Ferrari 296 Speciale - Vehicle Dynamics

In Ferrari, the concept of driving emotions, at the core of the development of the 296 Speciale, is translated following five objectified parameters: lateral, longitudinal, gear change, braking, and sound. Lateral refers to the steering response - feeling of readiness and rear support - associated with the ease of driving at the limit. Longitudinal is characterized by the throttle response and the growth of longitudinal acceleration as the engine speed varies. Gear change is measured through the feedback returned to the driver at each gear change (shift times, sense of progression provided by the gear change). Braking is distinguished by the feeling of the brake pedal command such as travel and response, concepts that translate into efficiency and modulability of the braking action. Sound is finally perceived as the level coupled with the quality and progressiveness of the sound in the cabin as the engine speed increases. To increase the performance of the 296 Speciale compared to the base vehicle in all these parameters, weight reduction has been one of the top development priorities. Ferrari engineers have used all their competition know-how to introduce lightweight solutions and materials such as titanium and carbon fiber (including, for example, the possibility of configuring one's own 296 Speciale with bumpers and engine hood in this material) to reduce the weight of the 296 Speciale by over 60 kg compared to the 296 GTB, with a clearly noticeable effect on agility and responsiveness. Mass containment has affected both the engine and the bodywork and interiors.