Ferrari 296 GTB: Redefining Excitement
The F171 is the latest evolution of Ferrari’s mid-rear engined two-seater sports berlinetta concept. The car is revolutionary technically as it introduces a new 120° V6 engine to the Maranello range, coupled with a plug-in (PHEV) electric motor capable of delivering a maximum of 830 cv. However, it is also revolutionary from a design and aerodynamic point of view, with innovative shapes and solutions that break with the past. The car can thus provide incomparable driving thrills either when you are on the circuit and looking for maximum performance or in everyday driving.
POWERTRAIN
The F171 is the first Prancing Horse road car to feature a 120° V6 turbo engine. Its structure means that the turbochargers can fit within the “Vee”. This helps it achieve extraordinarily high power levels (663 cv). The Ferrari V6 also sets a record of 221 cv/l for specific torque output for a production car. This architecture is rooted in the Prancing Horse’s incomparable racing experience: the first Ferrari to fit a mid-rear V6 was the 246 SP in 1961, which won the Targa Florio that year and in 1962. Also, in 1961, Ferrari claimed its first Formula 1 Constructors’ title with the 156 F1 powered by a 120° V6. Ferrari installed mid-mounted turbos on the 126 CK and then on the 126 C2, which in 1982 became the first turbocharged single-seater to win the Formula 1 World Championship. The triumphant 126 C3 followed hot on its tails in 1983. Finally, the V6 PHEV turbo architecture has been shared by all Formula 1 cars since 2014
AERODYNAMICS
The F171 breaks into the sports berlinetta segment with radical and innovative choices. The turbocharger in the “Vee” of the crankcase improves thermal management of the engine compartment and electrical components. On the F171, an active aerodynamic device at the rear aims to generate additional downforce. The aerodynamics of the F171 provides 10% more downforce than previously in LD (Low Drag) configuration, with a further 100 kg added thanks to the active HD (High Downforce) spoiler. What this means in practice is unprecedented handling, braking performance and driving excitement
VEHICLE DYNAMICS
The dynamic development of the F171 aimed to increase the car’s performance, provide top-of-class driving fun, and improve the usability of its performance and hybrid layout. A range of new components or features has been developed, such as the first-ever ‘ABS evo’ controller and grip estimator integrated with the EPS. The usability of performance is critical on the F171: for example, electric driving in eDrive mode enables the car to reach a speed of 135 km/h without the aid of the internal combustion engine. In the Hybrid position, the internal combustion engine supports the electric motor only when higher performance is required. Stopping distances on dry surfaces have been significantly shortened by the new ‘ABS evo’ and its integration with the new 6w-CDS sensor, ensuring greater repeatability of the braking action.
EXTERIOR
The design of the F171 redefines the identity of Ferrari’s mid-rear-engined berlinetta, giving the car a compact, modern and original line. Its short wheelbase and monolithic appearance make it the most compact berlinetta from Maranello of the last decade. Having abandoned the typical fastback berlinetta layout, the Ferrari Style Centre focused on creating a cabin set within a powerful volume. The car has a unique identity, which rewrites the rules while rediscovering the authentic principles of Italian design: formal cleanliness and clear-cut lines enhance the sportiness of this worthy heir to a philosophy deeply rooted in Ferrari tradition. Its modernity refers back to cars of the sixties with their simplicity and functionality, including the 1963 250 LM, which provided notable elements of inspiration such as the cut of the “B” pillar, the rear mudguard and the truncated tail.
INTERIOR
The cabin is built around the full-digital interface introduced on the SF90 Stradale, and it is its visual congruity with the latter that defines the shapes of its fittings. However, on the F171, the aim was to assimilate the technical content into a refined look. The result is pure and characterised by considerable elegance. Most of the instruments are concentrated on the driver’s side. The cockpit is created from a break in the dashboard from which the steering wheel and instrument panel emerge. The passenger area has a minimalist look; the display offers the chance to participate in the journey, almost like a co-driver.
ASSETTO FIORANO
Customers wishing to make the most of the car’s dynamic characteristics, especially during track days, can select the F171 in the exclusive Assetto Fiorano set-up, achieving performance improvements thanks to its aerodynamics and weight reduction. These include Multimatic dampers derived from GT racing, carbon fibre aids on the front bumper, and the use of lightweight materials such as carbon fibre. The structure of some components has been totally redesigned to save more than 12 kg. Also available, only for the Assetto Fiorano set-up, is the ultra-light rear screen in Lexan® and a livery inspired by the 250 LM. This starts with the front bumper, whose background embraces the central grille and outlines its contours, continuing first on the bonnet and then longitudinally up to the roof and rear spoiler.
