Ferrari 296 GTS

Ferrari 296 GTS: Simplifying Complexity

Italian Styling and Tradition

The Ferrari 296 GTS embodies a clean and simple architectural design, redefining the essence of Italian car design principles. The car’s immaculate lines and cohesive volumes pay homage to the simplicity and functionality that became the signature of 1960s Ferraris. Drawing inspiration from classics like the 250 LM from 1963, elements such as the B pillar, rear wings, and Kamm tail showcase a harmonious blend of modernity and tradition. The Ferrari 296 GTS, with its unique identity, forges a link between the past and the present, maintaining the unwavering tradition of Ferrari’s iconic styling.

A Real Coupé and a True Spider

In the pursuit of simplicity, the Ferrari Styling Centre, led by Flavio Manzoni, faced the challenge of stowing the Retractable Hard Top (RHT) inside the engine compartment. This inspired the creation of a new tonneau cover design, resulting in distinctive styling elements not seen in recent Ferrari spiders. Unlike the horizontal engine bay and flying buttresses of the 296 GTB, the Ferrari 296 GTS boasts a tail that stands out as absolutely unique. This design innovation not only serves a functional purpose but also contributes to the car’s overall aesthetic appeal, marking a departure from conventional spider designs.

Variation on a Theme

Mirroring the architectural prowess of the 296 GTB, the Ferrari 296 GTS features the signature ‘aero bridge’ as its dominant design element. This aero bridge seamlessly integrates the compact cabin with the wings and flanks, creating a visually striking and aerodynamically efficient profile. The buttress theme, accentuated by sculpted extensions framing the engine cover screen, introduces a dynamic contrast while maintaining architectural harmony. The novel fuel filler and battery charge covers add a touch of innovation to the overall theme, showcasing Ferrari’s commitment to pushing design boundaries.

In essence, the Ferrari 296 GTS is not just a convertible masterpiece; it’s a testament to Ferrari’s ability to simplify complexity, offering a blend of Italian styling, functional innovation, and a unique variation on their design theme.

Ferrari 296 GTS: Redefining Performance Dynamics

Paradigm Shift: A Fusion of Form and Function

The Ferrari 296 GTS achieves unprecedented performance by optimizing its volumes, seamlessly integrating performance-oriented elements with sophisticated styling. The aerodynamic development undertaken results in a remarkable 10% increase in downforce in the low drag (LD) configuration, while the high downforce (HD) configuration, with the active spoiler, adds an additional 100 kg of downforce. This groundbreaking approach translates into unparalleled handling, braking performance, and an overall driving experience that defies traditional paradigms.

Radical Innovation: Turbo Configuration and Active Aero

The Ferrari 296 GTS introduces radical innovations, starting with the turbo’s placement in a hot-V configuration above the crankcase. This not only optimizes heat management for the engine bay but also enhances efficiency for the electrical components. Departing from Ferrari’s recent active aero conventions, the Ferrari 296 GTS utilizes an active device to generate extra downforce instead of managing drag. This paradigm shift underscores Ferrari’s commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing innovative solutions for elevated performance.

Active Spoiler: Redefining Aerodynamics

The active spoiler at the rear of the Ferrari 296 GTS revolutionizes the traditional concept seen in previous models. Unlike the past, where flaps on the diffuser transitioned between high-downforce (HD) and low-drag (LD) configurations, the Ferrari 296 GTS’ active aero device increases downforce when deployed. Integrated seamlessly into the tail design, the spoiler is stowed when maximum downforce isn’t needed but deploys when acceleration exceeds a specific threshold. This dynamic approach results in a substantial 100 kg increase in downforce over the rear axle, enhancing driver control during high-performance driving and minimizing stopping distances under braking.

Innovation to Power: Bursting onto the Scene

The Ferrari 296 GTS marks its entry into the mid-engined spider sports car range with a host of radical solutions. Placing the turbo above the vee of the crankcase in a hot-V configuration facilitates efficient heat management for both the engine bay and electrical components. The active aero paradigm takes a new direction, using an active device to generate downforce rather than managing drag. This innovative spirit underscores Ferrari’s commitment to powering the future of high-performance sports cars.

The Debut of the Tea-Tray: Front Aero Advancements

The front bumper of the Ferrari 296 GTS is not just a design element but a key player in generating downforce while increasing the cooling capacity of the underbody. The signature ‘tea-tray’ at the front, inspired by Ferrari’s GT racing experience, creates a high overpressure field that counters the depression field characterizing the underbody. This debut of the tea-tray represents a seamless blend of aerodynamics and cooling efficiency, showcasing Ferrari’s dedication to innovation in every aspect of design and performance.

Ferrari 296 GTS: Elevating Vehicle Dynamics

Advanced Control Functions

The dynamic development of the Ferrari 296 GTS is centered on enhancing pure performance and elevating driver engagement. Pioneering components like the Transition Manager Actuator (TMA) and the 6-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor (6w-CDS) play a pivotal role. Introducing new functions like the ABS EVO controller, which utilizes data from the 6w-CDS, and grip estimation integrated with the EPS, this spider inherits advanced control functions from its GTB counterpart, ensuring a seamless fusion of technology and dynamic prowess.

Explosive Power, Expert Control

Accessibility and usability of the Ferrari 296 GTS’s performance are paramount. In electric-only eDrive mode, the car achieves speeds up to 135 km/h without engaging the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE). The Hybrid mode strategically combines the ICE with the electric motor for enhanced performance. The ABS EVO, in tandem with the 6w-CDS sensor, not only shortens dry stopping distances significantly but also ensures consistent braking force under repeated heavy braking. This careful calibration of power and control defines the Ferrari 296 GTS driving experience.

Uncompromising Agility

The chassis of the Ferrari 296 GTS undergoes a meticulous redesign and optimization, enhancing torsional rigidity and beam stiffness compared to its predecessors. The A-pillar, B-pillar, and sills are the focal points of this redesign, contributing to a 50% improvement in torsional rigidity and an 8% enhancement in beam stiffness. This uncompromising approach to agility ensures that the Ferrari 296 GTS delivers a driving experience that transcends the limits of conventional spider applications.