New Ferrari 296 Speciale is Maranello’s Most Powerful RWD Car Ever
Ferrari has just unveiled a special and more extreme version of its rear-wheel-drive, hybrid-powered coupe.
The 296 Speciale increases the twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6’s boost pressure, pushing the engine from 654 hp to 691 hp and from 546 lb-ft of torque to 557 lb-ft. Reinforced pistons and titanium connecting rods from the new F80 flagship were necessary in the process. The crankshaft is lighter, too.
- Also: 6 New Ferraris to Debut in 2025, Order Books Full Through 2026
- Also: All-New Ferrari F80 Takes Torch From LaFerrari, Packs 1,184 Horsepower
Meanwhile, the electric motor gets a boost from 164 hp to 178 hp thanks to improved cooling (torque remains at 232 lb-ft). All in all, the system's combined output is no longer 819 hp as in the 296 GTB, but rather 868 hp, making the new 296 Speciale the most powerful rear-wheel-drive Ferrari in history. Yes, even ahead of the V12-powered 12Cilindri.
Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is thus a tenth of a second quicker at 2.8 seconds, while top speed stays put at 330 km/h. Ferrari says the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission’s shift times are about a third shorter and total weight is down by 132 lbs (60 kg) compared with the lightest 296 GTB. That’s incredible.
As you can also see, aerodynamics have been revised, especially to increase downforce. The new vent in the hood, at the base of the windshield, is derived from the 296 Challenge race car. Small air intakes near the headlights cool the front brakes, while the radiator openings are 12-percent larger.
The underbody and rear diffuser of the 296 Speciale have been redesigned to improve airflow. Higher up, you’ll find what Ferrari calls new “Gamma” wings in the corners. The main spoiler deploys actively in half a second and up to 2.75 inches (7 cm) when required. Overall, downforce is increased by 20 percent over the 296 GTB and now amounts to 959 lbs (435 kg) at a speed of 250 km/h, according to the automaker.
Other changes include an improved ABS, 5mm lower ride height, a camber angle increased by 0.2 degrees, 15 percent stiffer springs and larger stabilizer bars, not to mention expanded use of carbon fibre. The wheels have the same 20-inch size but are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.
Ferrari expects to deliver the first units of its 296 Speciale in North America during the first quarter of 2026. A 296 Speciale A convertible will follow. By the way, production is already sold out.
