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Ferrari 296 GTS: Pure Driving Pleasure

The 296 GTS brings top down enjoyment to the wildly powerful 120° V6 engine coupled with a plug-in (PHEV) electric motor that debuted on the 296 GTB. Containing a total power of 819 hp, the 296 GTS redefines the raw emotion of driving pleasure. The 296 GTS goes from 0-60mph in 2.9 seconds and contains all of Ferrari’s fivefun-to-drive factors: lateral acceleration (handling), longitudinal acceleration (smoothness), shift times, braking, and sound harmonies.

The first three factors: handling, smoothness, and shift times, are obvious with the zero-lag integrated hybrid system that touts the fastest gear changes on the market. The fourth factor, braking, has even been upgraded with the 6-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor (6w-CDS). The fifth and final factor taps into the driver’s psyche. The sound of the top-end rpms have been likened to the screaming roar of a V12 Ferrari, earning the 296 GTS the nickname “piccolo V12” (little V12). Free your inhibitions to the scream of the engine as you retreat to your weekend getaway in the Ohio countryside.

Exterior

Italian design at its finest with clean and simple architecture. Innovations were made to create a 296 GTS that functions seamlessly as both a beautiful berlinetta and functional spider. The team of Flavio Manzoni created an entirely new tonneau cover for the RHT (Retractable Hard Top). The 296 GTS dominant design features, the ‘aero bridge’, that is ultra compact and frames the engine cover screen, novel fuel filler, and battery charge cover. Additionally, the 296 GTB’s chassis was redesigned and optimized for its spider counterpart to improve torsional rigidity.

Innovations

The 8 speed dual clutch gearbox 296 GTS has the fastest gear changes on the market with its zero-lag integrated hybrid system. The mid-engine spider has radical innovations including the turbo installed above the vee of the crankcase. The hot-V configuration allows for maximum cooling of the engine and electrical components. The radiators for the hybrid system have two sleek air vents near the front spoiler. Aerodynamics are paramount in the design of the 296 GTS, including a front “tea-tray” that suctions the car downward and active rear spoiler that also increases downforce an additional 793 pounds.

Interior

It only takes a moment’s notice to activate the retractable hard top to close the cockpit of the 296 GTS to the outside world. The pure, minimalist interior design of the 296 GTS mirrors the elegant, yet powerful exterior aesthetic. The completely digital interface is ergonomically designed to facilitate driver commands. When the engine is off, the onboard instruments go black, enhancing the pure look of the cabin. The unimposing passenger-side display allows the passenger to live the driving experience as a participant, almost a co-driver.