The Ferrari 296 GTS is where tradition meets transformation—a breathtaking blend of Italian artistry, hybrid innovation, and open-air exhilaration. As the convertible counterpart to the groundbreaking 296 GTB, the GTS (Gran Turismo Spider) gives drivers a chance to experience the full fury of Ferrari’s newest hybrid V6 powertrain with the wind in their hair and the roar of the engine at their backs.
Design: Timeless Elegance with a Modern Edge
At first glance, the Ferrari 296 GTS is unmistakably a Ferrari—flowing lines, sculpted aero elements, and an aggressive yet refined stance. The retractable hardtop (RHT) folds neatly away in just 14 seconds at speeds up to 45 km/h (28 mph), preserving the car’s aesthetics whether the roof is up or down.
The cockpit is minimal yet immersive, designed entirely around the driver. Every control is within reach, and the digital interface complements the analog thrill of driving. High-grade leather, carbon fiber, and customizable options ensure that every 296 GTS feels bespoke.
Powertrain: A New Chapter in Ferrari Performance
At the heart of the Ferrari 296 GTS is a revolutionary 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine—the first of its kind in a Ferrari road car—paired with an electric motor. This plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system delivers a staggering 830 horsepower (818 hp) and 740 Nm of torque, propelling the car from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 2.9 seconds, and on to a top speed over 330 km/h (205 mph).
The all-electric range of around 25 km (15.5 miles) is perfect for silent urban cruising, while the V6 soundtrack, enhanced by the car’s innovative “hot tube” exhaust system, makes full-throttle runs utterly intoxicating.
Handling: A Convertible That Corners Like a Coupe
Ferrari has managed to preserve the razor-sharp dynamics of the coupe version by reinforcing the chassis and integrating their latest vehicle dynamics systems:
- Side Slip Control 6.1 (SSC 6.1)
- Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE)
- eManettino drive mode selector for tailored power delivery
Combined with a rear-wheel-drive layout and a compact wheelbase, the 296 GTS is playful, precise, and incredibly rewarding on both road and track.
A Statement in Innovation
The Ferrari 296 GTS isn’t just another convertible supercar—it’s a statement from Ferrari. A statement that hybrid technology, when executed with passion and precision, doesn’t dilute performance—it elevates it. It also signals the brand’s ongoing evolution toward more sustainable motoring, without sacrificing what makes a Ferrari, a Ferrari.
Final Verdict
The Ferrari 296 GTS is a masterclass in balance: brutal power with environmental awareness, jaw-dropping beauty with aerodynamic function, and open-top freedom with uncompromising speed. It is, quite simply, one of the finest modern Ferraris ever made—and one of the most exciting convertibles the world has ever seen.