In June of 2021, Ferrari launched its very first V-6 supercar with a Ferrari badge (the Dino didn’t carry the Ferrari name), and now it’s time for something a little more practical. I’m talking about, of course, the Ferrari 296 GTS, which doesn’t come with any extra cargo capacity, creature comforts, or new tech. Well, with exception of the new retractable roof that needs just 14 seconds to open and close.

The Ferrari 296 GTS – It’s A Spyder Until It’s Not

The great thing about Ferrari’s GTS (Gran Turismo Spider) models is that they largely maintain the appearance of the coupe they are based on. This comes thanks to the retractable hardtop that, in the case of the 296 GTS, can be opened or closed in just 14 seconds and can be operated at speeds of up to 30 mph or 45 km/h for those of you on the other side of the big drink. What’s even cooler about the roof is how it operates. When the button is pressed, the roof will split into two distinct sections and fold flush over the engine bay. Now, this would block the view of that glorious V-6, but Ferrari thought of that and made sure that you can still see it through the window in the rear section.

Naturally, being a GTS means that there’s a weight penalty included thanks to the extra hardware required and the structural reinforcements. Fortunately, Ferrari handles this in stride, so the weight penalty is practically negligible. With the Asseetto Fiorano Package, the 296 GTS’ dry curb weight is just 1,540 KG or 3,395 pounds. That means that the GTS is just 70 KG or 154 pounds heavier than the coupe it is based on.


Powertrain

2.9-liter, V-6 + rear electric motor

Gasoline power

654 HP

Electric power

164 HP

Combined power

818 HP

0 to 62 mph

2.9 seconds

0 to 124 mph

7.6 seconds

Top speed

205 mph


The 3.0-liter V-6 under the rear deck is goof for 663 horsepower, but the hybrid system bumps total system output up to 830 horsepower and 546 pound-feet of torque. Thanks to this power output and the minimal weight penalty, the 296 GTS is capable of hitting 62 mph in 2.9 seconds or 124 mph in 7.6 seconds. The former figure is identical to that of the 296 GTB, though the latter comes 0.3-seconds slower. Ferrari says that GTS has a top speed of over 205 mph, but if you stick to electric power only (from the 7.45 kWh battery pack) you’ll have a top speed of just 84 mph for up to 25 km or 15.53 miles. Shifting duties are handled by the same eight-speed, dual-clutch transmission found in the GTB, SF90 Stradale, and the Ferrari Roma.