The Ferrari 296 Gran Turismo Berlinetta (GTB) heralds a new era for future Ferrari models as it ushers in the age of the V6 twin turbo hybrid engine. With all the innovations, it is an intensely complex car but is surprisingly easy to drive – both on track and off track.
Test driving the Ferrari 296 GTB on the BIC race track and mildly testing on city roads was an interesting experience. The track drive was intensely exhilarating especially when the pedal hits the metal and you let that beast roar! At high speeds, you feel powerful and in control with the lithe handling, strong brakes, astonishing agility and responsiveness to commands, that truly set this Ferrari ahead of the pack. It’s sexy and visceral with a hidden hybrid superpower that can deliver up to 819 hp.
On city roads, while you may feel you have to be more careful, it handles difficult terrain, especially the dreaded speed bumps, well. In both scenarios, the purr of 296 GTB really ups the experience and is integral to the essence of the car. Ferrari has successfully created a unique and distinct sound for the 296 GTB which is deep, much like a V12. Even on city roads, the engine can be heard inside the cabin. The sound alone has the ability to lift your mood and make your soul sing.
The street drive is so comfortable and fun, that we can really visualise this being an everyday-use car not the trophies that sit in your garage, only to be taken out on track days.
Its sporty, sinuous design and extremely compact dimensions also visually underscore its exceptional modernity, brilliantly referencing the likes of the 1963 250 LM, the perfect marriage of simplicity and functionality.
Elegant minimalism is the word that comes to mind while describing the interiors of the 296 GTB, that is, of course, except for the steering wheel. All the focus is on the dashboard which can be controlled through the steering wheel, giving it a Formula One race car-esque feel. The centre console contains a push-button shifter inspired by the gated manual Ferrari gearboxes of old.
The 296 GTB’s cabin raises the concept of formal purity – when the engine is off, the onboard instruments go black but once the start button is pressed, an exceptionally modern and completely digital interface lights up.
Beyond being a mechanical marvel, one of the most interesting aspects for an owner is customisation. You get to decide on finer details including at least 15 different interior colour combinations, various textures and trims, roof and engine bay finishes, and much more. A delicious dilemma to have!
Finally, we tend to agree with most experts, that the 296 GTB is an ideal segue into the next generation of hybrid Ferraris. It stays stylish while being eco-friendly and is seriously fun to drive.
