Ferrari 296 Speciale – Now With 867 HP!

Ferrari does not throw the word “Speciale” around lightly, and now the 296 joins that elite club with two new versions—the 296 Speciale and the 296 Speciale A. Both cars are built to elevate the already wild performance of the standard 296 GTB and GTS, and it shows in every detail, from the engine upgrades to the aerodynamic tweaks.

Let us start with what is under the hood. The plug-in hybrid powertrain now delivers 867 horsepower, a significant bump over the 818 horsepower in the regular version. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine on its own makes 690 horsepower, which is the same figure as the track-focused 296 Challenge. Ferrari did not stop there—it added titanium connecting rods, upgraded pistons, a lighter crankshaft, and even a Formula One-style knock control system. All of that engineering wizardry is meant to make the car scream on the track but stay reliable.

An upgraded electric motor adds another 177 horsepower to the mix, and everything gets sent to the rear wheels through Ferrari’s eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The gearbox itself is unchanged, but the shift points have been reprogrammed to make better use of the extra power. Since it is a plug-in hybrid, it can drive silently on electricity alone for about 15 miles, but let’s be honest—why would anyone want to drive a Ferrari without hearing that V6 roar?

Both the coupe and convertible versions offer the same output, but each has gone on a weight-loss program. The fixed-roof Speciale sheds 132 pounds, while the drop-top version cuts 110 pounds. Most of that comes from carbon fiber, used throughout the interior and exterior. Inside, you will notice minimalistic door panels, a bare carbon fiber center console, and even more weight-saving materials in the cabin. It is all about performance and nothing else.

Visually, the cars have been sharpened with new front and rear bumpers, and the rear gets a massive diffuser and a deployable wing that activates based on speed or drive mode. Ferrari says these additions give the car 20 percent more downforce than the standard 296 models. For the convertible, there is even a clever headrest flap that helps reduce turbulence while improving airflow toward the rear deck.

Suspension has also been reworked, with titanium springs that are stiffer and lighter. The car rides lower and comes equipped with Multimatic adjustable dampers borrowed from the GT3 race car. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tires made specifically for the Speciale help deliver all that performance to the pavement, and a new five-spoke wheel design completes the look.

Although Ferrari has not officially announced pricing, early estimates suggest the 296 Speciale will start at around $464,000.