2026 Ferrari 296 Speciale Aperta Review: A Supercar That Would Make Enzo Proud

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      Unrivaled driving experience. The 2026 Ferrari 296 Speciale Aperta offers astonishing speed and a distinctive character, making it a highlight in Ferrari’s collection.

      Lightweight yet powerful. With 869 hp and a weight saving of 132 pounds compared to the GTB, this supercar is designed for explosive performance on the track.

      Advanced aerodynamics. Features such as dual rear winglets and a large diffuser improve downforce and stability at high velocities.

      Outstanding handling and braking. The vehicle's precise steering and exceptional braking system provide an exhilarating driving experience.

      In summary: The 2026 Ferrari 296 Speciale Aperta captures the essence of a genuine Italian supercar, delivering an exhilarating mix of speed, power, and precision.

      AI-assisted, editor-reviewed

      While many were busy lamenting the Luce's existence or the Testarossa's styling, I was navigating the hills surrounding Maranello in what is undoubtedly the best-driving cavallino available right now: the 2026 Ferrari 296 Speciale Aperta. During my drive, I couldn't help but reflect on how shortsighted all that criticism was. If I were a multi-millionaire, not only would I buy the very model I was driving, but I'd also purchase the entire Ferrari lineup, as each model possesses a unique character and something distinct to offer. The 296 Speciale Aperta, in particular, delivers an unrelenting, mind-boggling speed.

      The Speciale designation is quite prestigious, with the 296’s predecessors including the 360 Challenge Stradale and the remarkable 430 Scuderia, which remains one of the finest cars I’ve ever driven. Then there were the 458 Speciale and 488 Pista, which I haven’t experienced. The formula for these exceptional models is relatively simple: reduce weight, increase power, and enhance aerodynamics, all while focusing on ensuring that this performance can theoretically be utilized on the track, even if that’s not always the reality.

      Now that I’ve introduced the Speciale aspect, let’s discuss the Aperta. Translating to “uncovered” in Italian, this term has graced only the most exclusive convertible Ferraris, such as the LaFerrari Aperta, 458 Speciale Aperta, and the incredibly rare 599-based SA Aperta. Now, the 296 joins this elite group and does so with a striking combination of intensity and elegance.

      The Basics

      It's worth noting that the standard model here is the rear-mid-engine 296 Spider, significantly enhanced in the Speciale version. It boasts a power-folding hard top that opens or closes in just 14 seconds at speeds of up to 30 mph, much like the Testarossa Spider I drove recently. Behind the driver’s seat is a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 supported by an axial-flux electric motor positioned between the engine and an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The internal combustion engine produces 691 horsepower with a slight boost of 3 psi, while the electric motor contributes an additional 178 horsepower, culminating in an impressive 869 hp and 557 lb-ft of torque, all directed to the rear wheels on 305/35 ZR20 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires (245/35 fronts).

      A rigorous weight reduction is a core principle of the Speciale's design; Ferrari has replaced or removed several components to trim 132 pounds from its standard counterpart. The engine alone sheds 20 pounds, thanks to considerable modifications, including a new crankshaft that is nearly five pounds lighter. Additionally, titanium pistons and connecting rods sourced from the ultra-exclusive, multi-million-dollar F80 hypercar are utilized.

      Aerodynamics have been heavily revised, evident from the car's exterior. It features dual rear winglets at each corner, along with an active flap between them that extends automatically when maximum downforce is needed. I only observed it deploy to its upright position once during heavy braking. Compared to the dual flaps on the back of the 12Cilindri Spider I road-tripped in earlier this year, it’s significantly less active. Below is an enormous carbon fiber diffuser that, especially in my tester’s striking Rosso Dino finish, stands out dramatically from the rest of the vehicle. It’s impressively large and very conspicuous, which is precisely what one would expect from such an aggressive car.

      Up front, there’s a new nose design with revamped ducting that allows for more efficient air flow, generating additional downforce, minimizing turbulence, and enhancing cooling. Similar changes can be seen around the front fenders, where new ducts combat pressure that could lead to front-end lift or instability at high speeds. Overall, the 296 Speciale Aperta achieves 960 pounds of downforce at 155 mph, a substantial increase from