MOTORING NEWS
engine compartment covers. These measures cut over 60 kg from the 296 Speciale ' s weight compared to the 296 GTB, resulting in noticeably improved agility and responsiveness. Every part of the car, from the engine to the bodyshell and interior, underwent mass minimization.
The 296 Speciale ' s advanced ABS Evo, uses a 6D sensor and vehicle dynamics estimator for precise speed determination. This enables optimized brake force distribution by setting target slippage for each wheel, accurately managing longitudinal force during braking. This improves braking repeatability and consistency, minimizing deviations from target performance due to component tolerances and varying road conditions.
The retractable rear spoiler comes with multiple positions: Low Drag( LD) for full retraction, an intermediate position for quicker High Downforce( HD) transition, Medium Downforce( MD) for high-speed stability without sacrificing top speed, and High Downforce( HD) for maximum rear downforce and stability during high lateral acceleration or hard braking.
The Speciale ' s suspension, featuring calibrated springs, linkage geometries, lower mass, and center of gravity, achieves 4 % higher lateral acceleration and 13 % lower roll than the 296 GTB. It utilizes Multimatic ® single-rate shock absorbers from the 296 GT3 and titanium springs for reduced weight, with damping finetuned virtually for optimal track and road performance. The 296 Speciale ' s Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tyre, leveraging F80
experience and virtual simulation, optimizes dynamics and usability across conditions with increased sidewall and lateral rigidity, plus a new tread compound and pattern for improved grip. The F80- derived tread compound ensures consistent, extended usability across a wider operating window. The Ferrari 296 Speciale ' s design, a collaboration with Flavio Manzoni ' s Styling Centre, is a radical homage to closedwheel racing, prioritizing form and function, and distinguishing it from the 296 GTB.
The front boasts potent performance and motorsport heritage with a scalloped bonnet, a wider body-colored splitter, and larger air intakes emphasizing dynamism and lightness.
AUGUST 2025 39 WORDS IN ACTION