Sculpted by Flavio Manzoni, there’s no denying that Ferrari’s latest creation, the 296 GTB is a looker. With a sleeker, more subtle approach than the marque’s other more recent offerings, the V6-powered Ferrari harks back to the graceful Ferrari’s of yore.
Despite the V6 powertrain, Ferrari says their latest creation will be positioned fairly high up the Prancing Horse food chain. They’re also saying that it’s the brand’s first V6-powered car, although true Ferrari enthusiasts are aware of the Dino of the 60’s. Technically, those cars never wore the famed Ferrari badge, making the 296 GTB the first true Ferrari with V6 power.
The twin-turbo 3,0-litre V6 is mated to an electric motor, sending its power to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Power is decidedly monumental, with 610 kW and 740 Nm of torque on offer. 0-100 km/h is dispatched in just 2.9 seconds. More impressively, 0-200 km/h is dealt with in 7.3 seconds. The 296 GTB is capable of 330 km/h. Part of this phenomenal performance must be down to the featherweight mass, the 296 GTB tipping the scales at just under 1.5 tons.
The electric motor helps not only with performance, but is rather environmentally friendly too. The Prancing Horse claims the 296 GTB can travel up to 25 km on silent electric power.
Inside, the interior reflects the exterior’s subtle, clean design approach. While classy - trimmed in fine leather and high-quality materials - the 296 GTB still has a very driver-centric approach. Many of the controls are housed on the steering wheel, with very little cluttering the minimalist facia.
Also worth a look: the Ferrari F80: Where Retro Design Meets Futuristic Fury and the The countdown to the Ferrari Limited-Edition V12 has begun .
FAQ
Q: What does the Ferrari 296 GTB cost in South Africa?
The Ferrari 296 GTB carries a hefty price tag of around R4,500,000 to R5,200,000 in South Africa, depending on options and current exchange rates.
Q: How powerful is the Ferrari 296 GTB?
The 296 GTB produces a massive 610 kW and 740 Nm of torque from its twin-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain, making it one of Ferrari's most powerful V6 models ever.
Q: Is the Ferrari 296 GTB worth buying over other supercars?
The 296 GTB offers exceptional performance with 0-100 kph in 2.9 seconds and stunning looks, but at over R5 million, it's competing with McLaren 720S and Lamborghini Huracan territory where personal preference matters most.
Q: Can the Ferrari 296 GTB run on electric power only?
Yes, the 296 GTB can travel up to 25 kilometres on pure electric power, making it surprisingly practical for short urban trips without waking the neighbours.
Q: How fast is the Ferrari 296 GTB compared to other Ferraris?
With a top speed of 330 kph and 0-200 kph in just 7.3 seconds, the 296 GTB matches or exceeds many of Ferrari's V8 models despite having fewer cylinders.
Should You Buy It?
The Ferrari 296 GTB is absolutely worth considering if you've got R5 million burning a hole in your pocket and want the most beautiful hybrid supercar money can buy. This isn't just another pretty face, it's a properly quick machine that'll embarrass most V8 supercars while sipping fuel like a hybrid hatchback when you're stuck in Sandton traffic. The combination of 610 kW, drop-dead gorgeous looks, and that classic Ferrari soundtrack makes it a compelling choice over the McLaren 720S or Lamborghini Huracan at similar money. Sure, some purists might grumble about the V6 engine, but one drive will shut them up quickly. If you can afford it and appreciate automotive artistry, the 296 GTB deserves serious consideration.
