It’s astonishing to realize that three years have zoomed by since Ferrari first took the covers off the 296 GT3. This racing machine hasn’t just filled space on the grid—it’s dominated it. Together with the endurance-geared 296 LMGT3, this Ferrari family has racked up an enviable record: 140 victories, 405 podium finishes, and 56 pole positions in 343 races. As a constant contender in both GT3 competitions and the WEC, the 296 GT3 set a high benchmark. Now, Ferrari is ready to push the limits even further with the debut of a more advanced, faster, and refined evolution of their GT3 icon—introducing the 296 GT3 Evo.
Drawing directly from team feedback and detailed racing data amassed over three seasons, the 296 GT3 Evo brings a suite of refinements. Aerodynamics are at the forefront, with a completely revised front splitter and underfloor to deliver more stable downforce, while a new rear diffuser boosts airflow efficiency—all carefully crafted within GT3 rules. Enhanced wheel arch louvres promote cleaner airflow to rear intakes, and an easily adjustable rear wing now allows racers to fine-tune their setup quickly and confidently.
Sharper Aero, Superior Handling
The Evo’s aero advancements don’t stop there: two prominent bonnet intakes increase cooling airflow to the front brake ducts by more than 20% compared to its predecessor. Complementing these, new NACA underbody scoops keep critical systems including the steering and auxiliary components cooler—especially beneficial in grueling endurance events. Visually, the 296 GT3 Evo adopts design cues from the 296 LMGT3, bringing a cohesive modern look. Driver experience has also been a central focus of the overhaul.
All of these aerodynamic updates aren’t just for show—they enhance the car’s performance in turbulent air, such as when racing in a pack or battling in traffic. Ferrari didn’t forget about ride and control, either: the chassis now features improved suspension geometry and kinematics, helping reduce stress on components and heightening the connection between driver and machine. Remarkably, with all these updates, the 296 GT3 Evo maintains its featherweight status at just 1,250 kg—proving that more speed doesn’t always mean more weight. Explore more about this impressive engineering feat.
A Familiar Heart, Even More Potent
At its core, the Evo sticks with Ferrari’s potent 3.0-liter, 120-degree twin-turbo V6, still delivering a thrilling 600 hp and 710 Nm of torque. But even here, enhancements lie beneath the surface: the engine has been subtly optimized, and a reworked 6-speed sequential gearbox now features refined gear ratios. This delivers more immediate torque for quicker exits out of tight corners, all while preserving the top-end speed that Ferrari racers expect. Reliability, too, steps up a gear thanks to these drivetrain tweaks.
Inside, the 296 GT3 Evo maintains its focused, race-ready cabin, but with comfort improved for drivers—particularly with the addition of a second cooling fan for the air conditioning, a real advantage in endurance contests. Best of all, current Ferrari customer teams aren’t left behind. The Evo upgrade kit—comprising bodywork, rear wing, diffuser, splitter, and cooling improvements—can be retrofitted to existing 296 GT3 cars. Fans and teams alike can look forward to seeing the first 296 GT3 Evo racers hit the track during the 2026 season. Learn more about upgrading your Ferrari GT3.
