title:Ferrari 296 GTB Review: Is This Hybrid Supercar Worth It?
content:Ferrari 296 GTB: Hybrid Soul Meets Supercar Legacy
If you’ve ever wondered whether a hybrid Ferrari can capture the soul of its V8 predecessors, the 296 GTB is the car to answer that question. Autocar’s review dives deep into this mid-engine supercar—covering everything from its innovative V6 hybrid setup to how it feels on both winding roads and racetracks. After analyzing this video, I believe the 296 GTB isn’t just a compliance car; it’s a masterclass in balancing modern tech with Ferrari’s iconic driving experience.
Key Specs & Hybrid Tech: Beyond the Numbers
The 296 GTB’s heart is a 3-liter V6 with a 120-degree V angle and turbos mounted between the banks—producing 654 hp on its own. Paired with a 164 hp electric motor (sandwiched between the engine and 8-speed dual-clutch transmission), total output hits 819 hp. Ferrari’s official specs confirm a 7.5 kWh battery delivers 15 miles of EV range, and while the hybrid system adds around 100 kg, the lighter V6 (35 kg less than the F8’s V8) and shorter wheelbase (50 mm) keep total weight gain to just 35 kg (dry weight: 1470 kg).
What makes this setup stand out? The 120-degree V angle isn’t just for packaging—it lowers the center of gravity, a critical detail for handling. And unlike some hybrids, the 296 GTB’s electric motor doesn’t feel like an afterthought; it integrates seamlessly with the petrol engine to deliver linear power.
content:Driving Experience: Road Comfort & Track Aggression
On the road, the 296 GTB surprises with its approachability. The steering ratio is quicker than the F8 Tributo, but it doesn’t feel nervous—instead, it has a smooth take-up of weight that makes it easy to place on winding roads. The brake-by-wire system is so seamless you’d never know it lacks a hydraulic link, a testament to Ferrari’s engineering.
Then there’s the sound. Ferrari’s “hot tube” tech (a resonator linking the exhaust to the cabin) accentuates the V6’s third-order harmonics, making it sound closer to a V12 than a typical V6. The video’s reviewer notes it’s as satisfying as a turbo V8—high praise for a six-cylinder.
On the track (Circuit Monte Blanco), the 296 GTB comes alive. In Qualifying mode, the hybrid system delivers full power, and the car’s agility shines. Even with traction control off, it slides predictably—never feeling nervous or unmanageable. The optional Fiorano package (25k pounds) swaps adaptive dampers for Multimatic passive units, ideal for track enthusiasts who want more feedback.
content:Legacy Comparison & Exclusive Insights
The 296 GTB replaces the F8 Tributo, but it’s more than just an update. While it’s 35 kg heavier, the hybrid power and shorter wheelbase make it feel just as agile. The SF90’s hybrid tech laid the groundwork, but the 296 GTB refines it to prioritize driver engagement—something the SF90 sometimes lacked.
For long-time Ferrari fans, the loss of the V8 might seem like a step back, but the 296’s V6 hybrid setup proves that performance and efficiency can coexist without sacrificing soul. This car isn’t just a response to emissions rules; it’s a forward-thinking evolution of Ferrari’s mid-engine legacy.
content:Toolbox & Actionable Steps
Quick Checklist for Prospective Buyers
- Test the EV mode in urban areas to see if the 15-mile range fits your daily needs.
- Try the track mode with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires (ensure they’re warm—70 degrees Celsius is optimal).
- Compare the 296 GTB with the F8 Tributo to feel the difference in hybrid vs. pure petrol performance.
- Ask about the Fiorano package if you plan to track the car regularly.
Recommended Resources
- Autocar’s Ferrari Reviews: Trusted for in-depth, hands-on analysis (like this 296 GTB review).
- Ferrari’s Official Specs Page: Get the latest details on the 296 GTB’s tech and options.
content:Final Thoughts & Engagement
The Ferrari 296 GTB is a triumph—proving that hybrid tech can enhance, not diminish, a supercar’s soul. It balances blistering performance with daily drivability, making it one of the best mid-engine Ferraris yet.
Which aspect of the 296 GTB interests you most? Is it the hybrid efficiency, the V6 sound, or its track capabilities? Share your thoughts in the comments below!