Will the Ferrari 296 Speciale ever see any owners here in Malaysia?
Ferrari has lifted the veil on its latest special series model, the Ferrari 296 Speciale, a mid-rear-engine plug-in hybrid berlinetta that joins a legendary lineage of performance icons like the 430 Scuderia, 458 Speciale, and 488 Pista. Engineered for ultimate driving engagement and track-capable thrills, the 296 Speciale marks a new pinnacle in Ferrari’s hybrid evolution.
At its core, the 296 Speciale features a plug-in hybrid system that combines a high-revving 3.0L twin-turbocharged 120° V6 engine with an electric motor, delivering an astonishing 880 hp—50 hp more than the standard 296 GTB. The V6 alone produces 700 cv, aided by F1-inspired titanium rods, reinforced pistons and a lightweight crankshaft.
Moreover, an “extra boost” mode from the uprated electric motor contributes 180 cv, enabling lightning-quick gear shifts via Ferrari’s eight-speed DCT and propelling the car to 100 km/h from standstill in under 2.9 seconds. Aerodynamics receive a motorsport-grade upgrade as well just for good measure.
At 250 km/h, the car generates 435 kg of downforce, a whopping 20 percent more than the 296 GTB. Innovations include an integrated aero damper, vertical rear fins, and a newly developed active rear spoiler that now offers Low, Medium and High Downforce modes, optimising grip and cornering stability.
Weight reduction was also a big focus with this car. Through the use of carbon fibre body panels, titanium engine components, and stripped-down cabin features, Ferrari cut 60 kg from the 296 GTB’s weight. This brings the weight-to-power ratio down to 1.6 kg/cv, a record for any rear-wheel-drive Ferrari.
On top of that, the cabin is race-focused, minimalist, and tech-forward. A carbon-fibre monocoque-style door panel, extensive use of Alcantara, and an integrated digital interface ensure both immersion and clarity. Lightweight elements continue throughout, eliminating excess while enhancing driver focus.
Handling in the Ferrari 296 Speciale has also been fine-tuned. New suspension geometry, a 5mm lower ride height and a dedicated Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tyre maximise cornering stability and responsiveness. The updated ABS Evo system and chassis dynamics ensure confident braking and control in all conditions.
Exterior styling cues pay homage to Ferrari’s racing DNA. The front end, dominated by sculpted intakes and a wing-like splitter, hints at the 296 Speciale’s motorsport origins, while the rear accentuates aggressive aerodynamics and performance intent. Lastly, the 7-year Genuine Maintenance Programme offers peace of mind, covering all scheduled servicing globally, ensuring the 296 Speciale delivers top-tier performance throughout its life.
So will the Ferrari 296 Speciale find any new owners here in Malaysia or will the brand’s notoriously hard screening process make this impossible?
