Buying Tips for 296

24/25, clean car fax, serviced at Ferrari dealer, whatever your preference!

I personally think the exterior carbon has visual punch but was too expensive to spec new. Used it’s a steal.

Glad you got to experience the car. I keep saying it’s not just a little bit better. It’s a lot.

 

I think one important choice between 296s is the Assetto Fiorano package and the carbon seats. For some, they couldn't tolerate the stiffer ride.

If you carbon spec everything, engine bay, front trunk, side sills, rear diffuser, wheels I'd it's easily a very high 500K car almost 600K new. Too much as above poster said.

 

So the 22, 23 builds seem to throw more codes. As noted 24, 25 is a better bet. The carbon seats while beautiful to look at don't have much padding. Cars with an unusual build specification like Verde Hy-Kers (bright green) have a limited market but if it is something you like it may be priced under the market value of more conservative cars like red tan. Mileage is King but there are very low mileage 296 cars out there for a variety of reasons. Don't limit yourself to a local 296 if you see the perfect specification for you that is farther away. Happy hunting.

 

You’re right- the 296 is incredible in comparison to the 812/ F12 or anything else (I own an 812 GTS). I own a 2022 GTB AF- and it’s solid. I would not be afraid to buy any year- and if you do get a 2022 have the dealer sell you a two year extension for $6800. I am enamored with the 296. I just purchased a 2024 GTS this week.

Options- Carbon steering wheel, lifter on non AF cars- the rest is personal and people love carbon. There are some incredible deals out there. I missed the best one by a week. Boardwalk Ferrari has a 200 mile 2024 GTS for $150K off sticker of $550. It’s a rip. I just am not ready to buy a 3rd 296. LOL Good luck.

 

Before buying, I spoke to the service managers of four Ferrari dealers for recommendations on which years to avoid. Three of them said condition and service history were more important than year. The fourth said 2022 has slightly more software issues than later years.

The 296's power seats are better than the last Ferrari I tested but I went with the carbon racing seats because I use the car's cornering ability.

Front lifter, wireless charging, front and rear sensors, surround view and back radar are useful.

Carbon interior bits and colored dash and door inserts and leather headliner look great but are not deal-breakers.

I haven't listened to the stereo very much, for obvious reasons, but the JBL sound system seems middling.

I bought from a Ferrari dealer with CPO and additional warranty coverage.