Great test from Harry (if you are unfamiliar, Harry Metcalfe is the founder of EVO Magazine in the UK): Colors are def not what I would have spec’d, but amazing car and a great review. Sounds great too.
He didn’t care for either SF 90, but loved the 296. Regular version would have been an even better test. Sent from my iPhone using FerrariChat.com mobile app
W/O AF it's quite soft, so I'm driving in race mode most of the time for the stiffer suspension. In regular or bumpy mode its more of a GT feeling. The AF suspension is far from uncomfortable or too hard. I was very surprised how goof AF drives on regular roads. It's sporty but manages to not give you any hard slaps from bumps in the road. On the track, the two setups are worlds apart. Not comparable like two entirely different cars.
I've driven both non-AF and AF on track, but not enough to be able to distinguish them with certainty. I'm speccing a 296 GTB and I'm second-guessing myself a lot right now. Can't decide on going with AF or not. How much you have you driven the two specs, and what would you go for in a car that's mostly a road car, but tracks maybe 3-5 times a year?
For me it's all about what the 296 is intended to be and my use case. I'm buying as a 60% sports car 40% GT. I think it'll be great on trips. I think it will be quite comfortable and usable and it will be fun and very fast when I want to play. I'll likely only take to a track 2-3 times in it's entirely life with me. I have other cars more hardcore oriented. I wouldn't dream of spec'ing the AF pack on the 296.
I didn’t drive it on track but on the road while the non AF is indeed very settled and compliant, that does not mean it has a lot of body roll or no grip. Quite the opposite, it’s very capable and you can drive it very confidently. And for 3-5 track days a year, that’s like what, 5-10% of your total use? I don’t think it’s sensible to compromise your 90% use case for what could be called an “outlier”.
I agree. Wait for the VS for the hardcore track version. But, if you don’t want the VS, then AF. I bought the GTS, so it’s already compromised. It’s a sports and GT car for me. I have a track focused GT3 for track battle. Sent from my iPhone using FerrariChat.com mobile app
Really enjoyed the review. The car sounded great. I echo his opinion about the haptic controls though, it's not something I like or think I'll ever really like. The car sounds really, really good. I'd prefer this over the SF90...the pathetic boot space that has would render it pretty pointless quickly.
Test drove the car again today and I have to say I agree on the haptics. At this point I’ve driven it for probably 100km and they still feel clunky. I used to not like my 812 controls but now I’m just thankful for buttons. But you know what? The only controls that really matter are the Manettino, eManettino and manual/auto select, and those I can adjust just fine. The rest is just fluff.
One thing I forgot to add as a dislike is the star trekky ''woosh'' audio noise when this or the SF90 goes into electric drive (I think that's when it is). But all in, 2 minor things all things considered!
My concern is how the haptic controls will "age"--I prefer buttons. and switchgear like an airplane. Too much video game type technology installed these days for my taste.
When they break, you KNOW it will be $$$$. Exactly what I say about all the Mercedes and Audi screens: $3-5k liabilities everywhere. I replaced two Audi instrument clusters for failing LED lights, and that was $1700-2200 each I can believe the screens and touchpads are going to be terrible (unless miraculously they are actually modular and easily removable).
my experience comparing both on track is that there is meaningful difference in the bodyroll and overall car stability from 8/10 pushing out of corners and through fast corners...otherwise haven't felt the difference..as others commented, would prioritise practicality, part. also if you need a lifter
Ok, thanks for the feedback! I am leaning towards going without it, but it hurts me a little bit to give up that tightness.
I think it depends on where you are based. British B roads are not well paved and British journalists have a tendency to prefer more compliant setups, especially Harry.
If you think thats expensive wait until you need to replace the battery pack, which have a limited shelf life.
yeah it’s going to be a shame mine will have to be replaced at 6 years and 11 months. What a coincidence!
Looks like Chris Harris is absolutely driving the wheels off this 296! I can’t wait for the full episode! May the Horse be with you
