Ferrari 296 GTS: Complete UK Buyer’s Guide & Performance Review

Ferrari purists said it couldn’t be done. A V6 hybrid wearing the prancing horse badge? Heresy. Yet here sits the Ferrari 296 GTS, silencing doubters with 830 PS, a retractable hardtop that vanishes in 14 seconds, and acceleration that blurs your vision. This isn’t just Ferrari’s first V6 road car since the Dino—it’s proof that electrification can enhance rather than dilute the supercar experience.

The question UK buyers keep asking: is the convertible 296 GTS worth £45,000 more than the GTB coupé when both post identical 2.9-second 0-62 mph times?

Quick Facts: Ferrari 296 GTS
• Price: From £244,600 (UK base)
• Engine: 3.0L V6 twin-turbo + electric motor
• Total Power: 830 PS (818 hp / 610 kW)
• 0-62 mph: 2.9 seconds
• Top Speed: 330 km/h (205 mph)
• Weight: 1,540 kg dry (70 kg more than GTB)
• Roof Type: Retractable hardtop (14-second operation)
• Electric Range: 25 km pure EV mode

This review covers real-world driving impressions, detailed specifications, and reliability information, and helps you decide whether the open-top experience justifies the premium.

Ferrari 296 GTS vs 296 GTB: Key Differences

The most common question UK buyers ask is whether the convertible GTS justifies spending approximately £45,000 more than the GTB coupé. Here’s what separates them.

Weight and Structural Differences

The Ferrari 296 GTS weighs 70 kg more than the GTB (1,540 kg vs 1,470 kg dry weight). Nearly 65 kg of this extra weight comes from the retractable hardtop mechanism, whilst the remaining 5 kg is additional carbon fibre reinforcement in the sills and A-pillar sections to compensate for the missing fixed roof structure.

Ferrari’s engineers worked to maintain chassis stiffness as close to the GTB as possible. They report approximately 30% additional chassis flexibility in the GTS—a figure they consider acceptable given the performance parity between both models.

Performance Impact

Despite the extra weight, both models achieve impressive acceleration figures that tell only part of the story.

• 0-62 mph: 2.9 seconds (both models)
• 0-124 mph: 7.6 seconds GTS vs 7.3 seconds GTB (0.3-second deficit)
• Top Speed: 330 km/h for both (205 mph)

The Fiorano lap time tells a different story. The GTB posts an official 1’21″80, whilst Ferrari hasn’t published official GTS times. Industry testing suggests the GTS is approximately 1-1.5 seconds slower per lap due to increased weight and altered aerodynamics with the roof down.

Roof Mechanism

The aluminium retractable hardtop takes 14 seconds to open or close, operating at speeds up to 45 km/h (28 mph). When lowered, the roof folds into the space above the engine bay beneath a tonneau cover, maintaining the car’s aerodynamic profile.

With the roof up, rear visibility remains excellent thanks to the glass engine cover. With the roof down, Ferrari installed a roll-down rear window and additional sound ducts to channel the V6’s distinctive note into the cabin.

Price Premium

UK pricing (2024-2025 model years):

• 296 GTB: From £201,000 (estimate based on used market)
• 296 GTS: From £244,600
• Premium: Approximately £43,600

Used examples currently trade between £249,495 and £288,980 depending on mileage, specification, and colour.

Which Should You Buy?

Your choice ultimately depends on how you plan to use the car and what matters most in your ownership experience.

Choose the 296 GTB if:

• You prioritise absolute track performance
• Structural rigidity matters more than open-air motoring
• You want to allocate the £40,000+ premium toward options or track days
• You regularly attend circuit events

Choose the 296 GTS if:

• Open-air driving is essential to your Ferrari ownership experience
• You primarily drive on the road rather than the track
• The weight penalty doesn’t concern you for your intended use
• You value the versatility of both open and closed driving

For UK buyers, consider that our climate means the roof will be closed frequently. However, many reviewers note the 296 GTS feels slightly more engaging than the GTB, with better feedback through the chassis—making it the more rewarding road car despite being theoretically less capable.

