The price of the 2024 Ferrari 296 remains in the realm of exclusivity, starting at $342,205 and ascending to $375,950 depending on trim and options. For those fortunate enough to acquire one, the investment is a testament to their discerning taste and unwavering passion for the automotive arts.
Ferrari, renowned for its iconic sports cars, has ventured into uncharted territory with the introduction of the 296GTB and 296GTS, showcasing a bold departure from the company's traditional powertrain formula. These innovative models combine a mid-mounted turbocharged V-6 engine with an electric motor, creating a potent hybrid powertrain that is both powerful and melodious.
The integration of electrification does not detract from the 296's pedigree as a true sports car. With ample technological assistance, even drivers with varying skill levels can harness the car's phenomenal capabilities. The 296 proves that innovation and tradition can coexist harmoniously, without sacrificing the exhilaration that has always defined the Ferrari experience.
The heart of the 296's performance lies in its innovative powertrain. The turbocharged V6 engine, revving to an intoxicating 8500 RPM, delivers a raw, visceral driving experience. However, it's the seamless integration of the electric motor that truly elevates the car. Together, they create a symphony of power, propelling the 296 from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 2.4 seconds and covering the quarter-mile in a mere 9.7 seconds at 150 mph.
The 296's driving experience is further enhanced through a sophisticated suite of technologies. Four selectable drive modes - eDrive, Hybrid, Performance, and Qualify - allow drivers to tailor the car's performance to their needs and desires. The communicative power steering and brake-by-wire system provide precise control, while the massive brakes offer a stopping distance of just 130 feet from 70 mph.
The 296 embraces a clean, driver-focused interior. Italian leather graces the seats and surfaces, showcasing the coupe's opulent side. The dashboard boasts an entirely digital interface borrowed from the SF90, providing a modern, futuristic look. A push-button shifter, inspired by the gated manuals of old, sits proudly on the center console, adding a touch of nostalgia. Even the ignition key finds a dedicated home in a small compartment on the console.
However, this minimalist approach leads to a major design flaw: the steering wheel. This seemingly innocuous element is crammed with an excessive number of buttons, knobs, and a haptic touchpad, creating an ergonomic nightmare. Countless functions, from audio and navigation to driving modes, are packed into this crowded space, forcing the driver to constantly navigate a labyrinth of controls. This overload detracts from the pleasure of piloting this phenomenal machine.
The lack of a traditional infotainment system, opting instead for an integrated digital gauge cluster, further highlights this frustration. While this approach might appeal to purists, the resulting system is clumsy and cumbersome to use.
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Music by J-K Edholm from Pixabay
PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREG PAJO
PUBLISHED: MAR 7, 2024