Ferrari 296 Speciale Unveiled: Is It Enough to Outshine Lamborghini’s Temerario?
Ferrari has just unleashed the 296 Speciale, a more potent version of the already impressive 296 GTB. Boasting increased power, reduced weight, and enhanced downforce, the Speciale aims to deliver an even more thrilling driving experience. But with the Lamborghini Temerario arriving on the scene, the question is: will the Ferrari 296 Speciale be special enough to steal the spotlight?
The Ferrari 296 Speciale emerges as a sharpened iteration of the celebrated 296 GTB, a hybrid supercar recognized as one of the Performance Car of the Year winners in 2024. The Speciale edition amplifies its predecessor's strengths, emphasizing a lighter build, heightened power, and augmented downforce. This new variant seeks to elevate the driving experience, presenting a more aggressive and track-focused demeanor.
Both the Ferrari 296 Speciale and Lamborghini Temerario are high-tech plug-in hybrids positioned in a similar price range. On paper, the Speciale seems to be slightly outmatched. The Lamborghini boasts more power, all-wheel drive, and a roaring 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. The Ferrari 296 Speciale features a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, delivering peak power at 8000 rpm and sending drive exclusively to the rear wheels.
However, the Ferrari 296 Speciale has a significant advantage: weight. Ferrari claims a dry weight of 3110 pounds, significantly lighter than the Temerario. The Ferrari's powertrain also delivers impressive numbers, matching the Lambo's V8 on peak power at 789 hp and surpassing it on torque with 557 lb-ft. The car will also feature new aluminium pistons and titanium conrods from the F80 hypercar help boost the turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 from 654 hp to 690 hp, matching the muscle of the track-only 296 Challenge racer.
Ferrari claims the Speciale accelerates from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 2.8 seconds and 0-124 mph (0-200 km/h) in 7.0 seconds. The V6 engine makes 36 hp more than the regular 296 GTB, incorporating upgraded pistons and titanium conrods intended for the F80 hypercar. Weight reduction has also been achieved through additional milling of the block and the use of titanium bolts. The electric motor contributes an additional 13 hp, reaching a peak of 177 hp.
The 296 Speciale underwent subtle yet functional design changes to enhance downforce. A new bumper at the front incorporates numerous channels and air-flowing elements, the wheel well fender vents signal its high-performance capabilities. The special edition generates nearly 20 percent more downforce than the 296 GTB, totaling 960 pounds at 155 mph. The pop-up dam-type spoiler and side wings further refine airflow and reduce drag.
Electronic control systems have also been refined, allowing the car to react more quickly to changing conditions. By analyzing data from the electric power steering and G-sensor system, the Speciale can accurately assess grip levels in real-time.
Equipped with optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tires, the Ferrari 296 Speciale achieved a lap time of 1 minute 19 seconds at Ferrari's Fiorano test track. The new aluminium pistons and titanium conrods from the F80 hypercar help boost the turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 from 654 hp to 690 hp, matching the muscle of the track-only 296 Challenge racer.
Ferrari will launch both the Speciale coupe and the open-topped Aperta version simultaneously. However, only active clients with a history of purchasing Ferrari vehicles will be eligible to buy the Speciale.
Will the Ferrari 296 Speciale be special enough to win over enthusiasts? Its lighter weight and refined powertrain offer a compelling alternative to the more powerful, all-wheel-drive Lamborghini Temerario. The ultimate decision rests with the driver. Which would you rather have?
What are your thoughts on the new Ferrari 296 Speciale? Share your opinion in the comments below!
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