Ferrari 296 Speciale Debuts in Middle East with Elevated Thrills
Ferrari has officially launched the highly anticipated 296 Speciale in the Middle East, unveiling it during an exclusive event in Dubai shortly after its global debut in Maranello. The event, crafted with Ferrari’s signature elegance, offered an immersive introduction to the brand’s newest mid-rear-engined special series Berlinetta—engineered for unmatched driving emotion and precision.
Building on the heritage of Ferrari’s most iconic special series—Challenge Stradale, 430 Scuderia, 458 Speciale, and 488 Pista—the 296 Speciale is designed to set a new benchmark in driving engagement. It combines cutting-edge motorsport-derived technologies with unmistakable Ferrari DNA to deliver extraordinary performance tailored to the expectations of the modern Ferrarista.
An Evolution of Performance and Precision
The 296 Speciale pushes the envelope on agility, turn-in sharpness, and dynamic balance. Enhancing the already stellar capabilities of the 296 GTB, this special version adds a heightened sense of predictability and intuitiveness—giving drivers a visceral connection with the road. As a result, the 296 Speciale is poised to be the most exhilarating Berlinetta in Ferrari’s current production range.
Powered by a plug-in hybrid drivetrain, the vehicle combines a 120° V6 twin-turbo rear-mid engine with an electric motor and short wheelbase for greater responsiveness. The powertrain delivers a staggering 880 hp—50 more than the 296 GTB—making it the most powerful rear-wheel-drive production Ferrari to date.
Giorgio Turri, General Manager of Ferrari Middle East, commented:
“The launch of the Ferrari 296 Speciale marks a special occasion for the brand in the Middle East. True to its name, this model is nothing short of extraordinary, blending cutting-edge innovation with Ferrari’s unmistakable DNA. With its supreme agility, heightened responsiveness, and unmatched driving engagement, the 296 Speciale sets a new benchmark for performance and emotion. We can’t wait to see this remarkable model on the roads of the region.”
Race-Bred Engineering Meets Everyday Thrills
Ferrari’s engineering team drew heavily from motorsport expertise to elevate the Speciale’s performance. The internal combustion engine incorporates titanium connecting rods, reinforced pistons, and a lightened crankshaft—similar to components used in the 296 Challenge. A Formula 1-derived knock control system enables the V6 engine to produce 700 cv, a 37 cv increase over the base 296 GTB.
The electric motor has also been enhanced, offering 180 cv with the new “extra boost” mode. This update allowed engineers to refine the eight-speed DCT transmission, introducing a new torque management strategy that reduces shift times and boosts responsiveness for more engaging performance.
Acoustic design has not been overlooked. The V6 retains its unique sound signature, with amplified harmonics in the 3rd, 6th, and 9th combustion orders—delivering a more resonant and intense engine note.
Downforce, Weight Reduction, and Intelligent Aerodynamics
The 296 Speciale achieves 435 kg of downforce at 250 km/h—a 20% increase over the GTB—thanks to aerodynamic advances inspired by the 296 Challenge. These include an aero damper integrated into the front bonnet, vertical fins on the rear bumper, and newly designed side wings. These elements work in concert with an active rear spoiler now featuring a new actuator system that reduces transition times by 50% between aerodynamic modes. A newly introduced “Medium Downforce” configuration further enhances stability at high speeds.
Weight reduction also plays a central role in delivering thrilling dynamics. The 296 Speciale is 50 kg lighter than the GTB, thanks to carbon fibre body panels and titanium engine components. This results in a record-setting weight-to-power ratio of 1.69 kg/cv for a rear-wheel-drive Ferrari.
Precision Handling Backed by Advanced Controls
To fine-tune on-limit behaviour, Ferrari engineers revised the suspension and control systems. The 296 Speciale features the latest generation of the ABS Evo system, offering improved braking accuracy under diverse conditions. Its revised spring and damper setup lowers the ride height by 5 mm compared to the 296 GTB and reduces maximum roll angle by 13%, ensuring sharper handling and increased driver confidence at the limit.
Dedicated to enthusiasts seeking the purest form of driving emotion, the Ferrari 296 Speciale stands as the ultimate expression of performance engineering—balancing raw power with innovation, elegance, and absolute control. Its arrival in the Middle East solidifies the region’s status as a key hub for Ferrari’s most advanced creations.
