The new 868bhp Ferrari 296 Speciale is here

New model also joined by the convertible 296 Speciale A

Ferrari has gone lighter and more powerful with its new model, the 296 Speciale, which the brand says “sets the new benchmark in terms of driving thrills and engagement”. The 296 Speciale is launched in coupe and convertible (Speciale A) variants.

But before we get to all of the important bits like design, engine, price and so on, can we talk about Ferrari’s new colour that adorns the 296 Speciale? Called Verde Nürburgring, the vivid green colour has been developed specifically for the 296 Speciale and in the words of Ferrari, “emphasises the sporting spirit of the car.”

The Ferrari/Nürburgring association is a tough one to get to grips with at first. The brand is so synonymous with all things Italy that the idea of any nod to the famous German circuit is jarring, to say the least. Nevertheless, Ferrari has thrown a new idea out there, which is always good to see, and along with the new colour, a new livery is also being offered for the first time, which consists of one or two stripes running over the length of the car. Also available in white, customers are also able to select a number of their choice on the bonnet and side of their 296 Speciale from 00 to 99. I suppose you could bet everything you own on Lewis Hamilton getting a number 44 variant prepared as we speak.

Powertrain

So let’s get down to that headline making 868bhp number, which makes the 296 Speciale the most powerful rear wheel drive production Ferrari of all time, displacing the Daytona SP3. This power is thanks to its 3-litre twin-turbo V6 (690bhp) and electric motor (178bhp), giving the 296 Speciale 49bhp more than the 296 GTB, while also being 60kg lighter at 1,410kg and with a 20% increase in downforce.

Power is channelled via the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, helping achieve 0-62mph in just 2.8 seconds and a top speed of 208mph. And just in case you thought Ferrari had upped sticks and moved to the Nürburgring, it proudly boasts a lap time around Fiorano of 1 minute 19 seconds, which is 2 seconds quicker than the GTB managed.

Design & Aerodynamics

As previously mentioned, there have been big savings in weight, with Ferrari making savings by using plenty of carbon fibre on the bodyshell parts and titanium for components in the engine. This has resulted in a dry weight of 1,410kg in the Speciale and 1460kg on the Speciale A on account of the folding roof.

In terms of design, the 296 Speciale takes the styling elements of the GTB and chucks in motorsport-derived elements. At the rear, new side wings inspired by the FXX K help improve downforce and work alongside a new diffuser and retractable rear spoiler, while at the front, you’ll find the aero damper integrated into the bonnet.

Airflow has been doubled compared to the GTB, reaching the radiators and optimising brake cooling ducts. The car also rides 5mm lower than the GTB, as spring and damper settings have been revised. This reduces maximum roll angle when cornering by 13% and improving the behaviour of the car at the limit.

Interior

While the inside of the 296 Speciale continues the theme seen in the majority of the more recent Ferraris, even more weight saving has gone on here with extensive use of carbon fibre and Alcantara.

The race focused cabin is minimalist in its design and is emphasised by a specific door panel created for the 296 Speciale consisting of a single block of carbon fibre. And for those of you irritated by Ferrari’s disappearing, touch sensitive controls on previous wheels, it looks like buttons are back on the agenda.

Price

The Ferrari 296 Speciale starts from £350,000 with deliveries set to reach customers in early 2026. Although it won’t be limited in numbers, those looking to secure an allocation are expected to be active Ferrari buyers during the last five years, while Speciale A customers will have to prove their keenness even further.

Before you go…

If you’re keen on Ferrari content, why not follow John Marcar’s journey for Driven Racing in this year’s Ferrari Challenge UK. Having just recently completed his first race weekend in Navarra, he’ll continue behind the wheel of a 296 Challenge with five more races scheduled over the following months.

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Ferrari