combined with a technicality, Miles was given second place instead of first. Ford management had indeed instructed him to slow down so that all three of their cars could cross the finish line together.
Is the Ford GT faster than a Corvette? ›The GT may be faster in a straight line, but the Z06 stands out in plenty of other ways in a head-to-head track test. We already know the C8-generation Corvette Z06 is an exceptional car, America's take on the glorious days of naturally-aspirated, mid-engined Ferraris at Corvette prices and production numbers.
How much does a Ferrari 296 cost? ›But, before you opt for one, are you wondering, “How much is a Ferrari 296 GTB?” Our experts are here to help. The 2022 Ferrari 296 GTB price is close to $322,986.
Is it true you can't modify a Ferrari? ›While Ferrari allows subtle modifications to new cars, just to make them unique, they do not like big changes while the car is still under contract and being financed. However, one subtle modification they do not allow at all is when new owners change the Prancing Horse logo on their cars.
Is the F8 faster than the 812? ›...
Specifications.
| Top Speed (Kmph) | |
|---|---|
| 340 | |
| 604 | |
| Drivetrain | |
| RWD | RWD |
Ferrari F140
It has since evolved to its current peak as a 6.5L power plant – dubbed the F140 GA – which produces 819 hp @ 9,250 rpm and 510 lb-ft of torque @ 7,000 rpm in the 812 Competizione; this makes it the most powerful naturally-aspirated production car engine ever produced to this day.
The 488 GTB name marks a return to the classic Ferrari model designation with the 488 in its moniker indicating the engine's unitary displacement, while the GTB stands for Gran Turismo Berlinetta.
What is the range of a 296 GTS? ›Ferrari 296 GTS 0–124 MPH Acceleration: 7.6 seconds. Ferrari 296 GTS Electric Range: 15 miles.
What is the fastest Ferrari in mph? ›What is the fastest v8 Ferrari? ›
The Ferrari 488 Pista was officially presented at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show.
What is the fastest Ferrari right now? ›The most powerful Ferrari right now is the SF90 Stradale plug-in hybrid. It puts out 986 horsepower, courtesy of the twin-turbo V-8 and the three electric motors. Even more amazing is the fact that this is a series-production model and not a limited-production model like the Ferrari Enzo or F50.
What is the rarest Ferrari? ›What about the iconic 250 GTO? There were 36 of those. Even the Ferrari F40 is positively common with a fleet of 1,311 being built. However, this 1984 Ferrari 328 Convertible (serial number 49543) is the rarest of them all, being the only one in existence.
What is the rarest type of Ferrari? ›- 8 P540 Superfast Aperta.
- 7 365 California Spyder.
- 6 400 Superamerica SWB Coupe Aerodinamico by Pininfarina.
- 5 F50 Bolide.
- 4 408 4RM.
- 3 365 GTC/4 Beach Car by Felber.
- 2 SP12 EC.
- 1 Pinin.
Who owns the $70 million Ferrari? Because, during that year, a man named David MacNeil of Chicago, USA, the founder of the automotive accessory manufacturer WeatherTech, bought a silver 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO (chassis number #4293GT) for a jaw-dropping $70 million. The highest price ever paid for a car.
What is considered the poor man's Ferrari? ›The second-generation Toyota MR2 was released as a mid-engined affordable sports car. When the MKII Toyota MR2 was launched, it not only offered performance on a budget but drawing styling cues from the Ferrari 348 meant that the second-generation MR2 was dubbed the “poor man's Ferrari”.