Ferrari 296 GTS: Performance and Powertrain

The Ferrari 296 GTS combines traditional combustion power with electric assistance to create a powertrain that delivers both explosive acceleration and unexpected efficiency.

How Fast is the Ferrari 296 GTS?

The Ferrari 296 GTS delivers breathtaking performance figures that match or exceed most competitors:

• 0-62 mph: 2.9 seconds (verified)
• 0-124 mph: 7.6 seconds
• Top Speed: 330 km/h (205 mph) with roof open or closed
• Quarter-Mile: Under 10 seconds (estimated 9.6-9.8 seconds)
• Electric-Only Top Speed: 135 km/h (84 mph)

Real-world acceleration feels violent yet controlled. The electric motor fills in any turbo lag, creating an almost perfectly linear power delivery from 2,000 rpm through to the 8,500 rpm redline. Unlike many turbocharged supercars where power arrives in a sudden rush, the 296 GTS builds speed relentlessly and predictably.

The “Piccolo V12” V6 Engine

At the heart of the Ferrari 296 GTS sits an engineering marvel—a V6 that sounds like it has six more cylinders. Ferrari engineers call the 296’s engine the “piccolo V12” (little V12) due to its distinctive sound character. The 120-degree cylinder bank angle and symmetrical firing order mimic the audio signature of a naturally aspirated V12, despite having only six cylinders.

Engine Specifications:

• Displacement: 2,992 cc
• Configuration: 120° V6 twin-turbocharged
• Maximum Power: 654 hp @ 8,000 rpm (ICE only)
• Maximum Torque: 740 Nm @ 6,250 rpm
• Redline: 8,500 rpm
• Compression Ratio: 9.4:1
• Turbochargers: IHI twin mono-scroll (180,000 rpm maximum)

The engine sits low in the chassis thanks to individual intake plenums integrated into each cylinder head. This compact design reduces the engine’s weight to 66 pounds lighter than the V8 it replaces, despite producing more power.

Hybrid System Operation

The 296 GTS uses a parallel hybrid configuration with the electric motor mounted between the V6 and the 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox. This allows four distinct operating modes:

• eDrive Mode: Pure electric propulsion up to 25 km range at speeds below 135 km/h. The V6 remains off, offering silent city driving. This mode is particularly useful in London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) or other congestion charge areas.
  
• Hybrid Mode: Default setting where the system automatically balances petrol and electric power for optimal efficiency. The V6 starts and stops based on demand. The battery drains relatively quickly in normal driving—expect 10-15 minutes of mixed driving before the V6 takes over completely.
  
• Performance Mode: Maintains battery charge between 20-80% whilst prioritising performance. Both power sources work together continuously. This mode takes approximately 20 minutes of road driving to recharge the battery from empty.
  
• Qualify Mode: Maximum attack mode, deploying full 830 PS. The battery depletes rapidly but provides the highest performance level for track use or maximum acceleration runs. In this mode, stability control intervention is minimised, though the system still monitors progress to prevent accidents.

The 7.45 kWh battery fully charges in approximately 4 hours on a standard UK home charger or 2.5 hours using a dedicated 7 kW wallbox. Ferrari doesn’t supply a Type 2 charging cable as standard—it’s an optional extra.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The gearbox responds with supercar-appropriate speed whilst remaining smooth enough for daily driving. The 8-speed F1 dual-clutch transmission shifts with remarkable speed and smoothness. In automatic mode, the gearbox makes intelligent decisions, holding gears during spirited driving and upshifting early for efficiency during cruising.

Manual mode, engaged via the right paddle, provides complete control with millisecond gear changes and no perceptible power interruption. The transmission’s logic prevents money shifts (over-revving) by refusing downshifts that would exceed the 8,500 rpm redline.

