Ferrari 296 GTB

Highlights

• 0–100 km/h in under 4 seconds
• Hand-built engine
• Lowest running cost in class

Summary

This 2023 Ferrari 296 GTB represents a remarkable opportunity to own the future of Italian performance with exceptionally low mileage that is far below the GCC average for a one-year-old supercar. As a GCC-spec vehicle, it offers the full peace of mind regarding warranty and cooling systems specifically engineered for the Middle Eastern climate. The striking Blue exterior provides a sophisticated alternative to the common red, often holding its value well among collectors who seek unique but tasteful configurations. With its 830 hp plug-in hybrid powertrain, this car stands out from traditional rivals by offering silent city driving alongside blistering track performance. For the GCC buyer, this specific listing is a standout choice because it has barely completed its break-in period and remains in near-showroom condition. Ownership of a PHEV Ferrari in the region is increasingly practical as infrastructure expands and buyers prioritize the versatility of electric-only modes for local urban commutes.

This Car vs Other 2023 296s

With only 3000 km on the odometer, this vehicle is effectively brand new compared to other 2023 models in the UAE and wider GCC, where high-performance cars often see more frequent use on well-paved highway networks. Typical annual mileage for exotic cars in this region can reach 5,000 to 7,000 km as owners enjoy weekend drives between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, making this low-mileage example highly desirable for collectors. The Blue exterior is a premium choice that differentiates it from the high volume of Rosso Corsa examples currently on the market, potentially aiding long-term resale value for those looking for a specific aesthetic. Being a GCC-spec car, it includes the necessary tropicalized cooling and filtration systems required to maintain peak performance during the extreme summer months. This car has been meticulously maintained and represents one of the freshest examples of the 296 GTB available in the secondary market today.

GTB vs Lower Trims

The GTB serves as the pinnacle of Ferrari's new V6 hybrid era, offering a fixed-roof coupe silhouette that many enthusiasts prefer for its structural rigidity and purist lines compared to the GTS convertible. This trim includes the full integration of the 830 hp hybrid system, which features a sophisticated MGU-K energy recovery system derived from Formula 1 technology. While lower-tier mid-engine models of the past relied solely on internal combustion, the GTB adds the high-voltage battery and electric motor, allowing for an eDrive mode that is perfect for navigating quiet residential areas in the early morning. Inside, the GTB features a fully digital interface and a passenger-side display that are often optional or less advanced in older Ferrari generations. The focus on this trim is a perfect balance of daily usability and extreme track capability, making it a more versatile asset than the track-focused Special Series models.

296 vs Segment Rivals

The 296 GTB competes directly with the McLaren Artura and the Lamborghini Huracan Tecnica, yet it leads the segment with a staggering 830 hp, which is significantly higher than its primary British and Italian rivals. For the GCC driver, the Ferrari offers a more integrated and user-friendly infotainment experience compared to the McLaren, and a more futuristic cabin than the aging naturally aspirated Lamborghini. The plug-in hybrid capability allows for short-range electric cruising, a feature the Huracan lacks entirely, providing a dual personality that is highly valued in modern Middle Eastern cities. Furthermore, Ferrari's service network in the UAE and Saudi Arabia is exceptionally robust, offering a level of logistical support and parts availability that smaller boutique brands struggle to match. The 296 also features a more compact wheelbase than many rivals, resulting in agility that is immediately noticeable on the winding roads of Jebel Jais or the technical sections of Dubai Autodrome.

Running Costs & Resale

Despite its immense power, the 296 GTB offers the lowest running costs in its class thanks to its PHEV architecture, which allows for significantly reduced fuel consumption during city driving and idling in heavy traffic. Real-world fuel economy is surprisingly efficient when the hybrid system is utilized correctly, though highway fuel consumption remains typical for a high-performance 3L engine when the battery is depleted. Ferrari's 7-year genuine maintenance program is a massive benefit for GCC owners, covering regular service intervals at authorized centers in all major cities including Riyadh, Kuwait City, and Doha. Historically, mid-engine Ferrari V6 and V8 models hold their value better than almost any other supercar brand, with depreciation typically hovering around 10-12% annually in the first few years, which is superior to most European competitors. This specific car, with its GCC specifications and low mileage, is positioned to sit at the top of the resale curve after three years of ownership. Fuel requirements are strictly 98 octane or higher, which is readily available across all ADNOC and ENOC stations.

Performance & Capability

The performance of the 296 GTB is defined by its 0-100 km/h time of just 2.9 seconds, placing it in the elite tier of modern supercars. The 120-degree V6 engine, nicknamed the 'piccolo dodici' or little V12, produces a high-frequency exhaust note that is specifically tuned to resonate beautifully even through the strict sound regulations of modern tracks. With a top speed exceeding 330 km/h, this car is perfectly suited for the long, open stretches of highway that connect the emirates. The rear-wheel-drive layout is managed by an advanced Side Slip Control (SSC) system, which makes the 830 hp accessible even to drivers who aren't professional racers. The transition between the electric motor and the twin-turbo engine is seamless, providing instant torque fill that eliminates any sensation of turbo lag. For the GCC owner, this means effortless overtaking power and a car that feels alive at any speed, whether cruising the Corniche or pushing limits at a private track event.

Comfort & Cabin

Inside the 296 GTB, the cabin is a masterclass in driver-centric design, featuring two high-performance seats upholstered in premium materials that provide excellent support during spirited driving. The air conditioning system is exceptionally powerful, a critical requirement for the GCC, ensuring the cabin remains chilled even when outside temperatures exceed 45 degrees Celsius. The absence of a traditional central screen is compensated by a massive digital instrument cluster that puts all navigation and media information directly in the driver's line of sight. Cabin insulation has been improved over previous generations, making long-distance drives between cities much more comfortable by reducing road and wind noise. The haptic controls on the steering wheel allow the driver to manage almost every function without taking their hands off the wheel, including the eManettino for drive mode selection. Despite being a focused supercar, the cabin offers enough storage for small personal items, making it surprisingly practical for a weekend getaway.

Safety

Safety in the 296 GTB is handled by an array of cutting-edge electronic systems designed to keep the car stable in all conditions, including the occasional sand-blown highway or sudden rain shower. Standard equipment includes high-performance carbon-ceramic brakes that offer incredible stopping power and fade resistance, essential for high-speed driving in hot climates. The car features advanced traction and stability control systems that have been calibrated to work in harmony with the hybrid powertrain's instant torque delivery. Blind-spot monitoring and high-resolution cameras assist with visibility, which is a major advantage when navigating the dense, fast-moving traffic of Sheikh Zayed Road. Ferrari has also integrated a sophisticated ABS Evo system that allows for shorter braking distances and better turn-in under braking. These active safety features, combined with a rigid chassis and multiple airbags, ensure that the 296 GTB provides a secure environment for both driver and passenger.

The bottom line

This GCC-spec Ferrari 296 GTB is the perfect acquisition for a buyer who wants the latest in hybrid technology with the soul of a traditional Italian supercar. With only 3000 km, it offers a significant 'as-new' advantage and remains one of the most technologically advanced vehicles on the road today.

AI insights generated from market expert data. Always inspect the vehicle before purchase.