The Prancing Horse’s commitment to the future

The 296 GT3 is an innovative project, on and off the track, which Ferrari decided to expand to continue the winning tradition that has its roots in 1949, when the 166 MM won the 24 Hours of Le Mans. A new approach from the design point of view, from the management of the car in all phases of a race weekend, from the electronics, to the new architecture of the engine, a 6-cylinder turbo at 120º. A unique concept, created around the needs of teams, professional drivers and gentlemen drivers, historically at the heart of the company. A car meticulously studied in every detailfrom all points of view, according to the precepts of the new GT3 regulations.

The gearbox of the 296 GT3 is new and specially developed for this car. The designers opted for a transversely arranged six-speed single-disc clutch for better aerodynamics and better weight distribution. Clutch actuation is now electronic and can be controlled from the steering wheel, rather than mechanically via the pedal, while the gear change is electrically operated. the miniaturization of components and the use of high-end materials have made it possible to reduce the weight of the Xtrac gearbox, to the benefit of performance.

Exterior and aerodynamics

Ferrari’s future in GT racing has a curvy shape, wrapping around the volumes of the 296 GTB, redefining them to meet the demands of the track and performance through teamwork between Centro Stile, aerodynamicists and designers. This is why the design of the car, stripped of any aerodynamic device or characteristic specific to the racing version, has retained its link with the production model. The design of the latter already refers to vehicles like the 250 LM of 1963, a perfect combination of simplicity and functionality.

Ferrari engineers were able to set an aero setup within the homologation performance window by reducing ride height sensitivities in an effort to improve handling and handling. This precise and meticulous work on the shapes has resulted in a 20% gain in downforce on the car compared to the previous generation. From this point of view, the 296 GT3 lives in symbiosis with the air which surrounds it, exploiting it to maximize grip and handling, for the benefit of gentlemen drivers as well as professionals.

The designers’ challenge was to limit the car’s sensitivity to the forces generated by aerodynamics, to deliver extraordinary balance for the benefit of handling and driver confidence. The geometry of all components, from the bodywork to the wing appendages, has been designed in detail under different operating conditions and in mutual aerodynamic interaction to optimize performance and make it robust in different racing contexts, also in the wake other cars. . From the front splitter to the rear extractor, which features a diffuser with a sophisticated three-dimensional design, the 296 GT3 is distinguished by a refined design that aims to obtain as little drag as possible.

redesigned cabin

Intuition, visibility and accessibility are essential for the design of the cabin without neglecting essential aspects such as safety and comfort. In endurance, performance depends on these characteristics, especially for gentlemen drivers.

Indeed, this interior allows its occupant to quickly and efficiently find the best driving position, with the main functions always within easy reach. Many controls and features have been carried over from Formula 1, such as the single-seater inspired steering wheel, while the Sabelt seating position offers optimum visibility, day or night. It also adds a new level of comfort for drivers of different heights and sizes who can use the adjustable pedals and steering to find their best position in the car.

Additionally, the airflow and system inside the cabin has been designed to provide adequate ventilation in all conditions, helping the rider to concentrate through every stage of a race.