Car of the Year
Ferrari 296 GTB
6 wins in 25 years, it is
clear that I am a bit biased towards Maranello. However, when its cars
are so good, why not?
I did not pick the SF90 because its 3-motor setup is probably too
powerful and complicated for purists, but the 296 GTB has no such
problems. Its electric power goes to the rear wheels only, so its
steering is uncorrupted, and its chassis balance feels just as natural
as traditional Ferrari mid-engined cars. The extra weight over its
predecessor is 140 kg, but you won't feel it. Instead, it feels
amazingly agile, thanks in part to a shorter wheelbase made possible by
switching to V6 power.
Losing 2 cylinders might sound bad, but Ferrari managed to squeeze out
663 horsepower - or 830 hp with electric motor added - yet it revs and
sings like a small V12. The addition of hybrid power just irons out the
weaknesses of turbocharged engine and enhances the good old formula,
making it faster, more exciting and more absorbent. This car is nothing
short of amazing.
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