Power goes exclusively to the rear wheels through an electronically controlled, limited-slip differential. Despite 830 PS going through two rear tyres measuring 305/35 R20, traction is excellent thanks to sophisticated electronics and Ferrari’s e-Diff system.

Ferrari 296 GTS Reliability and Ownership

Understanding long-term reliability and running costs is essential when considering an investment of £250,000 or more.

Is the Ferrari 296 GTS Reliable?

The 296 GTS uses proven hybrid technology derived from the SF90 platform, now in its fourth year of production since the 296 line launched in 2022. Early reliability reports are generally positive, though some issues have emerged.

Known Issues:

• Fuel Line Recall (2022-2023 models): In May 2023, Ferrari recalled 425 units of the 296 GTB and GTS from the 2022-2023 model years due to a design flaw that allowed corrosion on a fuel connecting pipe. A chemical reaction between the fuel pipe and battery cover could lead to fuel leaks near ignition sources, presenting a fire risk. Ferrari issued a “do not drive” advisory until the fix was completed. The issue was discovered during a pre-delivery inspection in China and has since been rectified on all affected vehicles.
  
• Minor Software Glitches: Some owners report occasional software hiccups with hybrid system management, particularly during cold starts or when switching between drive modes. These typically resolve with an engine restart.
  
• Battery Conditioning: The hybrid battery requires proper conditioning in cold climates. Owners in northern UK regions report reduced electric range during winter months—expect 15-18 km rather than the advertised 25 km in temperatures below 5°C.
  
• Carbon Ceramic Brake Squealing: During the break-in period (first 500-1,000 miles), carbon ceramic brakes may squeal during light braking. This is normal and typically resolves as the pads bed in.

Warranty Coverage

Ferrari provides better warranty coverage than most exotic car manufacturers:

• Limited Warranty: 3 years (4 years UK standard), unlimited mileage
• Hybrid Components Warranty: 5 years, unlimited mileage (covers the battery pack, e-motors, and inverters)
• Complimentary Maintenance: 7 years, unlimited mileage (covers all scheduled services)
• Corrosion Warranty: 12 years

The 7-year complimentary maintenance is particularly generous and a significant cost saver. Typical Ferrari annual services cost £2,500-£4,000, meaning you save approximately £17,500-£28,000 over seven years.

Long-Term Ownership Costs

Beyond the purchase price, budgeting for annual running costs prevents nasty surprises.

Estimated Annual Running Costs:

• Insurance: £5,000-£8,000 (Group 50, highest insurance group)
• Road Tax (VED):
  • Year 1: £540 (based on low CO₂ emissions for PHEVs registered after April 2017).
  • Years 2 to 6: £620 annually. This is the £195 standard rate plus the £425 Expensive Vehicle Supplement (Luxury Car Tax) applied because the car’s list price exceeds £40,000.
  • Year 7 onwards: £195 annually (standard rate only).
• Fuel Costs: £1,200-£2,000 annually (based on 3,000 miles mixed driving at 47 MPGe combined)
• Servicing: £0 (covered under warranty for 7 years)
• Tyres: £3,000-£4,000 per set (Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R or Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2)
• Brake Replacement: £18,000-£22,000 for carbon ceramics (expected every 30,000-40,000 miles depending on use)

Major Service Items:

• Hybrid Battery Replacement: £12,000-£15,000 (expected after 8-10 years or 80,000-100,000 miles)
• Clutch Replacement: £8,000-£12,000 (dual-clutch service every 30,000-50,000 miles)
• Major Service: Covered under warranty for 7 years

Depreciation:

Early data suggests the Ferrari 296 GTS holds value well. 2023 models with 3,000-6,000 miles are trading for £249,000-£260,000, representing approximately 10-15% depreciation in the first year. This is excellent for a convertible supercar.

