Ferrari has taken the wraps off the new-for-2026 296 GT3 Evo today on the eve of the 2025 running of the Spa 24 Hours.
The update pack comes three years after the car was first presented at Spa in 2022. It builds on the experience the Italian marque has gained by competing around the world with the current iteration of the 296 GT3, winning almost 150 races, and crucially, from lessons learned in developing the platform for LMGT3 competition in the FIA WEC and ELMS.
After taking onboard feedback from customers, the changes made, Ferrari says, are “aimed at creating an even more competitive car in all conditions, while maintaining the concept of ‘modularity’ that has made the 296 GT3 a true benchmark, especially in terms of ease of maintenance and set-up.”
The V6 engine remains the same from the current 296 GT3. Still, the gearbox adopts a new gear ratio cascade, “optimised after analysing data collected during the car’s two years of use, to favour torque delivery at both low and high speeds.”
As for the aero package, changes have been made to make the car more predictable and stable in “all race situations”.
Ferrari’s engineers, utilising improved simulation techniques that combine wind tunnel testing with CFD work, focused on improving front vertical load stability when the 296 GT3 Evo is following other cars, and aero sensitivity.
The profiles of the splitter and front floor have been revised, and the expansion volumes and vortex generators have been optimised. The appendages on the front bumper have also been modified.
A further significant improvement has come from a thorough and careful review of the rear diffuser, which has been modified in terms of its expansion volumes and the number of channels.
The third element to undergo development was the front wheel arch louvres, developed in synergy with the front underbody to ensure clean air enters the rear air intakes, both in free air and while slipstreaming.
Cooling for the brakes and cockpit has also been improved (overall airflow to the front brakes has increased by more than 20% compared to the current model) with updated air intakes on the bonnet.
The steering pump benefits too from better and more effective cooling via the introduction of two Naca intakes in the underbody.
A new rear wing has also been developed. It includes a redesigned support structure and side panels that enable teams to make quick adjustments (as seen in LMGT3 competition) with a simple screw.
The rear-view mirrors have been adjusted as well, now facing inwards with a new angle for improved visibility.
Another carryover from the LMGT3-spec 296 is the rear wheel arch bodywork, which makes the car more accommodating for different tyre types.
The 296 GT3 Evo’s homologation process will be completed in time for the 2026 season, available as an upgrade kit for current customer teams.
For more information on the 296 GT3 Evo, read DSC’s interview with Ferrari’s Head of Endurance Programmes and Pista di Fiorano, Alessandra Todeschini, HERE >>>
Technical specs:
Engine
- Type F163CE, 6 cyl. V 120°, 4 valves per cylinder, 2992 cm3, GDI Turbo
- Bore/stroke: 88 x 82 mm
- Maximum power: approx. 600 hp* (447 kW) at 7250 rpm
- Maximum torque: approx. 710 Nm* at 5500 rpm
- * Subject to BoP
Gearbox
- Transverse sequential gearbox, 6 speeds
- E-clutch, electronic clutch actuator with steering wheel paddles
- Magnesium gearbox with integrated oil recovery tank
Chassis
- Wheelbase: 1726 mm front / 1710 mm rear
- Width: 2050 mm max (without mirrors)
- Wheelbase: 2660 mmDry weight: 1250 kg
- Front and rear suspension: double overlapping triangle, tubular steel suspension arms
- 5-way adjustable shock absorbers
- Wheels: front 12.5‘ x 18’, rear 13‘ x 18’
- Tyres: front 30/68/18, rear 31/71/18
- Brake discs: front Ø 400×36, rear 332×32
- Brake calipers: front 6 pistons, rear 4 pistons
- Brake pads: front 30 mm, rear 26.5 mm
