Ferrari 296 FERRARI | 296GTS ASSETTO FIORANO | FULL CARBON FIBER INSIDE OUTSIDE

Highlights

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

Summary

This specific Ferrari 296 GTS offers a compelling entry into the future of Italian performance, combining extreme hybrid power with the versatility of an open-top experience. With mileage significantly lower than the GCC annual average for high-end exotics, this vehicle is barely past its break-in period and presents in near-showroom condition. The Burgundy exterior is a sophisticated choice for the region, offering a deeper, more exclusive profile that holds its value well among local collectors looking for something more unique than standard racing red. As a 2024 model, it benefits from the latest refinements in Ferrari’s PHEV software and battery management, ensuring seamless transitions between silent electric cruising and high-revving internal combustion. It stands out from rivals by offering a shorter wheelbase and more agile handling dynamics, making it as rewarding on the twisting roads of Jebel Jais as it is on the boulevards of Dubai. For a buyer in the GCC, the most important consideration is the balance of a European specification with the car's advanced cooling systems, which are designed to maintain peak performance even in our demanding summer temperatures.

This Car vs Other 2024 296s

When comparing this Ferrari 296 GTS to other 2024 examples available in the UAE and wider GCC, the primary advantage is the exceptionally low mileage. While typical weekend cars in this segment might see 3,000 to 5,000 km in their first year, this example has been driven sparingly, ensuring that mechanical wear is negligible and the interior remains pristine. The Burgundy exterior color is a significant differentiator; while many 2024 models on the market are finished in traditional colors, this shade adds a layer of bespoke luxury that appeals to seasoned collectors in the region. European specification cars like this one often find their way into the GCC market due to high demand and early allocation, and they are highly sought after for their specific factory configurations. This vehicle represents a chance to skip the extensive waiting lists typically associated with new Ferrari orders in the Middle East. The overall condition reflects a car that has been maintained in a climate-controlled environment, which is vital for preserving the delicate electronics and hybrid components found in modern 2024 supercars.

GTS vs Lower Trims

Choosing the GTS trim over the standard GTB coupe introduces the Retractable Hard Top (RHT) which completely transforms the ownership experience in the GCC. This system allows the driver to enjoy open-air motoring during the cooler winter months while providing the acoustic insulation and thermal protection of a coupe during the searing summer heat. Beyond the roof, the GTS features specific aerodynamic styling at the rear to manage airflow when the top is down, ensuring cabin turbulence is kept to a minimum even at high speeds. Inside, the trim levels are elevated with driver-centric cockpits that emphasize Ferrari's transition to a fully digital interface, including a dedicated passenger-side display that is often omitted in more basic configurations. This trim also standardizes more of the performance-oriented hardware, such as the sophisticated Side Slip Control (SSC) system which is tuned specifically for the weight distribution of the open-top model. In the GCC market, the GTS variant historically commands a higher resale premium than the fixed-roof coupe, as local buyers place a high value on the versatility of a convertible that does not sacrifice performance.

296 vs Segment Rivals

The Ferrari 296 stands in a league of its own when compared to rivals like the McLaren Artura or the Lamborghini Huracán Tecnica. While the McLaren also utilizes a V6 hybrid setup, the Ferrari offers a significantly higher power output at 830 hp, giving it a clear advantage in straight-line acceleration and highway overtaking. Compared to the naturally aspirated Lamborghini, the 296 provides a much more modern driving experience with its silent EV start-up mode, which is ideal for early morning departures in quiet residential communities across the GCC. The packaging of the V6 'Piccolo icona' engine allows for a shorter wheelbase than its competitors, resulting in superior agility and a more playful handling character on technical roads. Ferrari's integration of the hybrid motor between the engine and the gearbox ensures that power delivery is instantaneous, filling the gaps in torque that traditional turbocharged rivals might suffer from. Furthermore, the Ferrari brand prestige and the established service network in key cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Riyadh give it a distinct advantage in long-term peace of mind compared to smaller boutique manufacturers.

