Everything You Should Know About Ferrari 296 GTS
The Ferrari 296 GTS revolutionizes the luxury sports car scene as a stunning convertible counterpart to the 296 GTB. With its powerful hybrid V6 engine and sleek design, the 296 GTS combines exhilarating performance with the freedom of open-top driving. In this guide, we will see the features, performance, and unique features of the Ferrari 296 GTS, showcasing what makes it a standout in Ferrari’s iconic lineup.
A Complete Ferrari 296 GTS Review
The Ferrari 296 GTS represents a bold step forward for Ferrari, combining the thrill of open-air driving with cutting-edge hybrid technology. This convertible version of the 296 GTB retains much of the coupe’s performance while adding the unique appeal of a retractable hardtop. Below is a comprehensive review of the Ferrari 296 GTS, exploring its key attributes and what makes it an exceptional choice among high-performance sports cars.
1. Design of Ferrari 296 GTS
Ferrari 296 GTS is a name synonymous with elegance and exceptional performance. Its design is a testament to both form and function, harmonizing aerodynamics with stunning aesthetics.
Exterior Design
A signature feature of the 296 GTS is its Aero Bridge, an aesthetically pleasing feature that facilitates an open-air driving experience without compromising the vehicle’s design. The Horizontal Engine Decklid Window offers a sneak peek into the heart of the Ferrari. This feature allows visual access to its beautifully designed engine, an embodiment of Italian craftsmanship at its finest.
Interior Design
Inside the Ferrari 296 GTS, it’s all about luxury and exclusivity. This model offers a cabin experience that’s unparalleled on the market. The all-glass instrument panel, far removed from a traditional central screen, presents an immersive cockpit experience. Here, driving information, navigation, audio, and car data cycle through numerous viewing slots on either side of the tachometer.
The latter even transforms into a digital recreation of the traditional analog gauge that has defined the view for Ferrari drivers for decades. There’s a full-screen mode dedicated to navigation and a racing mode, each tailored to cater to varying driving needs or preferences. However, the Ferrari essence comes through with the classic center-mounted tachometer. Come aboard the Ferrari 296 GTS and indulge in a luxury ride that lays a red carpet for your comfort and entertainment with its stunning interior design.
2. Ferrari 296 GTS Performance
Engine
At the heart of the 296 GTS lies a 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine paired with an electric motor, nestled in the rear mid-engine layout. This setup is part of Ferrari’s transition towards more sustainable yet powerful drivetrains. The engine itself is a marvel of engineering, optimized to deliver power smoothly and rapidly.
Horsepower
The combined output from the hybrid system reaches a staggering 819 horsepower, allowing the 296 GTS to deliver performance figures that rival traditional V8 and some V12 engines. This immense power ensures that the GTS stands alongside the fastest supercars in the world.
Acceleration
The 296 GTS accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just under 3 seconds, a testament to its advanced powertrain and lightweight construction. Such acceleration is not just quick; it’s instant, providing a thrilling rush that is addictive.
Top Speed
With a top speed of over 205 mph, the 296 GTS is not only quick but also incredibly fast, capable of sustaining high speeds with ease, thanks in part to its meticulously tuned aerodynamics and powerful engine.
3. Ferrari 296 GTS Price
The Ferrari 296 GTS has a starting price of $371,139 in the US. This might seem steep, but it’s important to note that this model doesn’t have different trims which usually vary the starting price. The price you see is more or less what you get for the base model.
However, Ferrari offers extensive customization options. You can choose any color you want for the exterior, select high-end leather for the seats, and even opt for lighter materials to enhance the car’s speed. Adding these custom features can significantly increase the cost, sometimes by tens of thousands of dollars. Therefore, the final price of your Ferrari 296 GTS will depend largely on how personalized you want your car to be.
4. Ferrari 296 GTS Technical Specifications
- Engine Type: 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo hybrid
- Total Power Output: 819 horsepower
- Combustion Engine: 654 horsepower
- Electric Motor: 165 horsepower
- Torque: 546 lb-ft
- Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
- Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive
- Acceleration: 0-60 mph in approximately 2.9 seconds
- Top Speed: Over 205 mph
- Length: 179.7 inches (4,565 mm)
- Width: 77.1 inches (1,958 mm)
- Height: 46.7 inches (1,187 mm)
- Dry Weight: 3,241 lbs (1,470 kg)
- Chassis Construction: Utilizes advanced materials such as aluminum and carbon fiber to reduce weight while increasing rigidity.
- Suspension System: Features adaptive dampers that adjust to road conditions and driving style for optimal handling and comfort.
- Wheel Size: 20 inches
- Brakes: Carbon-ceramic brakes for exceptional stopping power, especially important in high-performance situations.
- Aerodynamic Features: Includes an active rear spoiler and underbody vortex generators to optimize airflow and downforce, enhancing stability at high speeds.
5. Driving Experience with Ferrari 296 GTS
Here’s a taste of what the driving experience with the Ferrari 296 GTS might be like:
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Thrilling Performance: The 296 GTS boasts a hybrid powertrain, combining a powerful 3.0-liter V6 engine with an electric motor. This translates to neck-snapping acceleration and a combined output of 830 horsepower. Put your foot down, and you’ll experience a surge of power that pushes you back in your seat, all while the throaty roar of the V6 engine fills the air.
