Redefining the Open-Air Thrill: Ferrari 296 Speciale A Makes Exclusive Indian Debut
The roar of Italian engineering met the regal landscapes of India as Select Cars, Officially associated with Ferrari in New Delhi, hosted an exclusive private preview of the Ferrari 296 Speciale A. This invitation-only event, held on 23 January 2026, offered a privileged circle of Indian Ferraristi a first look at the latest masterpiece in Ferrari’s prestigious lineage of special-series spiders.
A New Benchmark for the Indian Ferraristi
The Ferrari 296 Speciale A arrives as a mid-rear engined plug-in hybrid spider, meticulously engineered to serve as the new benchmark for top-down driving thrills. It joins an ultra-exclusive dynasty that includes the Scuderia Spider 16M, the 458 Speciale A, and the 488 Pista Spider.
The “A” in its name—standing for Aperta—signifies the addition of a Retractable Hardtop (RHT). This feature allows drivers to transition between a sleek coupé profile and an open-air experience in just 14 seconds, all while maintaining the agile handling and stability that define the 296 range.
Performance That Defies Logic
For the supercar enthusiast who demands unrivalled performance, the 296 Speciale A delivers a visceral driving experience through its evolved powertrain:
- Hybrid Powerhouse: The car features a 120-degree V6 twin-turbo engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 880 cv.
- Blistering Speed: It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 2.8 seconds and can reach a top speed exceeding 330 km/h.
- Aerodynamic Mastery: By incorporating solutions from the 296 Challenge, the Speciale A generates 435 kg of downforce at 250 km/h—a 20% increase over the standard 296 GTS.
- Weight Reduction: Extensive use of carbon fiber and titanium components has reduced the vehicle’s weight by approximately 60 kg compared to the standard model.
“The 296 Speciale A represents the new pinnacle for this model type, dedicated to owners in search of that special feeling of being at the wheel of a car with extraordinary performance.”
A Decade of Passion: The Ferrari Tour of Rajasthan
The private preview was a cornerstone of Select Cars’ 10-year anniversary milestone celebrations. This landmark occasion was celebrated during the Ferrari Tour of Rajasthan, a five-day journey through the state’s royal heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
The tour provided more than just a glimpse of the 296 Speciale A. Participating guests also had the opportunity to test drive the Ferrari 12Cilindri and the 296 GTB, experiencing the distinct thrills of Ferrari’s diverse lineup against the backdrop of India’s most majestic forts and palaces.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes the Ferrari 296 Speciale A different from the 296 GTS? The 296 Speciale A is a performance-focused evolution, featuring an additional 50 cv of power (totaling 880 cv), a 60 kg weight reduction, and 20% more downforce. It also introduces a more aggressive aerodynamic profile inspired by Ferrari’s racing division.
When will the 296 Speciale A be available in India? Following its exclusive preview in January 2026, the car is set to be launched in the Indian market soon.
Can the 296 Speciale A be driven in electric mode? Yes, as a plug-in hybrid, it features an eDrive mode that allows for full-electric driving for short distances, perfect for quiet urban maneuvers.
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