Expect total depreciation of 30-40% over five years, though final edition models and special colours may depreciate less. Rosso Corsa (Ferrari red) and Blu Tour de France remain the most desirable colours for resale value.

Reliability Rating

Overall Rating: 4/5 stars

The 296 GTS scores above average for exotic sports cars. The fuel line recall is concerning but has been addressed. Hybrid system reliability remains to be fully proven over 10+ years, though early signs are positive. Ferrari’s 7-year maintenance coverage provides peace of mind for the critical warranty period.

For comparison, the Lamborghini Huracán is widely considered the most reliable supercar on the market, whilst McLarens historically struggle with electrical gremlins and build quality issues.

Ferrari 296 GTS Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the Ferrari 296 GTS reveals why Ferrari remains the benchmark for supercar dynamics.

On the Road

The 296 GTS delivers a more forgiving and accessible driving experience than its 830 PS output might suggest. Visibility is excellent for a mid-engined supercar, with good sightlines forward and reasonable rear visibility even with the roof up.

The ride quality is surprisingly plush in Hybrid or Sport modes. The adaptive dampers absorb rough UK B-roads without harsh impacts, though you feel the car’s low ground clearance over speed bumps. The front axle lift system (optional extra) is essential for UK roads—it raises the nose by 40mm at speeds below 40 km/h.

Steering weight is perfectly judged—light enough for low-speed manoeuvring, progressively heavier as speeds increase. The short-ratio steering rack requires minimal arm movement through tight corners. Feedback through the wheel is good, though some rivals (notably Porsche’s GT products) provide more detailed communication.

The Handling Balance

The chassis engineers have delivered a car that feels approachable rather than intimidating despite its substantial power output.

Despite sending 830 PS exclusively to the rear wheels, the 296 GTS feels remarkably benign and confidence-inspiring. The sophisticated traction control systems work invisibly in the background, allowing power down earlier than you’d expect.

The chassis feels beautifully balanced with a hint of natural oversteer when you lift off mid-corner or arrive at a bend too quickly. The electronic differential manages power distribution between the rear wheels, helping rotate the car through tighter corners.

With stability control in Race mode or CT Off, you can provoke slides exiting corners. The oversteer is surprisingly gentle and progressive—easy to catch with opposite lock.

Engine and Exhaust Note

The soundtrack may not satisfy V12 purists, but the V6 creates its own compelling audio signature. It sounds distinctive rather than traditional Ferrari-esque. The 120-degree cylinder bank angle creates a unique timbre—halfway between a V8 and V12. It lacks the shrieking top-end wail of a naturally aspirated V12 but produces a more cultured sound than typical turbocharged sixes.

Ferrari’s “hot tube”exhaust resonator pipes natural engine sound into the cabin before exhaust gases reach the catalytic converters. This provides a more authentic experience than artificial sound augmentation through speakers.

The exhaust note changes character through the rev range: subdued below 4,000 rpm. Between 4,000-6,500 rpm, the turbos sing, and the V6 develops a harder edge. Above 6,500 rpm, approaching the 8,500 rpm redline, the sound becomes genuinely exciting—not quite V12 opera, but engaging nonetheless.

With the roof down, the experience intensifies. The roll-down rear window and sound ducts flood the cabin with mechanical noise: turbo whistle, wastegate chatter, and the V6’s crescendo.

Track Performance

Take the GTS to a circuit, and it demonstrates capabilities that exceed most drivers’ abilities. On circuit, the 296 GTS feels unshakeable. The carbon ceramic brakes provide massive stopping power with good pedal feel, though initial bite at lower temperatures can be slightly grabby.

Turn-in is immediate and precise. The car rotates willingly mid-corner and deploys power exceptionally cleanly on exit. Lap times arrive easily without drama—the electronics doing much of the hard work whilst making you feel like a hero.

The short 2,600mm wheelbase makes the car feel agile and responsive to direction changes. Compared to the GTB, the GTS exhibits slightly more body flex through long, loaded corners, though the difference is marginal unless you’re driving at nine-tenths or beyond.

