The New Ferrari 296 GTB Has 819bhp Of V6 Hybrid Brawn

Ferrari’s first V6 in decades looks very similar to the McLaren Artura on paper, but it’s packing way more heat
The New Ferrari 296 GTB Has 819bhp Of V6 Hybrid Brawn

The new age of hybrid supercars is gaining momentum. A few months back we had the reveal of the McLaren Artura, and now there’s this: the Ferrari 296 GTB. Like the McLaren, it uses a 120-degree V6 with the turbochargers sit between the cylinder banks to form a ‘hot vee’.

There is one big difference between the Ferrari and the McLaren, however - power. While the Brit’s total system power is 671bhp, the Italian develops almost that figure from the engine alone. This clean-sheet 2.9-litre unit makes 654bhp, meaning it has the highest specific output of and production powerplant.

There's a clear styling link between this and the SF90
There's a clear styling link between this and the SF90

Factoring in the electrical gubbins, and you’re looking at a whopping 819bhp. 0-62mph happens in a mere 2.9 seconds, and the top speed is 205mph. That enormous power figure isn’t the only thing that helps the 296 get off the line so quickly - for a hybrid, it’s incredibly light, tipping the scales at 1475kg. Compare that to the Honda NSX, which is a porky 1800kg.

The Honda only has a tiny battery, but the 296? That gets a 7.4kWh pack, giving an electric-only range of up to 15 miles. This power a single electric motor sitting between the gearbox and the engine. So, unlike the SF90 with its front axle motor, the 296 is exclusively rear-wheel drive.

The New Ferrari 296 GTB Has 819bhp Of V6 Hybrid Brawn

This hybrid setup sits on a new platform with a 50mm shorter wheelbase than the 458/488/F8 Tributo, something the shorter engine makes possible. The 120-degree bank angle of that unit is a relatively obscure one, but it’s ideal in a mid-engined vehicle like this where the width isn’t a problem. Benefits include a lower centre of gravity and easier packaging for the hot-vee turbochargers.

Read more about the benefits of a 120-degree V6

In terms of dynamics, there are standard-fit adaptive dampers, a six-way chassis sensor for the traction control system, and the latest version of Ferrari’s Side Slip Control allowing even the most hamfisted to get their drift on. If specced with the Assetto Fiorano package, which comes with various carbon fibre bits and race-derived dampers, it’s possible to option super-sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tyres.

The New Ferrari 296 GTB Has 819bhp Of V6 Hybrid Brawn

This being a modern Ferrari, a large emphasis is placed on the aero side of the equation. There are various ducts and channels hidden from sight, plus some more obvious stuff like an active rear spoiler and a big rear diffuser. With the Assetto Fiorano package fitted, the 296 is good for 360kg of downforce at 155mph.

No prices have been revealed just yet, but we can expect a slight rise on the £203,476 figure charged for the F8 Tributo.

Comments

Freddie Skeates

What a thing. Love the 250LM-inspired looks, and if the sound it makes in the livestream reveal is to be believed, I don’t see why you would want a SF90 or a F8 over this?

06/24/2021 - 13:03 |
2 | 0
Latooman

Where ist the Emotion?? It looks like a car from GTA-V…

06/24/2021 - 13:53 |
0 | 0
Anonymous

Really like the bulky rear arches

06/24/2021 - 14:49 |
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adis112

This wont replace the F8 or will it? F8 is in production for like 2 years no?

06/24/2021 - 18:08 |
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Matt Robinson
Matt Robinson

In reply to by adis112

It has only been around about two years, but remember it’s effectively a heavy facelift of the 488, which itself is an updated 458. So it’s an old thing arguably overdue a replacement. I wonder if there might be some overlap though (as with McLaren 12C/650S )

06/24/2021 - 18:13 |
2 | 0
Mark Stanton

It gives me strong Dino 246GT vibes from its looks, as well as the V6. If the Dino name was ever to come back, this should be the car it’s put on

06/25/2021 - 10:21 |
0 | 0

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