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Ferrari, the renowned Italian automaker, has introduced the 296 Challenge, a track-only edition derived from the 296 GTB and this extraordinary car marks a departure from the hybrid system, emphasizing a purebred petrol V6 engine with a staggering 700hp. The grand reveal took place at the 2023 Ferrari Finali event. The 296 Challenge is a member of a fleet of automobiles created specifically for the Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli a customer-only championship race. Notably, it stands as the first six-cylinder car to join this prestigious series, succeeding the V8-powered 488 Challenge.
Weight Reduction and Superior Performance
The removal of the hybrid system sheds an impressive 149kg from the 296 Challenge. This weight loss contributes to exceptional performance allowing it to outpace the 488 Challenge by two seconds on the Mugello track and the car generates a remarkable 870kg of downforce at a speed of 249kph.
Powertrain and Weight
The 296 Challenge deviates from the 296's electrified powertrain and it is powered by a race-tuned 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine instead of the normal one. This engine configuration, the first V6 used in a Ferrari race car outside of Formula 1, marks a considerable change from the usual Ferrari powertrains and it dates back to the 1960s. The 296 Challenge smashed the previous power record for the Ferrari racing series with a total output of 700 horsepower. The torque is rated at an impressive 739Nm. The removal of the hybrid system results in a weight reduction of 140kg, with the 296 Challenge weighing 1,330kg. Carbon fiber usage further contributes to the weight reduction.
A Tribute to Racing History
Continuing the heritage of classic racing vehicles such as the F355 Challenge, F430 Challenge, and 488 Challenge, the specs of the 296 Challenge are very similar to those of the 296 GT3, which made its debut at the 24 Hours of Daytona in early 2023.
Aerodynamic Excellence
Aerodynamics play a pivotal role in the 296 Challenge's design. In order to produce incredible downforce values that represent a breakthrough in Ferrari's racing series, the engineering team gave aerodynamics first priority. A carbon fiber, body-width rear spoiler that extends higher than the roofline is at the heart of these aerodynamic improvements. The car generates an astonishing 870kg of downforce at 249.4 kph when the spoiler is extended to its most aggressive angle. For comparison, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS generates 860kg of downforce at a higher speed of 285kph. This newfound aerodynamic prowess translates to an 18% increase in downforce compared to its predecessor, the 488 Evo Challenge. Notably, the 296 Challenge laps the Mugello track a remarkable two seconds faster. While its top speed may be slower than the preceding 488 Evo Challenge, Ferrari compensates for this by enhancing its cornering capabilities.
Braking System
The stopping power of the 296 Challenge is derived from a braking system known as ABS EVO Track and this system represents an adaptation and improvement over the road-going 296's brakes. It incorporates carbon-ceramic discs specially developed by Brembo for the racing market and these discs are chosen for their durability and resistance to wear. Ferrari proudly claims that these discs outlast the 488 Evo Challenge by a factor of three, while the pads themselves endure twice as long.
Precision and Accessibility
The overall dynamics and on-track behavior of the 296 Challenge have been meticulously engineered to provide exceptional rear-end precision and this focus on precision enhances the accessibility of the car which makes it more manageable for the customers who will have the privilege of owning it.
Conclusion
The Ferrari 296 Challenge is a remarkable track-only machine that pushes the boundaries of performance and aerodynamics while paying homage to Ferrari's rich racing heritage.