Ferrari 296 Speciale after "slimming diet". New version for speed fans and collectors
Four years after the premiere of the 296 GTB models, Ferrari presents a special version intended for track enthusiasts and collectors. The Speciale has a dizzying 868 horsepower and is designed to guarantee maximum fun with
driving.
The tradition has been cultivated since the 360 Modena model (from 1999) , which was the first to receive a hardcore special version - Challenge Stradale. After it , the F430 Scuderia, 458 Speciale, 488 Pista were shown. Only the F8 Tributo model was omitted from this cycle - due to the pandemic, poor sales and the manufacturer's focus on the development of a hybrid platform for the current model: 296 GTB.
Ferrari 296 Speciale / press materialsThe heart of the 296 Speciale is a 120° V6 engine with two turbines and a dry sump. The three-litre design develops 700 horsepower, and when supplemented by an electric motor, it reaches 880 horsepower. With this result, the Speciale goes down in history as the most powerful rear-wheel drive Ferrari.
Power is transferred to the wheels via an eight-speed DCT gearbox. A byproduct of energy production – exhaust fumes – is directed out of the engine bay via a new, ultra-lightweight titanium exhaust system designed to enhance the acoustic experience in the cabin.
Ferrari 296 Speciale / press materialsThe base 296 GTB, designed by Flavio Manzioni's team, is a very sleek car whose styling harks back to classic Ferrari models from the 1960s.
The Speciale has been sprouted with functional extras aimed at improving aerodynamics. The biggest visual changes are at the rear of the car, where a larger diffuser and a two-part spoiler, similar to the one on the FXX K, have appeared.
At the front, the airflow between the bumper and the window has been redesigned, and flatter components have been used under the car, sucking the whole thing down to the road. The result? 435 kg of downforce at 250 km/h.
Grip is provided by Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tires, with a special design developed for the 296 Speciale.
Ferrari 296 Speciale / press materialsThe driver's cabin is dominated by two materials: carbon fiber and Alcantara. The door panels are made of carbon monobloc. The same is true for the center console and sports seats. The dashboard panorama is covered in reflective Alcantara.
The steering wheel, dominated by haptic buttons, features one mechanical switch – responsible for changing driving modes.
Ferrari 296 Speciale / press materialsThe whole slimming treatment had a good effect: minus 60 kg. The buyer's wallet will undergo another slimming treatment: €407,000 for the coupé and €462,000 for the spider - that is, over €100,000 more than for the basic version.
