Ferrari 296 Speciale and 296 Speciale A: extra hardcore and 880 horsepower

Ferrari 296 Speciale: powertrain and performance

The powertrain of the Ferrari 296 Speciale models consists of a 120-degree twin-turbocharged V6 and an electric motor. Together, these now produce 880 horsepower, fifty more than in the GTB and GTS. This is the highest power output ever for a rear-wheel-drive production Ferrari. The internal combustion engine is derived from the 296 Challenge race car, including titanium connecting rods, a lighter crankshaft and modified camshaft control. The block alone now produces 700 horsepower.

The sound – created from a specific combustion sequence – remains recognizable as the so-called “piccolo V12. The electric motor contributes 180 hp and features a new boost function. Thanks to improved shifting logic of the eight-speed DCT, extra torque is utilized when changing gears, leading to faster transitions and more immediate response.

Aerodynamics and downforce

Improved aerodynamic efficiency includes an integrated air guide on the hood, vertical fins on the rear bumper and an active rear spoiler. The spoiler now works with three configurations: Low Drag, High Downforce and Medium Downforce. At 250 km/h, the cars deliver 435 kg of downforce, 20% more than their base versions.

Undercarriage and dynamics

Ferrari has modified the suspension to refine handling. The cars are 5 mm lower, the cornering roll angle has been reduced by 13%, and the suspension and damping settings have been adjusted. There is also a new version of ABS Evo, which brakes more accurately and consistently.

Weight saving

Both models are lighter than their base versions. The 296 Speciale is 60 kg lighter than the 296 GTB, and the 296 Speciale A is 50 kg lighter than the 296 GTS. This is due in part to the use of carbon fiber and titanium. The weight to power ratio is now 1.60 kg per horsepower (Speciale) and 1.69 kg per horsepower (Speciale A).

Maintenance program Ferrari

Finally, both cars come with a seven-year maintenance program. This covers regular maintenance for the first seven years and also applies to used Ferraris. With this, the brand aims to ensure long-term performance and reliability.