Ferrari 296 GTB Speciale debuts in coupe and roadster flavors

Ferrari’s smallest car, the 296 GTB, is now obtainable in a particularly sporty edition called Speciale.

Aluminum pistons and titanium connecting rods borrowed from the F80 improve the output of the stock turbocharged six-cylinder engine. The hybrid system benefits from more efficient cooling, so the peak output to the rear wheels now amounts to 880 PS (868 hp / 647 kW). That’s a solid improvement over the standard 830 PS (819 hp / 610 kW).

The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission stays stock as far as the hardware is concerned, but optimized shift points let it take the 296 GTB Speciale from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 2.8 seconds and then to 200 km/h (124 mph) in 7 seconds. Ferrari says it laps its entire test track in 1 minute 19 seconds.

A simpler cockpit structure, lightweight engine components and other tricks shave off a further 60 kilos (132 pounds) of weight. A tweaked aero kit is said to deliver up to 20% more downforce, and the car feels more planted than ever thanks to a 5mm (0.2-inch) reduction in ride height. The exhaust system is new and boasts a distinct, immediately recognizable sound profile. With titanium suspension springs, Multimatic shocks borrowed from the 296 GT3 racer and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2, the new Speciale is a formidable track weapon.

The Maranello HQ offers the coupe in an exclusive shade of green called Verde Nürburgring (see video number 1). For the roadster version, see 296 Speciale A (video number 2 in the gallery here).