Most owners will find the GTS every bit as capable as needed for UK track days. Only professional drivers or serious track enthusiasts pushing for ultimate lap times will notice the structural deficit compared to the GTB.

Ferrari 296 GTS Interior Design and Technology

The cabin reflects Ferrari’s move towards digital minimalism, though not every decision enhances usability.

Cabin Layout

The 296 GTS interior reflects Ferrari’s current minimalist design philosophy. Italian leather covers the seats and most surfaces, available in numerous colours and stitching patterns through Ferrari’s Tailor Made programme.

The dashboard features an entirely digital interface derived from the SF90. The main instrument cluster sits directly ahead of the driver, displaying speed, revs, navigation, and vehicle information. A head-up display projects key data onto the windscreen, though it’s relatively small and can wash out in bright sunlight.

The centre console houses a push-button gear selector inspired by Ferrari’s classic gated manual shifters. A small compartment holds the key fob. Climate controls use a slim touchscreen interface with haptic feedback—functional but occasionally fussy when wearing gloves.

The passenger gets a dedicated display showing speed, revs, and G-forces. Ferrari markets this as making the passenger feel like a “co-driver,” though in reality, it mainly serves to terrify passengers by showing exactly how fast you’re cornering.

Steering Wheel Complexity

Ferrari’s decision to mount nearly every control on the steering wheel creates the cabin’s most frustrating ergonomic challenge. The steering wheel bristles with controls: manettino dial (stability control), e-manettino dial (hybrid modes), indicators, wiper controls, headlight controls, and launch control button.

This creates confusion initially—you’ll accidentally activate the wipers when trying to indicate or change drive modes when adjusting stability control. Most owners adapt after a few hundred miles, but it remains unnecessarily complicated.

Ferrari argues this design keeps your hands on the wheel, never needing to reach for dashboard controls. This is technically true but feels overwrought compared to Porsche’s more intuitive approach.

Storage and Practicality

Storage is minimal. A small glovebox holds documents. The centre console bins are restrictive—barely accommodate a phone and a wallet. The front boot (frunk) measures just 113 litres, sufficient for a small overnight bag or a soft helmet bag for track days.

The 296 GTS makes no pretence at being practical. This is a weekend toy or second car, not a daily driver (though some owners do use them daily).

Infotainment System

Modern connectivity features are present, but the interface lags behind premium rivals in user-friendliness. The 296 GTS doesn’t use a traditional infotainment screen. Audio and navigation functions integrate into the digital instrument cluster, controlled via steering wheel buttons.

The system is clumsy to use whilst driving—inputting navigation destinations requires multiple button presses through nested menus. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connect wirelessly but display on the relatively small instrument cluster rather than a dedicated screen.

Sound quality from the standard audio system is adequate but not exceptional. The optional JBL premium system provides noticeably better fidelity, though road and wind noise at speed overwhelms audio quality regardless.

Seats and Driving Position

The standard seats provide good support for spirited driving whilst remaining comfortable for longer journeys. Side bolsters hold you firmly without being restrictive. The optional carbon fibre racing seats (Daytona seats) save weight and look spectacular but sacrifice some comfort—only choose these if you prioritise aesthetics and weight savings over all-day comfort.

The driving position is low-slung and enveloping—you sit in the car rather than on it. Forward visibility is good thanks to the relatively high bonnet line. Rear three-quarter visibility is limited with the roof up but excellent with it down.

Pedal placement is perfect for heel-and-toe downshifts, though the automatic rev-matching in Sport mode makes this unnecessary except for the satisfaction of perfect technique.

Ferrari 296 GTS Exterior Design and Aerodynamics

The Ferrari 296 GTS maintains the GTB’s clean, purposeful shape with minimal styling concessions for the convertible format. The design won the Production Car category at the Car Design Award 2022.

