The Ferrari 296 Speciale

Ferrari 296 Speciale: Setting Standards for Hybrid Supercars

With the unveiling of the Ferrari 296 Speciale, Ferrari has added another storied chapter to its lineage of track-focused berlinettas. Following the revered footsteps of the Challenge Stradale, 430 Scuderia, 458 Speciale, and 488 Pista, the Ferrari 296 Speciale is a masterclass in race-bred refinement, making it not just the ultimate expression of the 296 GTB platform, but a benchmark for modern hybrid supercars. For those who crave visceral driving engagement wrapped in technical brilliance, this is the machine that rewrites expectations.

The Ferrari 296 Speciale harnesses a revolutionary plug-in hybrid powertrain that pairs a 120° twin-turbo V6 with an uprated electric motor to produce a staggering 880 horsepower. That’s 50 horses more than the standard 296 GTB, thanks to F1-derived tech like a new knock control system, titanium conrods, a lightened crankshaft, and a fine-tuned boost strategy borrowed from the 296 Challenge race car. Ferrari didn’t just add power—they dialed up emotion. The V6 roars with an amplified soundtrack, echoing through specially tuned ducts that deliver cabin-filling harmonics across the 3rd, 6th, and 9th combustion orders.

The Speciale’s electric motor now delivers 180 cv in Qualify “extra boost” mode— synced with an optimized 8-speed DCT that shifts harder and faster. The other three modes include eDrive, Hybrid, and Performance.

In eDrive, the internal combustion engine is off, relying solely on the MGU-K for up to 25 km, making it ideal for urban driving with a top speed of 135 km/h. The Hybrid mode serves as the default setting, optimizing energy flow by determining when to engage the internal combustion engine, with a top speed of 125 km/h, suitable for both urban and extra-urban environments. For those seeking an exhilarating ride, the Performance mode keeps the internal combustion engine running for immediate power delivery, perfect for spirited driving. This mode sharpens the already precise driving experience, achieving a remarkable 0-100 km/h time of just 2.8 seconds and a top speed exceeding 330 km/h. While the raw performance places the Speciale in elite company, it is the predictability and composure at the limit that truly differentiate this car from others.

Ferrari 296 Speciale: Aerodynamics, Agility, and Artistry Collide

While the powertrain headlines the spec sheet, it’s the chassis and aero package that define the Ferrari 296 Speciale’s road and track demeanor. With 435 kg of downforce at 250 km/h—20% more than the 296 GTB—the car sticks with authority. Innovations include an aero damper integrated into the front bonnet and sculpted rear fins that blend seamlessly with a revised active spoiler. A new Medium Downforce mode was also introduced to balance top-speed stability and track cornering prowess.

Weight has been obsessively trimmed by 60 kg compared to the GTB, resulting in a category-leading power-to-weight ratio of just 1.60 kg/cv. From the use of titanium bolts and carbon fiber panels to the stripped-down interior lined with Alcantara and bare carbon, everything about the Speciale is purposeful. Even the braking system received motorsport-inspired upgrades to handle the additional performance stress, with ducting improvements derived from the F80 and 296 Challenge.

Handling is sharpened with a stiffer suspension setup, 5 mm lower ride height, Multimatic dampers, and bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tires that push the lateral grip envelope. Ferrari’s ABS Evo system, tuned in harmony with a 6D sensor, ensures the braking feel is consistent and confidence-inspiring in any condition.

A specialized version of the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tire was created for the 296 Speciale, using insights from the F80. The design utilized virtual simulation, cutting development time from 18 to 12 months. This tire has a specific casing structure for improved wall stiffness and lateral rigidity, along with a new tread compound that enhances grip.

Visually, the Ferrari 296 Speciale takes the GTB’s elegant form and injects it with aggressive motorsport DNA. Louvered fenders, a floating front splitter, side winglets, and a stripped rear deck give the car unmistakable purpose. Inside, the driver-focused layout now features carbon door panels, a raised shift-gate console, and race-ready minimalism. It’s Ferrari distilled—fewer distractions, more soul.

About The Author

Allan Lane

Philadelphia born and bred, Allan Lane is the Publisher and Editor in Chief of digital magazines. He launched his first publication, SportBikes Inc Magazine in 2010, followed by dosage MAGAZINE in 2019. Recently, Allan launched his third online publication, Club For Man. As a journalist, Allan covers fashion, lifestyle, culture, art, and motorcycles.

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