Ferrari 296 GTS convertible previewed in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: Earlier this year, the official distributor of Ferrari cars in Malaysia, Naza Italia, introduced the 296 GTB on the local shores. And now here comes its open top-version, the 296 GTS. It marks the Southeast Asian debut of the Berlinetta Spyder, unveiled globally three months back.

Naza Italia previewed the 296 GTS at the Esperienza Ferrari showcase currently underway at Sepang International Circuit. It will go on sale later this year at a price starting from RM 1.448 million (without insurance, taxes, and customisation options).

Let’s check out the key highlights of the latest Prancing Horse model -

• Ferrari 296 GTS is the brand's first V6 convertible for the road
• The 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 comes paired with a 166-hp electric motor. Combinedly, the system dishes out a maximum power of 830 hp and a peak torque of 740 Nm 

• The power is transmitted to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission mated to physical reverse gear
• The convertible hit the century sprint in just 2.9 seconds before attaining a top speed of over 330 kmph. The all-electric driving range stands at 25 km
• The car features a retractable hardtop, which takes just 14 seconds to retract or deploy at speeds of up to 45 kmph

• Design-wise, it remains identical to the 296 GTB with some subtle revisions to accommodate the opening roof. It includes a reworked rear deck with re-sculptured buttresses, a new window at the bottom of the engine cover, and a few modifications on the A- and B-pillars and sills for better torsional rigidity

• The cabin also looks identical to the coupe model with some minor changes made to the seats and central tunnel. It comes equipped with a fully digital instrument panel and an infotainment display on the passenger’s side
• An Assetto Fiorano package is also on offer with lightweight features and aero modifications
• The 296 GTS tips the scales at 1,540 kg

What are your views on this top-less Ferrari? Let us know in the comments.

Also read: Ferrari will unveil Purosangue SUV in September