Few indulgences can match a drop-top Ferrari’s ability to excite our senses. After a hiatus, Ferrari has unveiled an open-top model, the 296 GTS, and for those who don’t know, the 296 GTS is the roofless version of the mid-engined Prancing Horse – the 296 GTB. You can drool over it here in pictures.
Two-seater mid-rear engine Berlinetta Spider 296 GTS is the newest variant of Ferrari’s mid-rear-engined Berlinetta Spider. They belonged to Dino’s V6-powered supercar family earlier. As with its GTB counterparts, the 296 GTS features a hybrid powertrain.
It is powered by a 3.0-litre turbo-charged V6 paired to electric motors, where the V6 makes 650 horsepower and the electric motors add 122 horsepower (around 165bhp). In 2.9 seconds, the car can accelerate from 0-100kmph with 818bhp combined.
A top speed of 330kmph is possible. Through an eight-speed DCT and an e-differential, all of the power is sent to the rear wheels. Pure electric range is 25 kilometers for the 296 GTS, which comes with a battery capacity of 7.45kWh.
To take advantage of the sunshine on the Riviera or to cruise along the streets of Monte Carlo, the retractable hardtop on the 296 GTS can be lowered within 14 seconds at speeds up to 45kmph. Two sections of the roof fold flush under a flying buttress.
With a weight of only 1540kg, the 296 GTS is around 70kg heavier than the GTB coupe. Ferrari claims its open-top pays special attention to its aerodynamics. This includes an active rear spoiler inspired by LaFerrari.
Besides the standard 296 GTS, the Prancing Horse provides an Assetto Fiorano model, which provides more downforce, a lighter chassis, and more sticky Michelin tyres.
It hasn’t been announced when the 296 GTS will be available, nor has it been revealed how much it will cost. It may seem the 296 GTS is too expensive, but it can’t be.
