The new 296 Speciale is the most powerful rear-wheel drive Ferrari in history
Ferrari has just unveiled a special, more extreme edition of its rear-wheel drive hybrid coupe.
Called the 296 Speciale, the car increases the boost pressure of the 3-liter twin-turbo V6, pushing it from 654 to 691 horsepower and 546 to 557 lb-ft of torque. Reinforced pistons and titanium connecting rods from the fearsome new F80 were required. The crankshaft is lighter too.
Then, thanks to improved cooling, the electric motor increases from 164 to 178 hp (torque remains at 232 lb-ft). All in all, the system's power is no longer 819 hp as in the 296 GTB, but 868 hp, making the new 296 Speciale the most powerful rear-wheel drive Ferrari in history. Yes, even ahead of the V12-powered 12Cilindri!
Acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h is thus reduced from 2.9 to 2.8 seconds, while top speed remains at 330 km/h. Ferrari says it has shortened the gear changes of the eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox by a third, and reduced the car's weight by a major 132 lb (60 kg) compared with the lightest 296 GTB.
As you can also see, the aerodynamics have been reworked, especially to increase downforce. The new opening on the hood, at the base of the windscreen, is derived from the 296 Challenge racing car. Small air intakes near the headlights cool the front brakes, while the radiator openings are 12% larger.
The underside of the 296 Speciale and the diffuser have been redesigned to better control airflow. Higher up, the rear of the car features new “Gamma” fins in the corners. The main spoiler deploys actively in half a second, up to a height of 7 cm when required. Ground clearance totals 959 lb (435 kg) at a speed of 250 km/h, according to Ferrari, some 20% more than on the 296 GTB.
Other changes include improved ABS, a ride height lowered by 5 mm, a camber angle increased by 0.2 degrees, 15% firmer springs and larger stabilizer bars, not to mention the increased use of carbon fiber. The wheels retain their 20-inch diameter, but are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.
Ferrari expects to deliver the first examples of its 296 Speciale in North America in early 2026. A 296 Speciale A convertible will follow. By the way, all examples have already been reserved.
