Ferrari claims the 296 Speciale is its most driver-focused model to date and offers a noticeable evolution over the already spectacular 296 GTB. So it’s no wonder our mouths are watering before we’ve even opened the door.
The 296 GTB has set the bar extremely high, but Maranello doesn’t stand still. The new 296 Speciale joins a prestigious range of race-ready Ferrari special models, including the 360 ​​Challenge Stradale, 430 Scuderia, 458 Speciale and 488 Pista. With production limited to just two years and already fully contracted out to select customers, this isn’t a car that needs to win over fans.
Visually, the Speciale is characterized by a larger front splitter and a central air duct that directs the airflow from the nose over the hood up over the windshield and roof. The main feature is the active rear wing, which introduces an intermediate position to balance grip, braking and top speed. It produces 435kg of downforce at 250km/h – more than the standard 296 GTB or Assetto Fiorano, but still behind the 911 GT3 RS (409kg at 200km/h and 806kg at 285km/h).
As with any stripped-down Ferrari, weight reduction is a priority. The Speciale is 60kg lighter than the GTB, bringing the dry weight down to just 1,410kg. There’s no carpet, minimal sound insulation, more carbon fiber, lighter bucket seats and even the hybrid V6 is 9kg lighter thanks to components derived from the upcoming F80. The powertrain remains a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 with 515 kW (700 hp), supported by a 113 kW electric motor. The boost pressure has increased by 13 percent. The electric motor mounted between the engine and 8-speed dual clutch transmission enables fully electric driving at up to 135 km/h and a range of 25 km. An overboost function delivers an additional 132 kW, powered by a 7.4 kWh lithium-ion battery that can be charged up to 7 kW.
Inside it is simple but purposeful. There is no central infotainment display – everything is displayed in the digital instrument cluster in front of the driver. The materials are bespoke, carbon and Alcantara trim is available. The noise level is high, but that’s part of the appeal. There’s barely any storage space, just 169 liters in the front boot, and no lifting system for the nose – an omission that Ferrari’s Rafael de Simone said would impact the weight too much.
When the track is finally dry, it’s time to accelerate. The steering is razor-sharp, requiring just 1.75 turns from lock to lock. There is little difference in driving feel between driving modes, which Ferrari says is intentional to maintain predictability in the response of the steering, drivetrain and brakes. What changes is the level of energy recovery and the intensity of the electrical boost depending on the mode selected. All-electric driving is possible for stealthy commutes or city trips, but that’s not the reason anyone is buying this car.
The Speciale really comes to life on the track. The front axle sticks like glue, turning is addictive and the linear surge of power at corner exit is astonishing. Who cares about 0-100 or 0-200 km/h times when the driving experience is so good? Top speed is over 330 km/h, but it’s the balance, the blistering gear changes and the electric torque that make it so exhilarating.
Is the price of 407,000 euros worth it when you consider that the 296 GTB offers 90 percent of the driving experience for well over 100,000 euros less? It depends on. For many, the Speciale is about more than just numbers. It’s about rarity, feeling and being part of a legacy.
