Ferrari 296 GTS (2021)

Continuing a striking transformation in the thinking in Maranello, the Ferrari 296 GTS marks a new evolution in the Ferrari mid-rear-engined two-seater berlinetta spider concept. Powered by the V6 engine and rear-wheel drive plug-in hybrid architecture used in its hard topped cousin, the 296 GTB, and with design DNA reminiscent of the 250 LM, the car redefines the idea of driving fun, providing excitement not only on the racetrack, but in everyday driving.

The car’s power unit is rooted in Ferrari’s unparalleled racing history: the double Targe Florio-winning 246 SP, the 156 F1 ‘Sharknose’, 1982’s 126 C2, and all Ferrari Formula 1 cars since 2014 have been fitted with V6 engines, the latter with plug-in (PHEV) hybrid architecture that directly translates to the 296 GTB. This is the first Ferrari Spider to possess a rear-wheel drive hybrid system, and the electric motor, communicating with the internal combustion engine via a new TMA actuator, boosts the maximum power to a category-topping 830cv, increasing the car’s usability in everyday driving and driving fun, thanks to the instant throttle response. Electric driving in eDrive mode enables the car to reach a speed of 135 km/h without the aid of the internal combustion engine. The 120° vee configuration of this new engine has allowed Ferrari’s engineers to install the turbos centrally, reducing the unit’s overall dimensions and improving optimisation maximising the fluid dynamics and efficiency of the intake and exhaust line ducts. Sound-wise, the 296 GTB harmoniously combines two characteristics that are normally diametrically opposed: the force of the turbos and the harmony of the high-frequency notes of a naturally aspirated V12. This Ferrari’s soundtrack matches its performance, creating a sense of unprecedented involvement for the driver, and marking a new page in Maranello’s spider history.

The design changes made for the Ferrari 296 GTS further emphasise the clean, sophisticated lines of the 296 GTB. When the top is down, it is the peerlessly elegant epitome of the open-air hybrid concept. Its unprecedented architecture for a spider, in fact, opens a whole new chapter in the marque’s story. The 296 GTS’ team of designers retained the 296 GTB’s main characteristics, minimising the impact of any modifications on the exterior bodywork. The result is impeccably clean, simple architecture seems the work of a single pencil stroke. There are neither artificial optical effects nor stark colour contrasts. Instead, it has a unique identity that rewrites the entire rulebook by rediscovering the most authentic principles of Italian car design. Its clean forms and interlocking volumes enhance the uncompromisingly sporty character of the worthy heir to a philosophy that can be traced back to the very roots of Ferrari tradition. Its modernity references 1960s’ Ferraris, which made simplicity and functionality their signatures. The 250 LM from 1963, in particular, provided great inspiration through elements such as the design of the B pillar, the rear wings, and Kamm tail.

The 296 GTS breaks into the mid-engined spider sports car segment with radical and innovative aerodynamic choices, marking a reversal in the aerodynamic thinking at Maranello: on the 296 GTB, an active device is not there to manage drag, but to generate additional downforce. Ferrari engineers also developed a range of new components for use in the 296 GTB and GTS, including the TMA actuator and 6w-CDS body sensor, plus features such as the first-ever ‘ABS evo’ controller and grip estimator integrated with the EPS. Meticulous attention was paid to reducing weight to ensure the car’s balance and delicacy of handling, and the results are phenomenal.

This fine scale model of the 296 GTS has been handcrafted and finished in our workshops with the co-operation and assistance of Ferrari regarding original finishes, materials, archive imagery and drawings. The use of original CAD has allowed us to perfectly recreate every detail at scale. Furthermore, the prototype model has undergone detailed scrutiny by the Ferrari's engineering and design teams to ensure complete accuracy of representation.

The Ferrari 296 GTS is limited to just 199 pieces at 1:8 scale.