The Ferrari 296 GTB represents a significant departure from the mid-engined V8, V10, and V12 supercars we have become accustomed to over the decades and Top Gear recently had the chance to check it out in person.
Ferrari has built the 296 GTB to slot between the F8 Tributo and the SF90 Stradale in its line-up, and while an argument could certainly be made that there wasn’t really much of a need for such a car, we’re very happy that it exists.
The design has been clearly influenced by the SF90 Stradale. It also takes inspiration from the iconic 250 LM with its vertical rear window, large side air intakes, and prpnounced rear wheel arches.
Watch Also: This Is What Ferrari’s New 296 GTB Twin-Turbo V6 Sounds Like
Powering the car is a 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged 120-degree V6 that produces 654 hp, the highest specific output of any current production engine. It is supplemented by a 164 hp electric motor sandwiched between the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and the engine. All up, the 296 GTB delivers 819 hp and 546 lb-ft (740 Nm) of torque, all of which are sent to the rear wheels.
Ferrari quotes a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 2.9 seconds and a sprint to 124 mph (200 km/h) in just 7.3 seconds. It will continue through to a 205 mph (330 km/h) top speed and can lap Ferrari’s Fiorano test track 1.5 seconds faster than the F8 Tributo and just 1 second slower than the mighty LaFerrari.