Ferrari 296 GTB Arrives As 818-HP Hybrid Dino Successor

After the spectacular LaFerrari, theSF90 Stradale, and theSF90 Spider, Ferrari has revealed another electrified sports car. The biggest difference? This one doesn't have a large-capacity V8 or a V12 but instead uses a 120-degree, turbocharged 2.9-liter V6, the first Ferrari to ever be equipped with such an engine. This is the new Ferrari 296 GTB and it's the Italian brand's answer to theMcLaren Artura. The '29' in the name stands for the engine displacement of 2992cc and the '6' refers to the cylinder count. With electric assistance, the new powertrain produces a startling 830 cv (818 horsepower) and 546 lb-ft of torque. Notably, Ferrari says that the new 296 GTB plug-in hybrid is not directly replacing any other Ferrari but creates a new segment for the brand alongside the F8 Tributo.

On its own, the V6 produces 653 hp, while the electric motor - sandwiched between the engine and gearbox - adds 164 and 232 lb-ft. Unlike the SF90, this remains strictly rear-wheel drive, with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox handling shiftwork. It can rev all the way to 8,500 rpm and while that may not match the 812 Competizione V12's ability to goanother 1,000 rpm beyond that, the new 2.9-liter V6 remains impressive. In terms of performance, the 296 GTB will reach 62 mph in 2.9 seconds, 124 mph in 7.3, and a top speed exceeding 330 km/h (205 mph). A top speed of 84 mph is achievable on electric power alone, and if you really want to, you can cover 15.5 miles on electric power alone. The specific 221 hp/l output is claimed by Ferrari to be a record for a production car.

Of course, power is nothing without extraordinary agility and the 296 GTB doesn't disappoint in this area either. The wheelbase is nearly two inches shorter than previous mid-rear engine Ferrari berlinettas and this improves agility and dynamic poise. A new ABS control module integrated with a 6w-CDS sensor allows the driver to push the grip limits of the rear tires. Ferrari says that this enhances cornering and allows for repeatedly strong stopping distances. Ferrari has managed to keep the dry weight down to just 3,241 pounds. Naturally, this wouldn't be a Ferrari if we didn't mention jaw-dropping looks, both inside and out, and the 296 GTB does not disappoint in this regard.