Ferrari, the Italian manufacturer of supercars, first previewed its newest GT3 contender back in March. It has since unveiled a complete image of the 296 GT3.
Starting in 2023, the new racecar from the Prancing Horse will replace the current 488 GT3 and switch from the current V8 engine to a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 that can produce 600 horsepower and 524 pound-feet of torque.
It is based on the road-going 296 GTB model. Ferrari had to remove the motor portion of the original hybrid powertrain in order to comply with racing regulations, but it was still able to maintain the majority of its performance, losing only 43 horsepower in comparison to the GTB model.
The new 296 GT3 positions the engine lower and further forward to improve reliability and driveability in 24-hour races. It also pairs the engine with a custom, six-speed single-clutch Xtrac gearbox with electric clutch actuation to make driving easier for the driver. The car’s new aerodynamic components also increase its downforce by 20%, allowing it to corner more forcefully. Ferrari asserts that driving in slipstream will improve performance.
The new Ferrari 296 GT3 will make its debut next year at the Daytona 24 Hours.
