A hardcore road-legal Ferrari race car is on the way
What's the story
A camouflaged prototype of Ferrari's upcoming hardcore special edition has been spotted on public roads. The vehicle, which looks like a race car for the road, is believed to be an updated version of the 296 Challenge launched in late 2023. The sighting has raised questions about why Ferrari would test a race car on public roads with a license plate.
Elements
The prototype features polycarbonate side windows
The spotted prototype comes with polycarbonate side windows, a feature that would differentiate it from regular glass models. It also has a standard interior instead of the stripped-out cabin of track-only racers. The vehicle's wheels are different from those seen on the Challenge model, it carries front parking sensors and lacks quick-release hood latches.
Design modifications
It has a new front bumper and massive rear wing
The prototype features a new front bumper, unlike anything seen on the GTB, Speciale, or Challenge models. Its rear design is more in line with the race cars than street-legal 296 models. Despite being heavily camouflaged, the vehicle's massive rear wing is a clear giveaway of its race car origins.
Performance specs
It could ditch hybrid components for a pure V6 setup
If this is indeed a 296 Challenge Stradale, it will be more enthusiast-focused than last year's Speciale. The road-legal model could ditch hybrid components for a pure V6 setup to shed extra weight. The race-specific version of the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine produces 690hp/740Nm.
Market expectations
Challenge Stradale would be even rarer than Speciale
If this is a 296 Challenge Stradale, the price could easily exceed $500,000. The base model of the 296 Speciale already begins at $475,364 in the US. While Ferrari has not revealed production numbers for the Speciale, it's safe to assume that a Challenge Stradale shall be even rarer due to its added exclusivity.