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Open-Air Delight: With the top down, you’ll be completely immersed in the driving experience. Feel the wind whipping through your hair and the sun on your face as you carve through corners. The engine’s glorious sound becomes even more intoxicating, amplified by the open cabin.
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Surprisingly Manageable: Don’t be fooled by the supercar badge. The 296 GTS is surprisingly manageable, thanks to its well-balanced handling and responsive steering. The advanced driver assistance systems also provide a safety net, giving you the confidence to push the car to its limits on a track.
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Multiple Driving Modes: Choose from various driving modes to tailor the car’s performance to your needs. In electric mode, enjoy a silent and emissions-free cruise for short distances. Switch to sport mode for a more engaging and responsive driving experience, and for the ultimate thrill, unleash the full power of the hybrid engine in Race mode.
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Luxury Touches: While the focus is on performance, the cabin doesn’t compromise on luxury. High-quality materials surround you, with comfortable yet supportive seats that hug you during sharp turns. The driver-centric cockpit puts all the essential controls within easy reach, allowing you to stay focused on the road.
Overall, driving the Ferrari 296 GTS is an unforgettable experience. It’s a powerful machine that delivers exhilarating performance, all while offering the joy of open-air driving.
6. Innovations in Ferrari 296 GTS
The Ferrari 296 GTS represents not just a new chapter, but a whole new volume in the story of high-performance cars. Let’s see the radical and innovative solutions that set the 296 GTS apart from other mid-engined spider sports cars.
Cutting Edge Technology
The Ferrari 296 GTS’s cutting-edge technological panorama is distinctive, starting with the novel placement of the turbo above the vee of the crankcase in a hot-V configuration. This autonomy enables more effective heat management within the engine bay and electrical components, a departure from conventional design.
Another highlight is the all-glass instrument panel, signaling a shift from the central screen seen in mainstream automobiles. This panel allows the driver to efficiently navigate through audio, navigation and car data, a beneficial layout that encourages focused driving. Notably, the panel can offer a digital portrayal of the classic analog gauge that Ferrari owners have adored over the decades, a touch carrying a nostalgic essence.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Safety is paramount in the 296 GTS, which incorporates an active device primarily for generating extra downforce rather than managing drag. This bespoke configuration elucidates Ferrari’s policy of reinventing prevailing norms to step up safety.
Additionally, performance-oriented elements in the car assist in optimum vehicular control. The tonneau cover design of the 296 GTS, for instance, mimics the aerodynamic behavior of a coupe. This ingenuity means the active spoiler of the 296 GTS can supply an equal amount of downforce as the 296 GTB, amping up the car’s stability and enhancing safety.
Lastly, the high-speed 296 GTS, capable of reaching up to 205mph, retains zero downforce loss when the roof is lowered, further improving the car’s safety features.
Ferrari 296 GTS: Infotainment and Connectivity
The Ferrari 296 GTS, the convertible sibling of the 296 GTB, boasts a similar infotainment and connectivity setup designed to complement the driving experience without overshadowing it:
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Digital Driver’s Display: A large, curved 16-inch digital display acts as your main instrument cluster, providing vital car information like speed, RPM, and navigation in a customizable format.
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Passenger Display: Unlike many cars, the 296 GTS offers a separate digital display for the passenger. This can be used to display infotainment features, climate controls, or even performance data, making them feel more involved in the ride.
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High-Quality Audio System: A standard 6-speaker audio system is included, but with the top down, the wind and the glorious roar of the engine might be your preferred soundtrack.
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Apple CarPlay Integration: Access your iPhone’s features like maps, music, and messages directly through the car’s touchscreen interface. Unfortunately, Android Auto is not supported at this time.
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Bluetooth Connectivity: Wirelessly connect your phone for hands-free calling and music streaming when you want a break from the symphony of the engine.
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Navigation System: A built-in navigation system with voice activation helps you stay on track during your journeys.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the top speed of the Ferrari 296 GTS?
The Ferrari 296 GTS is capable of going from 0 to 100 kmph in a mere 2.9 seconds, attaining a top speed of around 330 kmph, making for an exhilarating driving experience.
What restrictions does Ferrari impose on owners?
Ferrari, dedicated to preserving their vehicles’ integrity and performance, limits owners from making modifications to their new cars for a certain duration. Such modifications can potentially void the car’s warranty.
What is the cost of the Ferrari 296 GTS in Italy?
While specifics about the 296 GTS are yet to be announced, the base price for the 296 GTB in Italy is reported to be around 269,000 euros, which is equivalent to approximately $290,200. The 296 GTS has an electric-only range of 25 kilometers (15 miles).
Hi! I’m Larry Gibbs, studying mechanical engineering with a focus on cars. I really love Ferraris and write blog posts about the latest car stuff. When not studying or blogging, I’m usually on a road trip exploring new places. I also enjoy playing football and watching movies. Life’s an adventure, and I’m all about enjoying the ride!