Running Costs & Resale

As a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), the 296 GTS offers surprisingly manageable running costs for a supercar of this caliber, especially during city commutes where the electric motor handles low-speed traffic. Real-world fuel consumption is significantly lower than previous V8 generations, though owners should still expect a high demand for premium 98-octane fuel during spirited driving. Maintenance follows Ferrari's rigorous schedule, typically requiring a visit to an authorized service center every 20,000 km or annually; fortunately, well-established service networks like Al Tayer Motors in the UAE and Fast Auto Technic in Saudi Arabia provide world-class support. Being a European spec car, it is important to verify local warranty extensions, though the global nature of Ferrari's Genuine Maintenance program often assists with international coverage. Historically, mid-engine Ferrari models with low mileage hold their value exceptionally well in the GCC, with the 296 currently showing one of the lowest depreciation rates in the supercar segment. At the three-year mark, this model is expected to retain a much higher percentage of its original MSRP than its direct European competitors, making it a sound financial choice for an exotic car enthusiast.

Performance & Capability

The headline figure for this machine is 830 hp, delivered through a sophisticated 3.0L V6 twin-turbo engine coupled with a rear-mounted electric motor. This allows for a 0-100 km/h sprint in a blistering 2.9 seconds, a figure that places it in the top tier of performance vehicles globally. The top speed exceeds 330 km/h, a capability that can be safely explored during track events at the Dubai Autodrome or Yas Marina Circuit. The transition between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor is managed by the Transition Manager Actuator, providing a seamless surge of power that feels like a large-capacity naturally aspirated engine. Despite being rear-wheel drive, the car utilizes advanced e-Diff and ABS Evo technologies to ensure maximum traction on the varying road surfaces found across the GCC. The inclusion of multiple drive modes, including 'eDrive' for pure electric range and 'Qualify' for maximum performance, allows the driver to tailor the car's personality to the situation. Whether you are cruising through high-speed highway interchanges or navigating tight urban corners, the 296 GTS remains composed and incredibly fast.

Comfort & Cabin

The cabin of the 296 GTS is a masterclass in modern digital design, focusing entirely on the driver while maintaining a 2-seat layout that feels spacious for an exotic. Ferrari has paid close attention to the climate control system, ensuring that the air conditioning is more than capable of handling 45°C+ summer days even when the thermal load is high. The seats are designed to provide support during high-G cornering while remaining comfortable enough for long-distance drives between emirates. High-quality materials like Alcantara and premium leather are used throughout, providing a tactile sense of luxury that matches the car's performance. The digital dashboard integrates all vital information into a single high-resolution screen, while the haptic controls on the steering wheel allow the driver to keep their eyes on the road. The sound insulation with the hardtop closed is comparable to a fixed-roof coupe, effectively blocking out highway wind noise. This specific interior environment is crafted to offer a serene escape from the heat and bustle of GCC city life, providing a cocoon of technology and high-end finish.

Safety

Safety in the 296 GTS is governed by some of the most advanced electronic stability systems ever fitted to a road car. The ABS Evo system is a standout, allowing for shorter braking distances and more stable deceleration from high speeds by integrating with the car's dynamic sensors. Blind-spot monitoring and high-definition parking cameras are essential features that make navigating the dense, fast-moving traffic on highways like E11 much safer. The chassis is constructed from advanced alloys and carbon fiber, providing a rigid safety cell for both occupants in the event of an impact. Traction control is finely tuned to handle the sudden torque of the electric motor, preventing wheelspin on sand-dusted road surfaces common in the region. Active aerodynamics also play a role in safety, increasing downforce at high speeds to ensure the car remain planted and predictable. Unlike many of its rivals, Ferrari integrates these safety systems so they enhance the driving experience rather than detracting from it.

The bottom line

This 2024 Ferrari 296 GTS is the ideal acquisition for the GCC enthusiast who demands the latest hybrid technology in a high-retention, low-mileage package. With its rare Burgundy finish and convertible versatility, it represents one of the most sophisticated performance opportunities currently available in the regional used market.

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