Ferrari released the first photos and information of the new 296 Challenge racecar, which is set to make its public debut on October 23. The ninth model in the Ferrari Challenge series is based on the 296 GTB, adding extensive visual modifications while ditching the hybrid assistance from its upgraded twin-turbo V6.
Naturally, the 296 Challenge has a more aggressive stance than the road-going 296 GTB but doesn’t look as crazy as the 296 GT3 despite being wrapped in a beautiful red and white livery.
At the front, there is a prominent splitter mounted on the new bumper with larger intakes. The hood is vented while the fenders look wider. The profile is dominated by a set of new deeper side skirts, Lexan windows, and 19-inch center-lock wheels shod in Pirelli tires specifically developed for the series. As for the redesigned tail, it features a massive wing, aerodynamic extensions on the sides, an F1-style brake light, and a black mesh housing the dual round tailpipes.
More: Ferrari 296 GTB Runs 0-60 In 2.4 Seconds Making It One Of The World’s Quickest RWD Cars
All those changes allow the 296 Challenge to produce more than 870 kg (1,918 lbs) of downforce at 250 km/h (155 mph), keeping it glued on the track. According to Ferrari, the downforce figures are “unprecedented” in the history of the single-make series.
Ferrari engineers tweaked the powertrain of the 296 GTB, throwing in the dumpster the electric motors and hybrid battery, focusing instead on the twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6. While the racecar can’t match the road model’s combined output of 830 hp (619 kW / 842 PS), it still makes 690 hp (515 kW / 700 PS) from the combustion engine alone, representing an increase of 36 hp (27 kW / 37 PS) compared to stock. This means that the 296 Challenge is more powerful than the also-non-electrified 296 GT3 racecar due to the lack of regulations in Ferrari’s single-make series. Finally, the model comes equipped with a new set of CCM-R Plus brake discs, and the ABS EVO Track system specially adapted for the track.
The racecar will make its official debut on the eve of the Finali Mondiali set to be held at the Mugello Circuit between October 24 and 30. The Ferrari 296 Challenge will compete in the 2024 season of the European and North American series, replacing the 488 Challenge Evo.
