Hong Kong’s Ferraristi will be delighted as the Prancing Horse’s long-awaited mid-rear engine two-seater spider, the 296 GTS, has arrived in town after much anticipation.
Does it deliver on the expectations? Yes!
The open-top version of the 296 GTB, the 296 GTS shares the former’s new 663 CV 120° V6, making it the marque’s first road-going spider to sport a 6-cylinder engine. And like the 296 GTB, it’s coupled with an electric motor that can deliver a further 167 CV.
This plug-in hybrid system (PHEV) allows the roadster to generate a total power output of 830 CV and a maximum speed of over 330 km/h, while cutting pedal response time to zero. Meanwhile, with a torque of up to 740 Nm, the car can sprint from zero to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds. In its all-electric eDrive mode, the car enjoys a range of 25 kilometres.
The lightweight retractable hard top (RHT) is another highlight. When it’s stowed, the car’s sporty design shines (and you get that en plein air freedom); when it’s up, the silhouette resembles the 296 GTB. And of course, it’s quick to retract or deploy.
The separation line between the roof and the car’s body is above the B post, so the folding roof splits into two sections that fold flush over the front of the engine. This not only optimises the engine bay’s thermal dissipation characteristics, but it maintains the balance of the overall design—and it allowed the designers to add a rear window that clearly shows the beating V6 heart. With the top down, the cabin and the rear deck are separated by a height-adjustable glass rear screen, which ensures optimal passenger comfort even at high speeds.
For those seeking extreme performance, the 296 GTS is also available with the Assetto Fiorano package, which includes lightweight features and aero modifications to tweak the performance just that bit more. The most notable features include GT racing-derived adjustable Multimatic shock absorbers optimised for track use, and high-downforce carbon fibre appendages on the front bumper. You can also order a 250 Le Mans-inspired livery to set the pulse racing just that little bit more.
Upper images courtesy of Ferrari / Blackbird Concessionaires. Lower images of Ferrari 296 Assetto Fiorano courtesy of Ferrari.
