Ferrari peels back the lid on its jaw-dropping V6 hybrid supercar ... enter the 296 GTS
In 2021, Ferrari wowed the international motoring world with the launch of its mid-rear-engined two-seater Gran Turismo Berlinetta (GTB), the fi rm’s first rear-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, or PHEV. For those keen to feel the sun and wind on their faces and experience an al fresco from the La Scala of the tarmac, Ferrari has just launched the 296 Gran Turismo Spider or GTS.
Maranello hoof – minus the roof
Featuring a retractable hardtop that takes 14 seconds to operate at speeds of up to 45 km/h, the GTS’ V6 shares its powertrain architecture with the GTB; namely, the 3,0-litre V6 turbo-petrol hybrid unit that the Maranello fi rm has christened “piccolo V12” – little V12. Even though the GTS has to accommodate some structural bracing, it still only weighs 1 540 kg – a mere 70 kg heavier than the GTB – provided it is fitted to the optional extra performance Assetto Fiorano package that uses carbon fibre to keep its weight down.
To further enhance driving dynamics and safety, the GTS uses a brake-cooling system developed around its Aero callipers with ventilation ducts integrated into their castings; they first appeared on the SF90 Stradale. The 296 GTS’ intake was cleverly integrated into the headlamp design. Look closely and you’ll see the aperture connecting the wing to the wheel arch mirrored in the daylight running light. In addition to this, an active rear spoiler generates extra downforce, maximising handling and braking at high speed.
SPARRING SPIDERS
HOW FERRARI’S LATEST DROP-TOP MATCHES UP TO ITS RIVAL FROM MCLAREN
- FERRARI 296 GTS / MCLAREN 765LT SPIDER
- PRICE TBC R6 million
- ENGINE 3,0-litre twin-turbo V6 plug-in hybrid / 4,0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol
- POWER OUTPUT 610 kW / 536 kW
- TORQUE 740 N.m / 800 N.m
- 0-100 KM/H 2,9 seconds / 2,8 seconds
- TOP SPEED 330 km/h / 330 km/h