Key Design Elements

The front features Ferrari’s signature narrow headlights incorporating small air intakes. A low dual front spoiler sits below the aggressive front bumper intakes, channelling air to the radiators and around the car’s flanks.

Along the profile, a deep shoulder line leads to prominent air intakes ahead of the rear wheels, feeding cooling air to the rear brakes and intercoolers. The unique hip curve creates a distinctive silhouette that looks purposeful from any angle.

The redesigned rear deck lid accommodates the folding roof mechanism whilst providing glimpses of the V6 engine through the glass cover. The active rear spoiler deploys at speed, generating downforce whilst maintaining the car’s clean lines when retracted.

Narrow LED taillights sit below the aggressive rear diffuser. The exhaust emerges from a central position, encased in the diffuser’s ventilating mesh—a controversial design choice that some feel looks unfinished compared to traditional twin exhaust outlets.

Aerodynamic Performance

Despite losing the fixed roof, the 296 GTS maintains aerodynamics remarkably close to the GTB. The active rear spoiler generates identical downforce in both configurations.

Ferrari hasn’t published specific drag coefficients, but the carefully sculpted bodywork minimises turbulence with the roof down. Wind buffeting is minimal at motorway speeds thanks to aerodynamic flaps deployed from the windscreen header.

Ferrari 296 GTS: Comparison with Key Rivals

The Ferrari 296 GTS competes in a rarified segment where performance, prestige, and price intersect.

Model	Power	0-62 mph	UK Price	Electric Range
Ferrari 296 GTS	830 PS	2.9s	£244,600	25 km
Lamborghini Huracán Evo Spyder	640 PS	3.1s	~£218,000	N/A
McLaren 765LT Spider	765 PS	2.8s	~£310,000	N/A
McLaren Artura Spider	700 PS	3.0s	~£230,000	33 km
Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet	650 PS	2.7s	£155,970	N/A
Maserati MC20 Cielo	630 PS	3.0s	~£230,000	N/A

Key Differentiators

The 296 GTS is the only mid-engined Italian supercar offering a meaningful plug-in hybrid electric range. The McLaren Artura Spider is the closest rival with hybrid technology but uses a carbon fibre monocoque (versus the Ferrari’s aluminium construction) and delivers a slightly different driving character—more clinical, less emotional.

The Lamborghini Huracán Evo Spyder (now discontinued) offers naturally aspirated V10 drama but feels less technologically advanced. The MC20 Cielo provides better value but doesn’t match the Ferrari’s performance or prestige.

Ferrari 296 GTS Pricing and Specifications

Understanding the full cost of ownership requires looking beyond the base price to typical as-configured costs and popular options.

UK Pricing (2024-2025)

• Base Price: £244,600
• Typical As-Configured: £280,000-£320,000
• Assetto Fiorano Package: +£30,000
• Premium Paint (Special): £12,000-£22,000
• Carbon Fibre Options: £8,000-£45,000
• Daytona Carbon Seats: £8,500
• Front Axle Lift System: £3,500
• JBL Premium Audio: £5,000

Popular Options to Consider

Selecting the right options can significantly enhance your ownership experience without unnecessarily inflating costs.

Essential Options:

• Front axle lift system (£3,500) – Mandatory for UK roads
• Parking sensors front/rear (£1,200) – Essential for tight spaces
• Rear camera (£800) – Included on most UK spec cars

Desirable Options:

• Assetto Fiorano package (£30,000) – Adds Multimatic dampers, carbon wheels, carbon interior trim, and 250 LM-inspired livery whilst reducing weight by 12 kg
• Premium paint (£12,000-£22,000) – Blu Tour de France, Giallo Modena, and special historical colours
• Carbon fibre racing seats (£8,500) – Dramatic but less comfortable
• Scuderia Ferrari shields (£2,500) – Adds prestige

Nice-to-Have Options:

• JBL premium audio (£5,000) – Better sound quality
• Carbon fibre steering wheel (£3,200) – Looks and feels special
• Electrochromic roof panel (£4,500) – Dims rear window glass electronically
• Telemetry system (£6,500) – Records lap times and performance data

Running Costs Summary

Budgeting for the total cost of ownership helps avoid financial surprises during the honeymoon period.

