Ferrari prepares an even more extreme 296 Challenge Stradale
It hasn’t been a year since Ferrari unveiled the sharper track-focused version of the 296 — the Speciale. Now rumors have emerged that development of an even harder variant is already underway. It may even abandon the hybrid system in favor of a more classic driving experience.
During the first half of this year, camouflaged prototypes of a new 296 version were spotted repeatedly near Ferrari’s headquarters in Maranello. Like the track-only 296 Challenge that competes in Ferrari’s one-make race series, these cars featured a fairly aggressive aerodynamic body kit.
Ferrari appears to be preparing one of the wildest V6 supercars in its modern history. According to The Supercar Blog, the new model will be called the 296 Challenge Stradale. As with the 296 Speciale, production of this model will not be limited to a pre-set number of units. The car is expected to develop the ideas of the track-focused Challenge: a distinctive front end, a massive rear wing and other aerodynamic elements. It is reported that the sole source of power will be exclusively the twin-turbo V6, without any hybrid components.
Engine: no hybrid, but more output
The standard 296 GTB and GTS, as well as the Speciale version, use a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 together with an electric motor located on the rear axle. In the Speciale, the engine alone produces 690 hp, while the hybrid system, including a 7.45 kWh battery, raises total output to 868 hp.
Ferrari dropped the heavy hybrid system in the track-only 296 Challenge. According to rumors, the same will be done for the road-going version. The V6’s power could be increased from 690 hp to 720 hp. At the same time, the car’s dry weight would likely be only 2,866 pounds (1,300 kg), about 375 pounds (170 kg) less than the standard road version. If these figures are confirmed, the power-to-weight ratio would be about 0.251 hp per pound — almost identical to that of the regular model (0.252 hp/lb).
Track potential and possible debut date
The additional aerodynamic package will definitely make this version of the 296 even faster on the racetrack. Therefore, the new model could become an ideal option for Ferrari enthusiasts seeking the most extreme yet road-legal track car. According to preliminary data, the model’s debut could take place as early as November.
Source: The Supercar Blog
If these plans do come to fruition, the 296 Challenge Stradale will be an interesting compromise between modern technology and the classic philosophy of lightweight supercars. Dropping the hybrid may somewhat reduce total output compared with the Speciale, but lower weight and sharper handling often matter more than just a large number of horsepower on paper. For Ferrari, this is another step toward pure driving enjoyment, without excessive electrification.