The "296 Speciale," the ultimate 296, has its Japan premiere.

Ferrari 296 Speciale | フェラーリ 296 スペチアーレ

Ferrari Japan unveiled the "296 Speciale," its latest special version plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model, for the first time in Japan at "Ferrari Racing Days 2025" held at Fuji Speedway on June 21.

Text by YANAKA Tomomi

Power-to-weight ratio records 1.6kg/cv with weight reduction.

"Speciale" signifies a special model. The newly introduced "296 Speciale" is claimed to have been developed to deliver driving excitement and a sense of unity, setting a new benchmark for the entire segment.

Emanuele Caland, Head of Product Marketing from Maranello, visited Japan for the premiere. On the left is Donato A. Romaniello, President and CEO of Ferrari Japan.

At the heart of the "296 Speciale" lies an evolved version of the V6 unit found in the "296 GTB" and "296 GTS," mounted midship. The V6 engine alone produces a maximum output of 515kW (700cv), an increase of 37cv over the "296 GTB." The engine itself also achieved a 9kg weight reduction through the use of materials like titanium.

Furthermore, with the addition of the PHEV system, the total maximum output reaches 648kW (880cv). Power is delivered to the rear wheels via an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, achieving a top speed of 330 km/h and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds.

The electric motor not only adds torque and power but is also used for charging the high-voltage battery and starting the internal combustion engine, enabling electric-only driving for up to 25 km.

Aerodynamics have also evolved. Total downforce at 250 km/h is 435 kg, a 20 percent increase from the "296 GTB." This result is attributed not only to the refinement of the original model but also to thorough optimization through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and wind tunnel testing, harmonizing aerodynamics with styling.

A striking feature of the styling is the side wings integrated into the rear. These wings, which wrap around the rear edges, have a curved shape and serve a dual purpose: the vertical fins optimize airflow in the wake to reduce drag, while the horizontal surfaces generate downforce.

The front incorporates the latest "ABS Evo" dynamic control system, enhancing braking precision and repeatability. The spring and damper settings have also been revised, lowering the ride height by 5 mm compared to the "296 GTB" and reducing maximum roll angle during cornering by 13 percent, resulting in improved vehicle behavior at the limit, according to Ferrari.

Emphasis has also been placed on weight reduction. In addition to the engine, carbon fiber and other materials have been incorporated into parts of the body shell, reducing the total weight by 60 kg compared to the "296 GTB" and achieving a power-to-weight ratio of 1.6 kg/cv.

The dynamic control system features the latest generation of "ABS Evo," enhancing braking accuracy and repeatability. The spring and damper settings have also been revised, lowering the ride height by 5 mm compared to the "296 GTB" and reducing maximum roll angle during cornering by 13 percent, resulting in improved vehicle behavior at the limit, according to Ferrari.

Turning to the interior, it follows the same philosophy as Ferrari's latest generation of special version models, offering a more minimalist environment designed to help the driver concentrate on driving.