Year One Costs (excluding depreciation):

• Insurance: £6,000 (average)
• Road Tax: £600
• Fuel: £1,500 (assuming 3,000 miles)
• Servicing: £0 (covered under warranty)
• Total: £8,100

Years Two-Seven (annual):

• Insurance: £6,000
• Road Tax: £400
• Fuel: £1,500
• Servicing: £0 (covered under warranty)
• Annual Total: £7,900

This assumes normal road use without track days. Add £2,000-£5,000 annually if you attend regular circuit events (tyres and brake wear).

Ferrari 296 GTS: Verdict

The Ferrari 296 GTS represents Ferrari’s successful transition to electrified powertrains without sacrificing the emotional engagement that defines the brand. The hybrid V6 provides explosive performance whilst offering the practical benefits of electric-only city driving.

What Works

• Explosive yet accessible performance (830 PS feels manageable)
• Distinctive V6 soundtrack enhanced by open-top experience
• Better steering feel and engagement than the GTB (according to several reviewers)
• Remarkably good ride quality for a supercar
• Excellent build quality and material richness
• 7-year complimentary maintenance programme
• Retractable hardtop provides weather protection when needed
• Strong residual values relative to competitors

What Doesn’t

• Steering wheel button overload creates ergonomic confusion
• Infotainment system is clumsy and dated versus rivals
• Limited storage space and practicality
• Relatively short electric range (25 km) versus McLaren Artura (33 km)
• V6 lacks the emotional impact of a V12
• £40,000+ premium over GTB for relatively modest benefits
• Fuel line recall on early models raises reliability questions

Who Should Buy It?

The 296 GTS suits buyers who:

• Want cutting-edge Ferrari hybrid technology
• Prioritise open-air driving over ultimate track capability
• Drive primarily on road rather than circuit
• Value the versatility of electric-only city driving
• Can afford £8,000-£10,000 annual running costs
• Seek a weekend supercar or second car

Who Should Look Elsewhere?

Consider alternatives if:

• You prioritise naturally aspirated engine sound (look at Porsche GT3 Touring)
• Ultimate track performance matters most (choose the 296 GTB or McLaren 765LT)
• You want a more practical daily supercar (consider Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet)
• Budget constraints make the £40,000 GTS premium difficult to justify
• You need more cargo space (there isn’t a supercar that solves this)

Final Thoughts

The Ferrari 296 GTS is a deeply impressive machine that proves electrification can enhance rather than diminish the supercar experience. It’s faster, more efficient, and more usable than the V8 models it replaces, whilst maintaining the emotional connection Ferrari owners expect.

The £40,000 premium over the GTB is substantial, but if open-air driving matters to you, the 296 GTS delivers the complete Ferrari experience without meaningful performance compromise. For UK buyers, the retractable hardtop provides year-round usability that a pure open spider couldn’t match.

At £245,000-£320,000 depending on specification, it’s eye-wateringly expensive. But compared to rivals, it represents fair value in the rarefied world of 800+ PS mid-engined convertibles.

If you’ve dreamed of owning a Ferrari and can afford the entry price, the 296 GTS delivers an ownership experience that justifies the investment. It’s fast enough to thrill experienced drivers, accessible enough for relative novices, and spectacular enough to turn heads at every traffic light.

The hybrid V6 won’t satisfy purists who demand a naturally aspirated V12, but it represents Ferrari’s future—a future that looks, sounds, and drives better than many feared.

Rating: 9/10

FAQs About Ferrari 269 GTS

If you are interested in the Ferrari 296 GTS, we gathered the most frequently asked questions about this car model to help you learn more about it.